The bustling grounds of KCA University witnessed an influx of creative minds and industry experts at the 2nd annual Innovation Week and Industry Summit.
The event, held under the theme “Leveraging on Academia-Industry Linkages to Foster Sustainable Innovation,” garnered praise for its dynamic atmosphere and promising discussions, emphasizing the potential of Kenya’s burgeoning innovation ecosystem.
The distinguished presence of Prof. Olive Mugenda, KCA University Chancellor and chairperson of the board of directors at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital, (KUTRRH), on the inaugural day, set the tone for the impactful summit.
Addressing the eager participants, Prof. Mugenda underscored the significance of fostering collaborations that yield groundbreaking solutions to tackle the contemporary socio-economic challenges. She emphasized the pivotal role of innovators, dreamers, and relentless optimists in shaping a better world throughout history.
“We need to facilitate enhanced collaborations between higher education institutions and industry to promote innovations and create opportunities for the youthful population,” asserted Prof. Mugenda. She highlighted the imperative of bridging the gap between innovative students and industry players, citing the benefits of industrial exposure in refining and commercializing innovative ideas.
Day two of the event witnessed the presence of Geoffrey Kaituko, the Principal Secretary of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs. Kaituko, addressing the attendees, highlighted the prevalent challenges in fostering effective collaboration between academia, government, and industry.
He stressed the necessity of cultivating an ecosystem that nurtures development and bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Kaituko urged universities to devise robust frameworks supporting student innovations and the commercialization of research findings, with a strong focus on solutions addressing societal needs and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
On the third day, Nancy Matimu, a distinguished member of the KCA University Council and Fintech Innovation Director, and Business Lead at Serrari Group, delivered an insightful address on Innovations in the Fintech Industry.
Matimu challenged innovators to create solutions enabling individuals to access a store of value that outperforms the global inflation rate.
The event also featured an array of notable guest presenters, including Gladys Njiru, Group CEO of Datasec-Africa, representatives from IPACK, and Rose Tinderet, Director of Member Value and Customer Experience at the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya, among many others.
The event’s success was further amplified by the diverse array of exhibitors from various sectors of the economy, showcasing their innovative endeavors.
Key corporate sponsors, including KRA, Safaricom, the Anti-Counterfeit Authority of Kenya (CAA), the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA), HUAWEI, British Council, and Serari Group, played an instrumental role in making the summit a resounding triumph.
As the curtains closed on the KCA University’s 2nd Innovation Week and Industry Summit, the echoes of collaborative spirit and a collective commitment to driving sustainable innovation reverberated through the hearts and minds of all attendees.
With the promise of a brighter and more interconnected future, the event marked a significant milestone in the journey towards a more innovative and prosperous Kenya.