Universities are the engines of innovation, driving about 85% of the world’s groundbreaking ideas. Prof. Izael Da Silva highlighted this vital role during Strathmore University’s inaugural Research Excellence Award ceremony, emphasizing the transformative power of research in fueling economic growth and societal development. Yet, even within academic spaces, the concept of research often remains misunderstood or undervalued.
Drawing inspiration from global successes like Ireland’s BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, Prof. Izael underscored how such initiatives can serve as powerful catalysts for innovation. Launched in 1965, the Irish competition has grown into a global benchmark, nurturing young innovators whose contributions have reshaped industries and boosted Ireland’s GDP. This model inspired Strathmore University to establish Ideas Fest, a platform designed to challenge students to engage in real-world problem-solving and entrepreneurial thinking. “When students are encouraged to care for societal issues and work toward solutions, they develop a sense of responsibility that goes beyond academics,” Prof. Izael noted.
Dr. Vincent Ogutu expanded on the theme of innovation, sharing insights into the mindset required to create. “Necessity is the mother of invention,” he reminded the audience, “but the key is to trick the mind into thinking something is necessary for it to create.” Dr. Ogutu then shared a nugget of wisdom with the attendees, a chapter from The Innovation Algorithm, a resource that explores psychological and motivational strategies for sparking creativity. The chapter offers practical steps for transforming necessity into urgency, unlocking the mind’s full potential for innovation.
On the national stage, research remains pivotal to addressing challenges such as hunger, as seen in India’s agricultural transformation since 1947. Dr. Kioko Mwania, Deputy Director of Fund Management at the National Research Fund (NRF), stressed the importance of research informing practice and the need for adequate funding to support groundbreaking ideas. While the law mandates that 2% of the national budget should fund research, securing this allocation often faces resistance from legislators who prioritize immediate, tangible outcomes over long-term research impact. Dr. Mwania also emphasized the importance of intellectual property protection to safeguard and nurture ideas with the potential for significant societal change.
This year’s #SUIdeasFest marked a significant milestone for Strathmore University with the inaugural #SUResearchExcellenceAwards, a platform to celebrate the impactful work of its researchers. The awards recognized exceptional contributions in three categories: Early Career Researcher, System User of the Year, and Overall Researcher of the Year.
We are thrilled to announce the winners:
👉 Early Career Researcher – Dr. David Chiawo, PhD, Dean, Strathmore University School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH)
👉 System User of the Year – Mukami Wangai, Doctoral Fellow, Strathmore Law School
And the #SUResearchExcellenceAward for Overall Researcher of the Year goes to… 🥁🥳
Prof. Simon Wagura Ndiritu, PhD, Director, Strathmore Agri-Food Innovation Center (SAFIC)
Prof. Odhiambo, in his closing remarks, shared a deeper insight into why research has always been his passion. He reflected on the vision of Saint Josemaria, who believed that universities should not be isolated towers of knowledge, but should be actively engaged with the needs of society, solving real-world problems. “Strathmore is committed to solving problems of humanity. Our work must create tangible impact,” he stated. Prof. Odhiambo further emphasized the importance of research as a core mission of the university, aligning with the broader vision of service to society.
He also recommended strengthening the research process through robust monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks to ensure that research efforts remain aligned with societal needs and deliver long-term value.
Looking ahead, Strathmore remains determined to light the way for innovation.
