Pressure Mounts on Higher Learning Institutions to Prioritize Research on Major Health Issues Impacting Communities.
With communities increasingly hit by dangerous diseases and rising health issues, institutions of higher learning have been challenged to rethink research priorities to tackle pressing health challenges and improve the quality of life for Kenyans.
Experts say there is a growing need for research that goes beyond theory and directly addresses real-life problems, particularly in the health sector, to ensure communities benefit from practical and sustainable solutions.
Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology during a two-day Scientific, Technological, and Industrialisation Conference, Archer Arina, Director of Technical Training at the Ministry of Education, said that universities, in collaboration with medical experts from healthcare systems, have the potential to discover and provide treatments for diseases such as cancer and other life-threatening conditions, saving Kenyans from spending huge sums seeking care abroad.
Arina added that researchers have no reason to fail in advancing their work and providing the government with better advice on handling health-related issues, ranging from nutrition to improved livelihoods, noting that the government has provided funding for research and that they are well-positioned to offer informed guidance.
He also said that other agencies such as KCB Bank and Co-operative Bank of Kenya are willing to fund university systems and support the transformation of research findings into production by providing necessary resources.
His sentiments were echoed by Dr James Micah Osando, the council chair at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, who said the institution has set aside funds for research, alongside additional support from donors, to ensure projects run smoothly, noting that the university currently has several ongoing research projects.
He also added that the institution is making strong efforts in developing important innovations, with a key focus on moving science and research from laboratories to the market.
On his part, Prof. Robert Kinyua, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, said research requires significant funding and often depends on external organisations, noting that conferences provide an opportunity to engage with industry players, discuss key issues, and collaborate, while emphasizing the university’s commitment to conducting high-quality research.
The conference held under the theme “Transforming Livelihoods Through Training, Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development,” brought together government officials, international experts, researchers, and industry practitioners to deliberate on sustainable development solutions through training, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
