The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi (UoN), Prof. Stephen Kiama, has urged the government to tap into research projects done by undergraduate students in the country.
Speaking during the varsity’s 70th graduation ceremony, he challenged the government to allocate resources for research and use it to solve problems affecting the nation.
“I am also hopeful that, in the not-too-distant future, the Ministry of Education will review its policies and provide for how the country can benefit from research carried out by postgraduate students,” he said.
Prof. Kiama said that researchers are a resource that needs to be harnessed, adding that most research projects at the moment are privately financed through personal resources.
“There is a need to institute a funding mechanism that will bring coherence and dovetail research into targeted thematic areas. We need not look far regarding how to get the funds; an act of parliament, the Science, Technology, and Innovation Act provides for 2% of GDP to be allocated to the National Research Fund to support research,” he said.
The University’s acting Chancellor and Chair of the Council, Prof. Amukowa Anangwe congratulated all the 5,744 graduates and said, “I urge you to go out into the world and become problem solvers, addressing the socio-economic issues that plague our nation. It is only through your effort and dedication that we can truly grow as individuals and as a community.”
State House Comptroller Katoo Ole Metito and CEO of the Privatization Commission Joseph Kosgey were among those who graduated with a Ph.D. Degree.
Also in attendance was Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu.
By Amos Kerich
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