Laikipia University successfully held its 6th Biennial International Conference from May 28th to 30th, 2025, under the theme “Research and Innovations: Navigating Global Challenges and Building Resilience.” The theme underscored the University’s ongoing commitment to addressing complex global issues through knowledge creation, collaborative engagement, and innovative solutions.
The conference was officially opened by Ms. Teresia Nyawira, a Principal Scientist at the National Commission for Science, Technology, and Innovation (NACOSTI), who was representing the Director-General of the National Commission. In her remarks, Ms. Nyawira lauded Laikipia University for its continued leadership in creating a platform for intellectual exchange, interdisciplinary dialogue, and collaborative problem-solving, all of which are essential for national and global advancement.
In his welcoming remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Kibett Rotich, PhD, expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, all keynote speakers, and all participants of the 6th International Biennial Conference. He reaffirmed Laikipia University's commitment to academic and research excellence anchored in innovation and sustainability. Highlighting the conference theme, Prof. Rotich emphasized the value of interdisciplinary dialogue in tackling global challenges.
Sub-Themes of the Conference
Over three dynamic days, the conference featured inspiring and insightful discussions across ten thematic areas:
- Digital, Creative, and Cross-Cultural Communication
- Machine Learning and Data Science
- Global Health for Equity, Sustainability, and Resilience
- Nanotechnology and Material Science
- Education and Knowledge Transfer
- Governance and Policy Innovation for Social Justice and Equity
- Climate-Smart Agriculture and Environmental Sustainability
- Leveraging Indigenous Knowledge
- Global Economic Transformation for Sustainable Business Practices
- Innovating Sports for Global Impact
The conference's thematic areas were designed to stimulate meaningful discourse that bridges the gap between academia and industry, with a focus on contributing directly to the formulation of public policy.
The event attracted over 100 research papers, which were presented across four parallel breakout sessions each day. Notably, the conference featured strong representation from postgraduate students, whose contributions enriched the depth and diversity of the discussions.
Keynote Highlights
Professor Stephen Onyango Odebero, PhD, a distinguished Professor of Education Planning at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), Kenya, and the Acting Principal of MMUST TVET College, delivered a compelling keynote address titled "Innovate to Elevate: Driving National Transformation through Research and Quality Education in Kenya."
In his address, Prof. Odebero emphasized the pivotal role of higher education in national development. He called on universities to reposition themselves as engines of societal transformation by:
- Designing academic programmes that directly address real-world challenges
- Enhancing and adapting existing technologies to foster innovation
- Converting academic research into scalable, entrepreneurial solutions
- Integrating practical, competency-based training into curricula to better equip learners for the demands of the modern workforce
His message underscored the urgent need for a more dynamic, responsive, and impact-driven higher education sector in Kenya.
Dr. Eliud Kipchoge, EHG, widely celebrated as the greatest marathoner of all time and world-renowned for his inspirational mantra “No human is limited”, delivered a powerful keynote address titled "Innovating Sports for Global Impact."
In his address, Dr. Kipchoge offered a deeply reflective and motivational perspective on the pursuit of personal excellence and its potential to have a far-reaching global impact. His insights highlighted the foundational principles that drive meaningful innovation, including:
- Innovation begins with unwavering belief and inner conviction
- Resilience is defined by persistence in the face of adversity
- Groundbreaking innovation demands boldness and a willingness to challenge convention
- Courage and self-belief serve as essential catalysts for sustained momentum and success
Dr. Kipchoge’s message resonated as a call to harness the transformative power of sports and individual potential to effect change on a global scale.
Dr. Frank Sawanga Ndakala, PhD, a distinguished academician, administrator, health professional, and researcher, currently serves as Deputy Director at the State Department for Higher Education and Research (SDHE&R) within Kenya’s Ministry of Education. He is also a Council Member of Laikipia University.
Dr. Ndakala delivered a compelling keynote address titled "Research and Innovation: Pathway for Addressing Global Challenges." In his thought-provoking presentation, he examined the transformative role of research and innovation in tackling pressing global issues. He underscored the need for a strategic and philosophical approach to innovation, highlighting the importance of:
- Continuously testing and refining existing systems
- Avoiding outdated and inefficient institutional structures
- Allowing philosophical inquiry to inform innovation pathways
- Challenging conventional thinking to foster breakthrough ideas
- Showcasing and scaling innovations on global platforms
Dr. Ndakala’s keynote called for a bold reimagining of the role of research in shaping sustainable solutions for the world’s most critical challenges.
Dr. Josey Kamanda, PhD, is an accomplished agricultural scientist and researcher with expertise in agrifood innovation systems, agricultural development, and value chain coordination. He is affiliated with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), where he serves as a Researcher in Innovation Scaling and Agribusiness Acceleration.
Delivering a keynote address titled "Research and Innovation: Pathway for Addressing Global Challenges," Dr. Kamanda presented an insightful and impactful session focused on system-based approaches to agricultural innovation. He underscored the need for research and innovation efforts to be grounded in practical solutions that enhance food production, improve distribution systems, and ensure equitable access to food across Africa.
His compelling call to action resonated with the audience: “Innovation must be rooted in solving the real issues of food systems.”
Mr. Jesse Ndegwa, Chair of the Laikipia University Alumni Association, shared strategic insights on harnessing the power of alumni networks as catalysts for sustainable innovation.
In his address, he emphasized the critical role alumni can play in advancing institutional and national innovation agendas. Key focus areas included:
- Fostering strategic, cross-disciplinary partnerships
- Expanding support mechanisms for student innovators
- Leading advocacy and public awareness initiatives
- Creating platforms to connect students with mentors and potential investors
- Actively contributing to the shaping of national innovation policies
Mr. Ndegwa underscored the potential of a well-engaged alumni community to drive long-term impact through collaboration, mentorship, and policy influence.
Closing Remarks
The conference was officially closed by Prof. Patience Mshenga, PhD, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration and Planning. She extended her heartfelt appreciation to all keynote speakers, panelists, presenters, exhibitors, and participants for their invaluable contributions to the event's success. Prof. Mshenga encouraged attendees to build on the momentum generated during the conference and to translate the rich insights shared into tangible, impactful outcomes.
The event was graced by members of the University Council, led by Dr. Lemein Korei, PhD, alongside the University Management Board, Senate Members, Laikipia University staff and students, and participants from other institutions in Kenya and across the world, including staff and students from Egerton University.
Through such collaborative engagements, Laikipia University continues to position itself as a hub of scholarly excellence, innovation, and global impact. The 6th Biennial International Conference marks a significant milestone in the University’s ongoing commitment to advancing knowledge-driven development for a resilient and sustainable future.