Scholars at the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology 5th STEM International Conference (STEMEIC2024) have called for the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and industry. The Conference, themed ‘Leveraging STEM Innovations for Inclusive Societal Advancement and Sustainable Development’, kicked off today, 13th November, 2024 and was officially opened by Dr. Carol Hunja, who was representing the Principal Secretary-State Department for Higher Education and Research, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala. The well-attended event was also graced by the MMUST Chairperson of Council-Dr. Pamela Sitienei, Council Members-Dr. George Lutomia and Ms. Susan Nyaboke Nyasinga, the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Solomon Shibairo, as well as Deputy Vice Chancellors. It attracted participants from across the world, including, USA, Switzerland, Turkey, Kenya and Rwanda.
Online participants during one of the sessions.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, Dr. Hunja pointed out that the State Department for Higher Education and Research is committed to promoting research, science, technology and innovation. “We have continuously championed access to education in Kenya, specifically at the University level. It is important to note that the Ministry of Education has not only laid great emphasis on quality education and training, but also supported STEM education for sustainable development,” she stated.
“This Conference could not be more timely, especially in this era that has been revolutionized by the advent of AI. There is, therefore, an urgent need for institutions, particularly those of higher learning, to address and embrace this change in order to enhance the quality of teaching and learning,” said Dr. Sitienei. She added that MMUST is determined to incorporate both STEM and soft skills in a bid to produce graduates that are ready for the modern job market and also able to innovate, create jobs and thrive anywhere in the world.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, addresses participants at STEMEIC2024 Conference hosted by MMUST.
In his remarks, Prof. Shibairo appreciated the support of the MMUST Council, under the leadership of Dr. Sitienei, and the Ministry of Education in ensuring that teaching and learning activities run smoothly. “I recognize the efforts of the Division of Research, Planning and Innovation, as well as the conference organizing committee for working hard to ensure we have the 5th STEM Education International Conference hosted at MMUST. As a University that prioritizes matters of research, innovation and community outreach, it is imperative we harness the power of STEM innovations to create inclusive solutions that benefit all members of society,” stated the Vice Chancellor.
“Through the Division of Planning, Research and Innovation, MMUST is set to participate in the world stage of research. We are dedicated to advancing the research agenda and push the boundaries of knowledge until we make meaningful changes in our communities and nation,” remarked the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)-Prof. Charles Mutai.
DVC (Planning, Research and Innovation)-Prof. Charles Mutai listens keenly as the STEMEIC2024 Chairperson, Prof. Catherine Aurah, gives her remarks.
Equally, the STEMEIC2024 Chairperson, Prof. Catherine Aurah, who has been the key force behind STEMEIC Conferences, called for the integration of the sustainability component into curricula, as well as enhancing technology access and promoting diversity. “I urge participants, scholars and researchers present here, both in person and virtually, to collaborate and network for purposes of steering STEM in Kenya and beyond,” said Prof. Aurah while giving the overview of the Conference.
On his part, the Director of Research and Postgraduate Support-Prof. Francis Orata commended the Conference organizing committee for the suitable choice of sub-themes, which were well in line with the 17 sustainable development goals adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations. “I encourage all the researchers who have presented here to publish their work in the new 5 MMUST journals,” added Prof. Orata.
Prof. Francis Orata and Prof. Catherine Aurah consult at the Conference.
The thought-provoking presentations and interactive plenary sessions that characterized the STEMEIC2024 Conference, are an indication that scholars, practitioners and cheerleaders of STEM, are on the path towards utilizing technology and the sciences to build the resilience of communities and improve livelihoods. Clearly, MMUST is living up to its name as a University of Science and Technology.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Wangari Wambugu
Photos by Joshua Chiro and Steven Omondi
