Laikipia University's Directorate of Research, Gender, and Human Rights organized a three-day Grant Proposal Writing Training workshop held between 23rd-25th February 2026. The primary objective was to enhance the capacity of academic staff and early career researchers.
The guests initiated their visit with a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor. Subsequently, the deans of the various schools introduced their respective members, who collectively expressed their enthusiasm for the training. Dr. Barnabas Kurgat, Director of Research, Human Rights and Gender, underscored the aspiration to execute impactful projects that address societal challenges and contribute to the University's resource mobilization strategies.
This imperative served as the motivation for organizing the three-day workshop. The Director then introduced the facilitators: Dr. Mark Korir, an Adjunct Professor in Agricultural Economics from the Africa Economic Research Consortium; Dr. Annette, specializing in Sociology and Sustainable Agriculture and an environmental researcher; and Professor Hesborn Wao, a Professor of Education.
In his welcoming remarks, Professor John Kanjogu, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Research and Student Affairs, conveyed his satisfaction that this engagement was finally taking place. He anticipated that this initiative would significantly benefit the University's academic staff, thereby contributing to the national development mandate. Recognizing that the University has yet to fully realize its potential in securing funded proposals, the training aims to bridge this gap and facilitate staff progression. The division is dedicated to supporting internal research systems, including the recognition and rewarding of staff who successfully obtain grants.
Participants were challenged to depart from the workshop with a concept ready for submission. Professor Kanjogu also delivered the Vice Chancellor's speech and officially inaugurated the workshop. While the University has observed an increase in research grants compared to previous years, this remains below its academic potential. It is expected that these engagements with reputable research institutions will extend beyond training to foster joint proposal development. This workshop is specifically designed to generate fundable concepts. The three-day activities were highly engaging and interactive. Professor Patience Mshenga, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, Finance, and Planning, was also in attendance.