Leadership Messages

Inspiring words from our visionary leaders driving innovation in higher education

Leadership Messages

Message from the VC & CEO

Prof. Isaiah I.C. Wakindiki, PhD., EBS.
Professor of Soil Science
VICE CHANCELLOR & CEO

Welcome to the 5th KCA University Innovation Week and Industry Summit 2026. This flagship platform directly advances our vision to be an innovation-driven, globally competitive business and technology university, promoting integrity, diversity, and teamwork. In an era of rapid global change, higher education must demonstrate clear thought leadership by harnessing the power of knowledge creation to generate sustainable, practical solutions for societal challenges.

Anchored on Strategic Pillar 2 of our 2024–2028 Strategic Plan: Research, Entrepreneurship, and Commercialisation, KCA University continues to strengthen a vibrant ecosystem that supports intellectual property development, startup formation, and industry collaboration. Our commitment to translating research into market-ready solutions is demonstrated by over KES 40M+ in research and
innovation grants secured, 25+ patent applications filed, and 8 startups established in recent years. We believe that innovation thrives when knowledge, skills, capital, technology, policy, and market opportunities are deliberately connected.

Our theme, Learn! Lead! Transform!, calls on all stakeholders to redefine the role of university-driven enterprise. To Learn is to gain practical skills, industry insights, and knowledge from researchers and sector leaders. To Lead demands developing the courage, capability, and cross-sector partnerships needed to solve real challenges. 

To Transform means turning ideas, research, and talent into scalable solutions, sustainable enterprises, and measurable impact. Across our summit tracks, covering digital transformation, enterprise growth, the creative economy, and technical skills, we invite researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and students to collaborate with us. Collaboration is critical in bridging academia and industry, accelerating technology transfer, and shaping a sustainable future.

Welcome Remarks (DVC-RIO)

Prof. Vincent O. Onywera, PhD., MSMSK, MACSM
Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Innovation & Outreach and Professor of Exercise and Sports Science

The Division of Research, Innovation and Outreach is pleased to spearhead the planning and delivery of the 5th KCA University Innovation Week and Industry Summit 2026. Building on the growth and achievements of the previous editions, this year’s Summit provides an important platform for connecting knowledge, talent and innovation with industry, markets and opportunities that create meaningful societal and economic impact.

Guided by the theme Learn! Lead! Transform!, the 2026 Summit underscores the importance of practical learning, innovation leadership and the transformation of ideas and research into solutions that respond to industry and societal needs. The programme will feature innovation exhibitions, industry-led forums, masterclasses, innovation challenges, pitch competitions, mentorship sessions, research-to-market engagements, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen commercialisation, enterprise development, skills enhancement, and
sustainable partnerships.

We therefore warmly invite all stakeholders, within and beyond KCA University, to actively participate in this transformative event by sharing knowledge, building strategic partnerships, and co-creating innovative solutions that deliver lasting economic and social value. Together, we can Learn, Lead, and Transform for a more innovative and prosperous future.

Speakers

Chief Guest

Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak
Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation.

Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak is the immediate former Director for the Division for Africa, at the International Atomic Energy Agency. Under his supervision, he facilitates IAEA technical cooperation, in several thematic areas; Food and Agriculture, Health and Nutrition, Industrial application and Radiation Technology, Water and Environment, Energy planning and nuclear power, nuclear knowledge development and Management, Safety to 48 countries in Africa.

Abdulrazak is former CEO, Kenya National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (2008-2014). He has over 30 years working experience as Professor and administrator at university, leader and advisor on matters related to Science Technology and Innovation. He served as Vice-Chancellor of Umma University and Deputy VC at Egerton University, Former Governor of ICGEB, Ex Chair of Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Board member of Kenya Medical Research Institute, member of the Kenya National Economic Social Council.

He is a Fellow of the World Academy of Sciences, the African Academy of Sciences Japan Society for the Promotion of Sciences. He has published widely in international journals, scientific conference and symposium proceedings. His Undergraduate studies were at Egerton University, Kenya, his MSc and PhD Agricultural Sciences, from University of Aberdeen, UK and his Post Doctorate from Shimane University, Japan.

