Kaimosi: Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) held its inaugural Science Fair and University Open Day, marking a significant step in promoting research, science, technology, and innovation in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, the event, themed 'Empowering Communities through Research, Science, Technology, and Innovation', brought together students, alumni, faculty members, county government officials, and development partners. Speaking at the event, Vihiga County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Science, Technical, and Vocational Training, Anne C. Desma, emphasized the fair's role as a platform for fostering collaboration between the County Government and the university.
Desma highlighted that this partnership aims to build a skilled, knowledgeable, and innovative workforce through learning and technical institutions, which are key drivers of the county's economic transformation. The County Government of Vihiga and KAFU are committed to collaborating on joint research projects in agriculture, renewable energy, public health, and education, as well as technology and innovation hubs through the creation of incubation centres to nurture student-led projects and support digital entrepreneurship.
Moreover, the two entities agreed to establish county-backed mentorship programmes for young learners to spark interest in science and innovation. These initiatives aim to provide evidence-based data to guide county planning and decision-making. The fair also showcased innovative projects from students and faculty, with organisers expressing optimism that it will become an annual event to strengthen academia-industry-government collaboration in Vihiga County.