Mombasa: The Mombasa International ASK Show concluded with a strong call for industries to capitalize on innovative developments from universities and colleges to stimulate economic growth, enhance productivity, and improve efficiency. The event highlighted the potential of academic innovations to significantly contribute to the national economy.
According to Kenya News Agency, Taita-Taveta University Vice Chancellor Prof. Fred Simiyu Barasa praised the exhibition for showcasing impressive innovations, creativity, and industrial value addition, underscoring their role in supporting the government's Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The Vice Chancellor emphasized the importance of collaboration between industries and academic institutions to commercialize these innovations, which could lead to a self-sufficient economy with strong export potential.
Prof. Barasa noted the significant participation from both local and international stakeholders, highlighting the progress being made in Kenya. He called on industry leaders to actively engage in the commercialization process to maximize the impact of university-driven innovations.
In addition, Prof. Barasa encouraged students to pursue agricultural studies to support Kenya's food security initiatives, addressing the common reluctance to engage in agriculture despite its critical importance.
Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Mombasa County Chairman, Aboud Jamal, expressed the business community's commitment to supporting the commercialization of academic innovations. Jamal also mentioned ongoing discussions with the County Government of Mombasa to address concerns related to the unified single business permit, aimed at streamlining trade.
ASK Mombasa Chairman Henry Nyaga expressed gratitude to the president for inaugurating the event and commended all exhibitors, promising an even larger showcase next year.