Key Note Speaker

Mr. Lee Cheong-geun
Founder and CEO, SHOEALLS Co., Ltd. (Republic of Korea)

Mr. Lee Cheong-geun is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SHOEALLS Co., Ltd., a Korean company recognized globally for developing the World’s No. 1 AI Smart Functional Shoes—innovative footwear that integrates science and technology to promote musculoskeletal health and overall well-being.

A pioneer in functional shoe technology, Mr. Lee has led SHOEALLS to achieve remarkable international success, winning Gold and Special Awards at the Seoul, Swiss, German, and U.S. International Invention Exhibitions. His company’s products hold GMP, FDA, and CE certifications, reflecting their quality and global competitiveness.

Mr. Lee holds an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from Gimcheon University, Korea, in recognition of his outstanding entrepreneurial and innovative contributions. Featured widely in media, including the MBN success documentary “The Best,” he continues to champion the vision of creating healthy and happy functional shoes for the world, guided by the belief that “the foot is the second heart.”

Key Note Speaker

Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak

Former Director for the Division for Africa, at the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Mr. Lee Cheong-geun

Founder and CEO, SHOEALLS Co., Ltd. (Republic of Korea)

Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak

Position: Former Director for the Division for Africa, at the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Categories: Key Note Speaker
Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak is the immediate former Director for the Division for Africa, at the International Atomic Energy Agency. Under his supervision, he facilitates IAEA technical cooperation, in several thematic areas; Food and Agriculture, Health and Nutrition, Industrial application and Radiation Technology, Water and Environment, Energy planning and nuclear power, nuclear knowledge development and Management, Safety to 48 countries in Africa.
Abdulrazak is former CEO, Kenya National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (2008-2014). He has over 30 years working experience as Professor and administrator at university, leader and advisor on matters related to Science Technology and Innovation. He served as Vice-Chancellor of Umma University and Deputy VC at Egerton University, Former Governor of ICGEB, Ex Chair of Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Board member of Kenya Medical Research Institute, member of the Kenya National Economic Social Council.
He is a Fellow of the World Academy of Sciences, the African Academy of Sciences Japan Society for the Promotion of Sciences. He has published widely in international journals, scientific conference and symposium proceedings. His Undergraduate studies were at Egerton University, Kenya, his MSc and PhD Agricultural Sciences, from University of Aberdeen, UK and his Post Doctorate from Shimane University, Japan.

Mr. Lee Cheong-geun

Position: Founder and CEO, SHOEALLS Co., Ltd. (Republic of Korea)
Categories: Key Note Speaker

Mr. Lee Cheong-geun is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SHOEALLS Co., Ltd., a Korean company recognized globally for developing the World’s No. 1 AI Smart Functional Shoes—innovative footwear that integrates science and technology to promote musculoskeletal health and overall well-being.

A pioneer in functional shoe technology, Mr. Lee has led SHOEALLS to achieve remarkable international success, winning Gold and Special Awards at the Seoul, Swiss, German, and U.S. International Invention Exhibitions. His company’s products hold GMP, FDA, and CE certifications, reflecting their quality and global competitiveness.

Mr. Lee holds an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from Gimcheon University, Korea, in recognition of his outstanding entrepreneurial and innovative contributions. Featured widely in media, including the MBN success documentary “The Best,” he continues to champion the vision of creating healthy and happy functional shoes for the world, guided by the belief that “the foot is the second heart.”

 

Research & Innovation Growth

KCA University continues to strengthen an innovation ecosystem that supports knowledge creation,
intellectual property development, startup formation, industry collaboration and the translation of ideas
into practical solutions

Research & Innovation Growth

KCA University continues to strengthen an innovation ecosystem that supports knowledge creation,
intellectual property development, startup formation, industry collaboration and the translation of ideas
into practical solutions

13, 000+

Innovation Week Participants in 2025

Physical and virtual participation

20+

Universities and TVETs

Represented at Innovation Week 2025.

KES 40M+

Research & Innovation Grants

Secured over the last three years.

8

Startups established and supported

By KCA University innovators in the last three years

25+

Patent applications filed

Filed over the last years.

16

Corporate exhibitors

Participated in innovation week 2025.

40+

Ecosystem partners engaged.

Across innovation and enterprise activities.

1

Student Patent awarded

A milestone in student-led innovation and intellectual property.

