Machakos University Leads Global Conversations on the 5th Industrial Revolution

Machakos University successfully hosted its 7th International Conference on 18th and 19th June 2026 under the theme, “Leveraging the 5th Industrial Revolution in Research and Technology for Sustainable Development.” The landmark two-day conference brought together scholars, researchers, innovators, policymakers, industry experts, students, and development partners from Kenya, the United States of America, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, and other countries to explore how research, innovation, and technology can accelerate sustainable development and transform societies.

The conference was officially opened by the Chief Guest, Prof. Emeritus Ratemo Michieka, following welcoming remarks by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joyce Agalo. In her address, Prof. Agalo welcomed participants and acknowledged Prof. Michieka’s outstanding contribution to higher education, research, innovation, and national development. Prof. Agalo highlighted the relevance of the conference theme and sub-themes, reaffirming the University’s commitment to advancing research and innovation that address contemporary societal challenges. She noted that the conference attracted an impressive 125 abstracts from researchers and scholars across the globe, reflecting the growing significance of the Fifth Industrial Revolution in shaping the future of humanity. She encouraged participants to engage actively, think boldly, and collaborate widely in harnessing emerging technologies to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for communities, nations, and the world.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Michieka emphasized the importance of quality research, academic excellence, and innovation in driving sustainable development and transforming higher education. He challenged universities and researchers to embrace emerging technologies and interdisciplinary collaboration to address both local and global challenges effectively.

Delegates participated in dynamic thematic sessions focusing on:

• Business, Entrepreneurship, Employability and Economic Resilience
• Governance and Institutional Transformation
• Youth, Communities, Language, Culture and Technology
• Research, Science and Technology Transfer for Sustainable Development
• Technology for Environmental Sustainability, Food Systems and One Health
• Transformative Learning and Pedagogy

The sessions provided a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, networking, collaboration, and the sharing of innovative solutions to contemporary development challenges.

During the closing ceremony, the Conference Chair Prof. Mugendi M’Riitha presented a comprehensive overview of the conference deliberations, highlighting the transformative potential of the Fifth Industrial Revolution. Drawing from African wisdom, he inspired participants to embrace collaboration, critical thinking, and collective responsibility in advancing research and innovation.

Representing the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Linkages), Prof. James Muola, Prof. David Mulwa noted that the conference themes were timely, impactful, and aligned with efforts to improve quality of life through research-driven solutions. In her closing remarks, Prof. Agalo expressed gratitude to the Chairman of Council, Dr. Peter Maangi Mitiambo, the University Management Board, keynote speakers, researchers, sponsors, partners, staff, students, presenters, reviewers, session chairs, and the organizing committee for their invaluable contributions to the success of the conference.

“Together, we create our own sustainable futures. Research must move beyond publications and conference halls to provide practical solutions to societal challenges,” she said, urging participants to transform conference discussions into tangible actions and lasting impact. Representing the Chairman of the University Council, Dr. Mercy Kanyara, Chair of the Council Academic Committee, emphasized that the true success of the conference would be measured by the positive change inspired by the ideas shared. Reiterating Machakos University’s commitment to excellence in research and innovation, she challenged participants to translate knowledge into action, noting that “Ideas inspire, actions transform.”

The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Jones Agwata, who appreciated all stakeholders for their support and acknowledged the valuable partnership of the National Bank of Kenya and Coca-Cola Beverages Africa in making the event a success.

The 7th International Conference reaffirmed Machakos University’s position as a leading hub of research, innovation, and knowledge exchange. The ideas, partnerships, and solutions generated during the conference are expected to contribute significantly to sustainable development and unlock the immense opportunities presented by the Fifth Industrial Revolution.