Invest in research, Daniel arap Moi tells varsities

Former President Daniel arap Moi (right) chats with Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i after the opening of the 6th Annual Research Conference at Kabarak University. [Photo: David Kanda/Standard]

Former President Daniel arap Moi has challenged universities to invest in research and innovation to address a myriad of problems facing the country.

Mr Moi commended the Government for establishing the National Research Fund to support research in local universities.

“I have been observing the efforts to provide education for all children, provision of laptops, prevention of cheating and provision of research funds through the upcoming National Research Fund,” said the former president during the opening of 6th annual research conference at Kabarak University.

The forum was also attended by Education Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i, Commission for University Education CEO Prof David Some, Kabarak Vice Chancellor Prof Jones Kaleli and Deputy Vice-Chancellor Dr Henry Kiplagat.

Moi challenged researchers who are attending the three-day research conference to partner with the Government to resolve various challenges facing the country.

“As researchers, you should not forget your role in the process of building the nation. Every challenge we face such as corruption, mismanagement of funds and the breakdown of social and moral order, drug abuse, disease, climate change and lack of employment among our population is a research problem,” Moi said.

The former president further applauded the efforts by the Ministry of Education to improve the education standards in the country.

“Let me remind us it is not only important to point out the shortcomings of the Government but also take time to give credit where it’s due. It’s our hope that this research conference will address this and other immediate problem that we are facing as a nation,” Moi added.

Enormous contribution

The research conference has attracted participants from 26 universities from Kenya, Nigeria and Uganda.

Dr Matiang’i, who was the chief guest, thanked the former president for his enormous contribution and support towards education sector in the country.

The CS further lauded Kabarak University for its relentless commitment to support research through annual research conference.

Matiang’i challenged public and private universities to tap into Sh3 billion set aside for research in the 2016-17 financial year to address various problems facing different sectors.

Other officials present included principal secretaries Belio Kipsang and Dinah Mwinzi.