Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has once again made its mark on the global innovation stage. Mr. Benard Phabian Odoyo, a student from the University’s ‘Tafiti Research and Innovation Hub’, has been invited to participate in the final competitions of the Young Scientist SDGs Award 2025 (UNITAR), in Geneva, Switzerland from 10th to 13th October, 2025. This marks the second opportunity a student from the University has earned a spot at the prestigious Global SDG Olympiad competitions, strengthening the institution’s reputation as a hub for innovative solutions.
The team’s invitation came after a series of mentorship sessions aimed at developing solutions for ‘Official Development Assistance’ (ODA), a challenge identified by the Global Citizen International Corporation and SDG Olympiad. As a counter measure to persistent challenges undermining aid effectiveness, the team developed a digital platform dubbed ‘Regional Insight for Sustainable Empowerment’ (RISE). This platform redefines how development projects are monitored and evaluated across Kenya and Africa.
The team lead and Founder of the Tafiti Research and Innovation Hub, Mr. Benard Phabian Odoyo.
Speaking in an interview, the group’s team leader, Mr. Odoyo revealed that their innovation aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and community participation by providing real-time tracking of aid-funded initiatives. “Through RISE, young people and local communities are empowered to monitor progress, validate results, and engage directly with donors and implementing organizations. This platform directly tackles long-standing issues such as corruption, weak transparency mechanisms, and limited community involvement. Our work will certainly address growing concerns over aid cuts, which threaten access to education, healthcare, and livelihoods,” he said.
The Director Science Park Incubation and Innovation Centre (SPIIC), Dr. Tecla Sum at a past event.
Speaking on the achievement, the Director Science Park Incubation and Innovation Centre (SPIIC), Dr. Tecla Sum stated that the students’ success is a testament to the University’s immense potential. She emphasized that the quality of mentorship and infrastructure within the Innovation Academy, despite its age, is a direct result of the commitment from its mentor’s and the entire Science Park team.
“This win has demonstrated that MMUST, as a University of Science, Technology and Innovation, is producing quality innovators who reflect our vision and mission,” noted Dr. Sum.
She also issued a call to action to the wider student body, encouraging them to tap into the available resources. “The MMUST Innovation Academy is open for all students. The win of these others is evidence that MMUST has the capacity and so do the students. I welcome you to the Academy and commit to supporting you in your areas of specialty because you too have the potential to win,” she added.
Other team members of the Tafiti Research and Innovation Hub include Dr. Cedric Okinda, Mr. Larry Okumu, Mr. Gilo Byron, Ms. Noldah Adhiambo and Blessing Mumo.
By Caren Nekesa
