Machakos University’s 6th International Annual Conference
Machakos University is deeply committed to generating new knowledge through rigorous research and producing impactful publications. This dedication was prominently showcased at the recent 6th International Conference held from 29th May to 31st May, 2024 at the University Amphitheatre. This was a significant event that united experts, scholars, and practitioners from several Universities and other institutions.
The Conference aimed to achieve several key objectives: facilitating knowledge sharing and dissemination, providing publication opportunities, enabling participants to network with peers, experts, and potential collaborators across various fields, and offering young researchers and professionals the chance to advance their careers through exposure and feedback.
The theme of the Conference was “Adaptive Responses to Global Challenges for Sustainable Socioeconomic Development,” and it featured the following six sub-themes:
| S/No | Sub Committee | Guest speaker |
| Climate Change, Environment, Food Security and Infrastructure Development. | Prof. Johnson Kitheka, SEKU | |
| Health, Tourism and Entrepreurship | Prof. Ray Mutinda, Murang’a University | |
| Innovation in Education and Knowledge Management | Prof. Kellen Kiambati, Karatina University | |
| Energy solutions, Industrialization and Computing Technologies. | Dr. John Kandiri, Kenyatta University | |
| Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics. | Prof. Christopher Muriithi, Murang’a University | |
| Governance, Culture, Languages and Social Sciences. | Prof. Peter Wasamba Anyanga, University of Nairobi |
The Conference drew participants from the following institutions: Tshwane University of Technology, Egerton University , Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Lukenya University, Laikipia University, Kenya Methodist University, Management University of Africa, Kyambogo University, Technical University of Kenya, Moi University, Kenyatta University, University of Nairobi, Koitaleel Samoei University College, Rongo University , Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, South Eastern Kenya University, Taita Taveta University, International Journal of Languages and Professional Studies, Kibabii University , Daystar University, Kaimosi University College.
A total of 43 papers were presented during the Conference.
The Official opening began with welcoming remarks from Prof. Joyce Agalo, Vice-Chancellor of Machakos University, who emphasized the importance of research and publications in driving new knowledge. The official opening was conducted by the Chief Guest, Prof. Walter Oyawa, Director General of the National Commission for Science Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI). In his opening speech, Prof. Oyawa highlighted the critical role of science and technology in addressing global challenges.
Prof. Raphael Munavu, Chairman of the Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA), delivered a compelling keynote address, setting the tone for the conference by stressing the need for adaptive and innovative approaches in various sectors.
The second day of the conference featured a series of presentations delivered both in person and virtually, allowing for a broad range of participation. Researchers and practitioners shared their latest findings and engaged in vibrant discussions on the various sub-themes.
The final day of the conference included a keynote address by Prof. Meoli Kashorda, Executive Director of the Kenya Education Network (KENET), who spoke about the future of education and technology in Kenya. The official closing was marked by a speech from Dr. Rose Ngugi, Executive Director of the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA). Dr. Ngugi emphasized the importance of policy research in shaping effective responses to global challenges.
The Conference concluded on a high note, leaving participants inspired and equipped with new insights to address the pressing issues facing our world today. The event underscored Machakos University’s commitment to fostering dialogue, research, and innovation for sustainable socioeconomic development.
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