Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has successfully conducted a Productivity Mainstreaming Workshop aimed at reviewing and improving the institution's productivity metrics. The event, held on 20th and 21st February 2025, brought together key managers from across the University sections to evaluate current productivity data, compute the university's productivity index, and develop strategies for boosting overall efficiency. This exercise was facilitated by experts from the National Productivity and Competitiveness Centre (NPCC) and was held at Golf Hotel Kakamega.
The objective of the workshop was to examine existing productivity measures, analyze collected data, and create actionable strategies to increase MMUST's productivity index, ultimately driving institutional growth and academic excellence. The event was organized by the Division of Administration and Finance and one of the key outcomes of the workshop was the computation of the MMUST Productivity Index. This index is a newly developed tool designed to track the University's overall performance and identify areas where growth and development can be realized.
The Vice-Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo addressing participants at the workshop.
Speaking during the workshop, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo noted that efficiency is not just a buzzword but a core requirement for success. "Reputation matters! Let us take care of our Reputation. I am delighted to inform you that our graduates of Clinical Medicine are doing very well in the medical sector. This is good feedback regarding our reputation.The strategies we develop here will set the stage for MMUST’s future growth and reputation," said Prof. Shibairo.
Similarly, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance)- Prof. John Kuria Thuo emphasized the importance of data driven approach in improving the University efficiency. “Our focus is to ensure that we are continuously improving our operations and output ranging from research, teaching, or administration. This workshop should equip us with the requisite tools to review our performance, identify areas of strength and to capitalize on them for the overall benefit of the organization,” stated Prof. Thuo.
The key highlight of the workshop was the presentation of the MMUST Productivity Index, a comprehensive measure designed to track the University’s progress. The workshop also focused on the development of targeted strategies aimed at improving the University’s productivity index. This includes streamlining administrative processes, enhancing research support, improving staff training, and leveraging technology to improve teaching and learning processes.
Deputy Vice Chancellor- Ms. Jane Maina speaking at the workshop.
One of the facilitators Ms. Jane Maina ( Deputy Director NPCC) pointed out that productivity improvement is the key aspect to sustainable revenue growth.In her presentation, Ms. Maina emphasized the importance of embedding productivity strategies into the culture of an institution. “Productivity is not just about increasing output; it’s about creating smarter, more efficient systems that enhance the overall value of work done by every individual in an organization,” she explained. She noted that for Universities, improving productivity involves optimizing both human and physical resources, ensuring that every part of the institution works towards achieving its core mission of education and research.
A section of the participants at the workshop.
Reiterating her counterpart, the Senior Productivity Officer- NPCC, Mr. John Chege challenged the University to create a Productivity Champion team from management level. They will be tasked to develop productivity metrics, data collection and computation of the index, sensitize the rest of the staff on productivity and submit quarterly productivity reports.
The Senior Productivity Officer- NPCC, Mr. John Chege making a presentation at the workshop.
This workshop demonstrates MMUST’s broader objective of achieving institutional excellence and improving its overall performance. As the University remains steadfast to elevate its productivity index, the insights gained from this workshop will certainly drive significant improvements in research, academic and administrative performance, ensuring that MMUST gains traction in productivity mainstreaming.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Linet Owuor
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