Learn!

Gain knowledge, practical skills and industry insight from researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and sector leaders.

Lead!

Develop the courage, capability and partnerships required to solve real challenges and create new opportunities.

Transform!

Convert ideas, research and talent into scalable solutions, sustainable enterprises and measurable impact.

Introduction and Rationale

Introduction & Rationale

KCA University will host the 5th Innovation Week and Industry Summit 2026 from 27th to 29th October 2026 at the Main Campus, Ruaraka. The Summit is a flagship platform bringing together students, faculty, researchers, startups, SMEs, corporates, industry leaders, policymakers, investors, development partners and innovation ecosystem actors. 

The 2026 edition will provide opportunities for learning, networking, showcasing innovations, building partnerships and accelerating the transition of ideas and research into practical, market-ready solutions. It will also give industry and ecosystem partners access to emerging talent, applied research, early-stage ventures and opportunities for co-creation. 

The Summit responds to the need for stronger collaboration between universities and industry, greater support for entrepreneurship and intellectual property, improved pathways for research commercialisation and more practical preparation of students for the future of work. It recognises that innovation grows when knowledge, skills, capital, technology, policy and market opportunities are deliberately connected. 

Through the theme Learn! Lead! Transform!, KCA University invites participants to build knowledge, take responsibility for innovation leadership and translate ideas into solutions that generate sustainable economic and social value.

Objectives and Participation Pathways

KCA University will host the 5th Innovation Week and Industry Summit 2026 from 27th to 29th October 2026 at the Main Campus, Ruaraka. The Summit is a flagship platform bringing together students, faculty, researchers, startups, SMEs, corporates, industry leaders, policymakers, investors, development partners and innovation ecosystem actors. 

The 2026 edition will provide opportunities for learning, networking, showcasing innovations, building partnerships and accelerating the transition of ideas and research into practical, market-ready solutions. It will also give industry and ecosystem partners access to emerging talent, applied research, early-stage ventures and opportunities for co-creation. 

The Summit responds to the need for stronger collaboration between universities and industry, greater support for entrepreneurship and intellectual property, improved pathways for research commercialisation and more practical preparation of students for the future of work. It recognises that innovation grows when knowledge, skills, capital, technology, policy and market opportunities are deliberately connected. 

Through the theme Learn! Lead! Transform!, KCA University invites participants to build knowledge, take responsibility for innovation leadership and translate ideas into solutions that generate sustainable economic and social value.

Objectives and Participation Pathways

Attend

Students, professionals, researchers, policymakers and members of the public can attend keynote sessions, thematic forums, masterclasses, exhibitions and networking engagements.

Partner

Industry, government, development partners and innovation organisations can host forums, provide mentors, demonstrate technologies, support research and create opportunities for talent and market access.

Exhibit

Student teams, faculty projects, startups, SMEs, corporates, universities, TVETs, government agencies and ecosystem organisations can showcase innovations, products, services and research outputs.

Sponsor

Organisations can support the Summit, innovation challenges, awards, masterclasses, exhibitions and commercialisation activities while gaining targeted brand visibility and engagement opportunities.

Our Exhibitors Thematic Areas & Sub-Themes

Explore our comprehensive focus areas designed to address contemporary challenges and drive innovation

Business & Entrepreneurship

  • Startup Incubation & Acceleration
  • Digital Marketing & E-commerce
  • Supply Chain Innovation
  • Business Model Innovation
  • Investment & Venture Capital
  • Corporate Social Responsibility

Sustainability & Environment

  • Renewable Energy Solutions
  • Climate Change Mitigation
  • Waste Management & Circular Economy
  • Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security
  • Water Conservation & Management
  • Green Building & Eco-Architecture
  • Green Building & Eco-Architecture

Social Innovation

  • Community Development Programs
  • Social Entrepreneurship
  • Education Technology (EdTech)
  • Financial Inclusion & FinTech
  • Gender Equality & Women Empowerment
  • Youth Development & Mentorship

Energy & Infrastructure

  • Smart Grid Technology
  • Energy Storage Solutions
  • Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
  • Solar & Wind Energy Systems
  • Energy Efficiency in Buildings
  • Rural Electrification Projects

