MACHAKOS UNIVERSITY 6TH INNOVATION AND EXHIBITION WEEK

Machakos University recently held its highly anticipated sixth annual Innovation and Exhibition Week, from Wednesday 21^st to Friday 23^rd February 2024, at the university’s sports ground. With the resounding theme of “Innovation for Environmental Sustainability,” the event served as a platform for innovators, educators, policymakers, and environmental enthusiasts from across the region to showcase groundbreaking solutions and engage in discussions on pressing environmental challenges.

The three-day event commenced with great enthusiasm, as H.E. Hon. Francis Mwangangi, the Deputy Governor of Machakos County, graced the occasion with his presence and was warmly received by the Vice Chancellor and University Management. H.E. Hon. Francis Mwangangi had the opportunity to explore some of the university state-of-the-art facilities, starting with Luban workshop that showcased innovative techniques and equipment for hands-on learning and skill development.

The tour proceeded to Jitume Center, where the Deputy Governor had the chance to witness progress of initiatives being undertaken. This was followed by a visit to the newly launched Stem Power Center that featured cutting-edge technology and research equipment in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, leaving visitors impressed and inspired by the potential for innovation. The tour concluded at Ajiry Center, which provided insights into the advancements and opportunities in the realm of entrepreneurship and job creation in Machakos County.

The Vice Chancellor’s welcoming remarks set the tone for an exciting and insightful event, followed by the official opening ceremony graced by H.E. Hon. Francis Mwangangi, who emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in addressing global challenges.

The forum welcomed various community stakeholders, including Kenya Prisons-Machakos, the Machakos Technical Institute for the Blind, and Vyulya Girls Secondary School.

Throughout the event, attendees were treated to a diverse array of exhibits, presentations, and interactive sessions, showcasing innovative projects and initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. From renewable energy solutions to waste management innovations, participants demonstrated a deep commitment to finding practical and scalable ways to protect and preserve our planet.

Notable innovations included:

1. Silage Saw Blade, developed by Dr. Benson Wang’ombe, a dedicated staff member of Machakos University whose innovative solution addresses challenges in the agricultural sector by offering an efficient and effective tool for silage preparation.

Dr. Benson Wang’ombe demonstrating Silage Saw Blade innovation

b. Robox Farm developed by Dickson Esamei, Mohamed Abubakar and Brian Albeit Machakos University students, integrates robotics and automation to streamline agricultural processes, offering increased efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.

Dickson Esamei, Mohamed Abubakar and Brian Albeit – Illustrating their innovation

c. Mr. James Munyao’s inventive creations, showcased under the category of Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) at Machakos University’s Innovation and Exhibition Week, underscore the transformative potential of repurposing materials for practical solutions. Munyao’s dual innovations include bags crafted from surgical masks and a versatile multi-purpose bag. These creations not only demonstrate Munyao’s creative flair but also highlight the importance of sustainability and resourcefulness in product design. By repurposing materials in innovative ways, Munyao exemplifies the ethos of TVET education, fostering skills that address real-world challenges while promoting environmental consciousness.

Mr. James Munyao’s inventive creations

Abagail Kavenge and Joan Mwende, two talented high school students, showcased their ingenuity at Machakos University’s Innovation and Exhibition Week with their remarkable creation, the Multi-Extendable Table. This innovative project, presented under the category of High School, highlights the impressive capabilities of young minds in tackling practical challenges with creative solutions. The Multi-Extendable Table offers versatility and functionality, catering to various needs and space constraints. Kavenge and Mwende’s creation exemplifies the spirit of innovation and problem-solving ingrained in the next generation. Their success at the event serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the potential of youth to drive meaningful change through inventive thinking and collaboration.

The Multi-Extendable Table

As the event concluded on Friday, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Research, Innovation, and Linkages Prof. Geoffrey Maroko highlighted the importance of sustained innovation and collaboration in achieving environmental sustainability goals. Prof. Jones Agwata, Director in charge of Research, Innovation, and Technology Transfer, expressed gratitude to all participants, exhibitors, sponsors, and organizers for their contributions to the success of the sixth Innovation and Exhibition Week.

Looking ahead, Machakos University reaffirms its commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability, driving positive change within the university community and beyond. Buoyed by the momentum gained from this year’s event, the university is poised to further advance its mission of promoting environmental stewardship and harnessing the power of innovation for the greater good.