Scholars Call for Innovative Solutions to Evolving Social Systems as MMUST Hosts the 18th International Multi-Disciplinary Conference
Researchers and Scholars at the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s 18th International Multi-Disciplinary Conference have called for innovative solutions to address the evolving social systems. The three-day blended Conference, themed ‘Exploring the Dynamic Social Systems: Interdisciplinary Approaches for Innovative Solutions,’ was officially opened by the First Lady of the County Government of Kakamega, Prof. Janet Kassilly Barasa. This year’s event took place from 14th to 16th May, 2025, and was organized by the School of Arts and Social Sciences (SASS), led by the Dean-Dr. Rose Auma.
In her opening remarks, Prof. Janet Barasa, who is also an Associate Professor of Religion and Culture at MMUST, commended the University for hosting such a vibrant academic gathering. “As the First Lady of Kakamega County and an academic, I am truly honored to be a part of this impactful Conference. This gathering is a testament to our shared commitment to exploring and engaging with the dynamic nature of social systems, which shape the way we live, interact, govern, learn and evolve,” noted Prof. Barasa. While highlighting the longstanding relationship between MMUST and the County Government of Kakamega, she pointed out that the partnership has flourished in key areas, including research and development. Notably, on day 2 of the Conference, the First Lady gave a keynote address on Resilience and Adaptation in Social Systems, where she discussed how societies should adapt to changes and how they respond to them.
The First Lady of the County Government of Kakamega, Prof. Janet Kassilly Barasa, addresses Conference participants during the official opening ceremony.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo, pointed out that the Conference brought together brilliant minds from diverse disciplines, united by a shared purpose, to interrogate, innovate, and influence the ever-evolving society. “I take this opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of the School of Arts and Social Sciences for organizing a Conference of this caliber. This year’s theme reminds us that innovation thrives where disciplines intersect, and that social systems and the Arts are a key ingredient of this intersections,” said Prof. Thuo.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo, speaks at the event.
“The Division of Planning, Research and Innovation is proud to host this Conference. As the institutional organ in charge of research and postgraduate support, this event marks a significant step in achieving the main goal of the University, which is research, teaching and community outreach,” stated the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)-Prof. Peter Bukhala. He urged researchers to disseminate their findings to communities, encouraging them to collaborate with scholars from other disciplines. “I invite all participants to utilize the opportunities and networks availed through this Conference to advance research in your respective fields and organizations,” added Prof. Bukhala.
The Director (Research and Postgraduate Support-DRPS), Prof. Francis Orata, gives his remarks at the Official opening ceremony of the Conference.
Speaking during the conference, the Director (Research and Postgraduate Support-DRPS), Prof. Francis Orata, revealed that researchers from SASS are championing research in various disciplines and are at the frontline of the University’s research agenda. “Although this is a University of Science and Technology, we appreciate the role played by Arts in addressing society’s problems through research. I am glad that this Conference has provided an opportunity for us to experience a wholesome view of research outputs and innovations, from an Arts perspective,” asserted Prof. Orata.
Dean-SASS, Dr. Rose Auma, at the event.
“As a School, we are committed to fostering intellectual exchange, collaboration as well as top notch research in the arts and related areas. The role of humanities and social sciences in understanding ourselves, our social contexts and challenges cannot be gainsaid. They are the glue that connects individuals, institutions and nations to the rest of the world while shaping conversations that will inspire reforms and sustainable development across the society,” remarked the Dean-SASS, Dr. Rose Auma.
The Associate Dean SASS-Dr. David Barasa keenly follows Conference proceedings.
On his part, the Associate Dean SASS-Dr. David Barasa reiterated that the Conference provided a platform to the scholars to understand social systems and how interdisciplinary research can be utilized to address complexities of modern society. “The diverse presentations throughout the conference have demonstrated the power of collaborative thinking in unlocking new perspectives that drive transformative change. These conversations are central to the development of inclusive and sustainable solutions for our societies,” stated Dr. Barasa.
A section of participants at the Conference.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, through such events, continues to provide platforms for knowledge exchange and sharing of impactful research. Certainly, the 18th International Multi-Disciplinary Conference findings are poised to contribute towards the development of robust social systems.
By Linet Owuor and Wangari Wambugu
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
