Machakos University Participates at the 41st International Association of Science Parks (IASP) Conference

Machakos University was honored to participate in the prestigious 41^st International Association of Science Parks (IASP) Conference, held from 23^rd to 27^th September 2024. The event, hosted by Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) under the Ministry of Information Communications and Digital Economy, aimed to position Konza as an emerging Smart City and Science Park while offering a platform for global science park representatives to exhibit innovations from their respective countries.

The theme for the conference was “Demographics, Entrepreneurship, and Technology: Defining the Frontiers of Future Economies, which had significance in exploring the role played by Science Parks and areas of innovation in empowering regions such as Africa and Asia to harness the great potential of their growing youth demographic, entrepreneurship, and technology for economic growth. The theme would also help in addressing the challenges posed by a global population that is steadily aging.

The Conference was officially inaugurated by the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Rigathi Gachagua, whose presence signified Kenya’s growing reputation as a hub for technological innovation.

As an official partner of Konza Technopolis, Machakos University’s involvement in the conference was integral. Several international delegates and participants from the IASP conference on Monday, 23^rd September, toured the University’s Luban Workshop where they were introduced to the lab’s cutting-edge infrastructure and various student-led innovations by one of the Instructors in the Luban Workshop. The visitors were received by the University Management, led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joyce Agalo.

On Tuesday 24^th September 2024, Machakos University students from the School of Engineering and Technology and the School of Pure and Applied Sciences, presented two innovative projects namely; “The Blind Eye Application” and “Robox Farm Innovation” ,  at Konza Technopolis. Accompanying them were Prof. David Mulwa, The Registrar of Research, Innovations and Linkages and Dr. Erick Omuya, Chair of the Department of Computing and Information Technology and also the instructor of the two projects. The talented and ambitious students showcased prowess in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in developing Application and innovations that would empower the visually impaired persons in accessibility and independence, and also assist farmers in monitoring farm data i.e. temperature, humidity, soil moisture, and NPK levels to improve productivity respectively.

From Wednesday 25^th to Friday 27^th September, 2024 the Conference was held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) where more innovations were displayed.

A major highlight of Machakos University’s participation occurred on 27^th September when the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joyce Agalo, attended the Conference as a panelist during the Vice Chancellors’ Roundtable. In this session, she presented on the pivotal role universities play in supporting science parks and fostering emerging technologies. Prof. Agalo highlighted Machakos University’s contributions to innovation through its facilities such as the Luban Workshop, Stem power Center, Jitume Lab, Ajiry Center among other advanced technology labs within the institution.

Panelists, among them is Machakos University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Agalo during the Vice- Chancellors Roundtable Session

Machakos University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joyce Agalo making a presentation at the Conference (KICC)

Machakos University’s presence at the IASP Conference not only strengthened its partnership with Konza Technopolis but also demonstrated the University’s commitment to advancing innovation and research on a global scale. The conference provided invaluable exposure for students and staff, reinforcing the University’s position as a key player in technological advancement and education in Kenya.