Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has stepped up academic publishing, in an effort to enhance the skills and global career opportunities of academic staff at the institution. The three-day joint writing workshop with the British Academy took place from 25th to 27th March, 2025. The workshop brought together key facilitators including Prof. Lutz Marten (SOAS, University of London), Prof. Hannah Gibson (University of Essex), Prof. Alfred Buregeya (University of Nairobi), Prof. Rose Letsholo (University of Botswana) and Dr. David Barasa (MMUST).
Speaking during the courtesy call, Prof. Judah Ndiku who was representing the Vice Chancellor welcomed the team of facilitators to the University, expressing MMUST’s commitment to promote a reading and writing culture among early career researchers in the institution. “I congratulate the School of Arts and Social Sciences for representing MMUST in the project ‘Decentering knowledge and training opportunities: Supporting the development of the next generation of researchers in African linguistics’. This project ties in with the University’s mandate of teaching, research and community outreach,” remarked Prof. Ndiku.
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Moses Poipoi who is also the Dean, School of Education commended the good working relations that MMUST continues to build with universities across the globe. Challenged the team to put into use the skills and knowledge gained from the workshop to enable them apply for more grants and fellowships.
Participants at the VC’s Office.
The Project Principal Investigator, Prof. Hannah Gibson shared her experiences with the participants, pointing out the importance of acquiring the right writing skills in the globalized world of academia. “This collaborative workshop will provide an opportunity for early career researchers at MMUST to work with experienced editors on preparation of high quality publications, writing skills, strengthening scholarly work, mentorship and career development,” stated Prof. Gibson.
The Project Principal Investigator, Prof. Hannah Gibson (right) and Prof. Rose Letsholo (University of Botswana).
The Dean School of Arts and Social Sciences, Dr. Rose Auma expressed delight regarding the choice of MMUST as a training ground by the British Academy. She stated that academic writing is an important component in the professional development of staff in the School. “This significant writing workshop is a milestone by the School of Arts and Social Sciences which has been championing capacity building in research, especially linguistics and related areas. I urge the British Academy to consider supporting research capacity building for all academic staff in our School. I thank my Associate Dean, Dr. David Barasa for spearheading this initiative,” said Dr. Auma.
The Associate Dean SASS, Dr. David Barasa noted that the project allows for continued mentorship, engagement between participants and experienced journal editors, and explicitly works with the research community outside of the capital city Nairobi in a bid to decentralize knowledge and training opportunities. Commenting on the attendance of the workshop, Dr. Barasa stated that the sessions were attended by 17 participants and seven instructors who were experienced journal editors. “In this workshop, we have focused on the publishing landscape in Eastern and Southern Africa. I am sure that the participants have taken in the best practices in academic writing, which will transform their publishing future nationally and internationally,” affirmed Dr. Barasa.
Prof. Lutz Marten -SOAS, University of London (right) with Dr. David Barasa
Undoubtedly, the highly productive workshop is a step in the right direction for MMUST and all other participating Universities who are steering this project. The gains from the workshop will not only build the careers of the participants but also positively transform their academic culture of staff while inculcating the right research habits.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Caren Nekesa
Photos by Wangari Wambugu