Business & Entrepreneurship

  • Renewable Energy Solutions
  • Climate Change Mitigation
  • Waste Management & Circular Economy
  • Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security
  • Water Conservation & Management
  • Green Building & Eco-Architecture

Global Challenges

  • Pandemic Preparedness & Response
  • Food Security & Nutrition
  • Urban Planning & Smart Cities
  • Migration & Refugee Support
  • Disaster Risk Reduction
  • International Cooperation & Diplomacy

Sponsorship Packages & Incentives

Partner with us to drive innovation and make a lasting impact on Africa's future

Category Participation Fees

Flexible pricing options designed to make innovation accessible to everyone

Individual Participant

Ksh.2,500

Full access to all plenary sessions, keynote addresses, workshops, panel discussions, and certificate of participation.

Register Now

TVETs / SMEs / CBOs

Ksh. 15,000

3-day exhibition space, recognition in summit program, access to workshops and networking opportunities.

Register Now

Universities

Ksh. 30,000


3-day exhibition space, recognition in summit program, access to workshops and networking opportunities.

Register Now

County Governments

Ksh.50,000

3-day exhibition space (bring your own tent), recognition in summit program, brand visibility at the venue, access to key sessions and matchmaking forums.

Register Now

Early Bird Discount

10% off for registrations before December 31, 2024

Multi-Year Partnership

15% discount for 3-year sponsorship commitment

Local Business Support

Special rates for Kenyan SMEs and startups

Academic Institution

Reduced rates for universities and research centers

Event Impact Join Our Growing Community

Be part of a vibrant gathering of innovators, professionals, and students driving the future of technology.

Students
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Sponsors
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Speakers
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Exhibitors
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Event Schedule Three Days of Innovation

Explore our comprehensive schedule filled with keynotes, workshops, and networking opportunities.

8.30 -90.30 AM

Arrival and registration

Sylvia Mbugua

Arrival and Registration

9.30 - 9.40 AM

Anthem and Prayers

DR

9.40 - 9.40 AM

Welcoming Remarks by Dean School of Technology

Dr. Simon Mwendia

01.30 - 02.30 PM

Opening Remarks by the DVC Academics & Student Affairs

Prof. Joshua G. Bagaka's

9:50 – 10:20 AM

Keynote by Guest Speaker - South Africa High

H.E. Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu

10:20 – 10:40AM

EXHIBITIONS TOUR

8:30 – 9:30 AM

Arrival and registration

8:30 – 9:30 AM

Anthem and Prayers

9:35 – 9:40 AM

Welcoming Remarks by Dean School of Education, Arts and Social Sciences

Dr. Priscilla Gachigi

9:40 – 9:50 AM

Opening Remarks by the DVC Finance, Planning and Development

Prof. Damiannah M. Kieti Manono

9:50 – 10:20 AM

Keynote by Guest Speaker –CEO Kenya Films Commission

Timothy Odhiambo Owase

10:20 – 10:40 AM

09.00 - 11.30 AM Workshop

Marketing Matters!

Prof. Isaiah I.C. Wakindiki, PhD.

9.30 - 10.30 AM Seminar

Reinventing Experiences

DR

10.30 - 11.30 AM Workshop

Cultures of Creativity

Prof. Vincent Onywera, PhD

12.30 - 01.30 PM Workshop

Human Centered Design

Prof. Damiannah M. Kieti Manono

Our Partners Trusted Collaborators & Sponsors

Our Exhibitors Showcasing Innovation

Discover cutting-edge technologies and solutions from our exhibitors at the Innovation Expo.

Our Exhibitors Event Highlights

Relive the excitement from our previous innovation weeks and see what makes our events special.

 

5 to 7 June 2026, Waterfront Hotel, London

DIGITAL THINKERS MEET UP

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Payment Options

M-Pesa

Pay Bill: 522522, Account: KCA Innovation 2025

Bank Transfer

KCA University Account,

Credit/Debit Card

Secure online payment through our porta

Cash Payment

At KCA University Finance Office

For group registrations or payment assistance, contact us at:

Our Venue Visit KCA University

Relive the excitement from our previous innovation weeks and see what makes our events special.

 

Ready to Innovate?

Join us for three unforgettable days of learning, networking, and innovation at KCA University.