Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) officially launched its much-anticipated Innovations Week today, bringing together students, staff, and innovators from a wide range of institutions to showcase creative solutions to some of society's most pressing challenges.
The event, which aims to foster collaboration and creativity, is set to provide a platform for new ideas and technological advancements that could have significant real-world applications.
The event was formally opened by Mr. Bongo Ngoseywi, the County Director of the Department of Gender, Culture, and Social Development in Vihiga County. In his address, Ngoseywi emphasized the critical role of innovation in addressing current societal issues. He urged the participants to align their work with the needs of the community and highlighted the importance of collaboration with industry partners.
"Collaboration with industry is vital to ensuring that innovations translate into practical solutions for our community," Ngoseywi said.
The opening ceremony also featured remarks from Prof. Thomas Kipkurgat, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Administration, Finance, Planning, and Development, who represented the Acting Vice Chancellor of KAFU, Prof. Peter Mwita.
Prof. Kipkurgat reaffirmed the university's commitment to advancing innovation, particularly in science, technology, and research as per the vision of the university.
"As part of our strategic plan, we are dedicated to enhancing innovation and building a culture of critical thinking, research, and creativity at KAFU. We are committed to supporting all our students in their innovative endeavors," Prof. Kipkurgat said.
Prof. Julius Kipkemboi, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Student Affairs & Research, also addressed the attendees, encouraging innovators to protect their intellectual property.
He highlighted the importance of patenting creations to safeguard against theft, noting that the university had recently collaborated with the Kenya Intellectual Property Institute to train students and staff on intellectual property rights.
"Innovation must be protected, and we have many opportunities to do so," said Prof. Kipkemboi. "It’s crucial that our innovations are shielded from theft."
The event featured 27 exhibitors from a variety of institutions, including KAFU, Friends National Polytechnic Kaimosi, Sigalagala National Polytechnic, MMUST, and local high schools such as Goibei Girls High School, Kaimosi Boys High School, Kaimosi Girls High School, and Imusudzu High School. The wide array of innovations on display spanned fields such as Artificial Intelligence, renewable energy, agriculture, and information technology.
Some notable exhibits included robotics, 3D printing, bio-alkenal gel cooking fuel, mosquito-repellent candles, an app for forest ecosystem conservation, mobile banking systems, online voting systems, and even a zipped jacket prototype. These innovations reflect the diverse range of ideas and technologies that have the potential to improve everyday life.
The KAFU band provided an energetic performance, adding to the lively atmosphere of the event and delighting visitors as they explored the exhibits. Innovations Week has quickly become a platform for collaboration and networking, bringing together diverse stakeholders eager to explore new ideas and build partnerships.
As the event progresses, KAFU’s Innovations Week stands as a testament to the university’s ongoing commitment to nurturing creativity, research, and practical solutions that address the needs of the community. It is clear that Kaimosi Friends University is taking bold steps toward shaping the next generation of innovators who will drive change both locally and globally.
With such a diverse array of innovations and ideas on display, it’s evident that Innovations Week is a crucial step in advancing the spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship among the youth of Vihiga County and beyond.
