Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology continues to advance in sustainable innovation as one of its student innovators from the School of Natural Sciences, Ms. Teresia Nyandoro, garnered interest from potential collaborators for large-scale production of her eco-friendly sanitary pad innovation. Developed using biodegradable sugarcane bagasse, the patented innovation drew significant attention during the Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) first ever Innovation Week, held on 24th and 25th March, 2025, where fellow innovators expressed interest in partnering on mass production. Ms. Nyandoro is currently raising KES 6 million to establish a mini-production plant at the MMUST Science Park Innovation and Incubation Centre, which will have the capacity to manufacture 140 pads per minute. Also representing MMUST at the event were the Associate Dean School of Computing and Informatics, Dr. Collins Odoyo and one more student innovator from the School of Engineering and Built Environment, Mr. Phabian Odoyo.
The MMUST team, led by Dr. Collins Odoyo (standing in the middle), alongside Ms. Teresia Nyandoro and Mr. Phabian Odoyo, at Kaimosi Friends University’s inaugural Innovation Week.
Similarly, Mr. Phabian Odoyo showcased his innovation on hybrid power systems, which captivated attendees at the event. His innovation stood out for its integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimize the utilization of multiple power sources including the battery, grid, and solar, enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring a reliable domestic power supply.
Speaking during an interview, Dr. Collins Odoyo emphasized SPIIC’s commitment to supporting and nurturing student-led innovations through mentorship, funding opportunities, and linkages with industry stakeholders, ensuring that their ideas progress beyond concept to impactful, real-world solutions. “We are keen on working with students because fostering their creativity and innovation not only prepares them for employment but also empowers them to become job creators. Their ideas, once developed, protected, and commercialized, have the potential to transform industries and contribute to national development,” said Dr. Odoyo.
Ms. Teresia Nyandoro and Mr. Phabian Odoyo interact with attendees while showcasing innovations at the exhibition.
Further he noted that young innovators are instrumental in positioning the University within the rapidly evolving technological ecosystem, which is reshaping various sectors globally. “With their adaptability and eagerness to embrace new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and renewable energy solutions, students can make meaningful contributions to global technological progress,” he added.
Certainly, MMUST’s commitment to research and innovation cannot be overstated. We congratulate our student innovators and the Science Park Innovation and Incubation Centre team for their outstanding contributions to developing sustainable solutions for a better world.
By Caren Nekesa
