Prof. Simon Gicharu fetes University Research team
The Chairman Board of Directors (BoD) in recognition of the progress the University has made in Research & Development met thirty active researchers at the University led by Prof. Francis W. Muregi, the Director Research, Grants & Endowment Directorate. The Chairman in his remarks underlined the commitment of the University Management and BoD in investing internal resources to the University Research and Innovation agenda. He further reiterated his commitment that the University will do whatever it takes to ensure that the research capacity is built and the tempo already set is maintained.
MKU Chairman Board of Directors Prof. Simon Gicharu, staff, and PhD students pose for a photo during a luncheon at Utalii Hotel, Nairobi
While appreciating the researchers, he paraphrased President J.F. Kennedy’s famous quote “Ask not what MKU can do for you, but what you can do for MKU”. Also present was the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic & Research Affairs, Dr. Bibianne Waiganjo-Aidi who indicated that to date, the University has supported; close to 200 persons to attend local and international conferences; 51 papers in peer-reviewed journals as well as capacity building workshops for the staff and students. The University has already offered seed-funds of close to KShs 7 million in the last three years for research and innovation projects. On external grants, Dr. Aidi noted that the University is currently managing grants worth Kshs. 200 million and is also awaiting to receive grants worth up to Kshs. 148 million from National Research Fund (NRF).
Prof. Gicharu also recognized partners and collaborators who have continued to support the University research efforts. Prof. Bernard Boyo (Daystar University) and Prof. Peter Ngure (CARTA, APHRC) were recognized for their contribution in a recently funded project by the Templeton World Charity Foundation. The two received letters of recognition and a cash token from the University. Prof. Muregi received a Certificate of Leadership Excellence for his efforts in building research teams. Other staff members with research projects were also appreciated.
