The University of Nairobi played host to the inaugural Science Communication and Diplomacy Conference on October 15-16, 2024, bringing together leading figures from academia, government, and scientific communities. The event, organized in collaboration with the Scientists of Kenya Association (SCOKA), focused on the theme "Effective Science Communication for Technological Innovation and Adoption in Kenya."
Dr. Roselida Owuor, Director of Research at the Ministry of Education, represented the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba, at the conference. In the address, Dr. Owuor emphasized the critical role of science communication in driving technological innovation and its adoption in Kenya. She highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and societal understanding, particularly in an era where science and technology are shaping every aspect of our lives.
We are living in an era where science and innovation have the potential to transform nations," Dr. Owuor read, echoing the Cabinet Secretary's words. "Yet the true power of these transformations can only be realized if they are understood, embraced, and applied effectively by all stakeholders - governments, industries, and the general public alike
The speech highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and societal understanding, particularly in an era where science and technology are shaping every aspect of our lives. Dr. Owuor, conveying the Cabinet Secretary's message, stressed that effective science communication is not merely about disseminating research findings but encompasses engaging policymakers, educating the public, and inspiring future generations of scientists and innovators.
In her opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor Prof. M. Jesang Hutchinson emphasized the university's commitment to fostering scientific diplomacy and communication. She emphasized that the University of Nairobi serves as a critical hub for scientific diplomacy through its multidisciplinary research programs, partnerships with global institutions, and active engagement with the public.
Prof. Hutchinson highlighted the university's role in addressing pressing national challenges such as climate change, health disparities, food security, and energy sustainability. She mentioned key initiatives like the Institute for Climate Change Adaptation, University of Nairobi Institute for Tropical Diseases (UNITID), Kenya Vaccine Institute (KAVI), and Centre for Epidemiological Modelling Analysis (CEMA) as examples of the institution's commitment to research that addresses both national and global priorities.
Prof. Leonidah Kerubo, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, echoed these sentiments in her address. She emphasized the power of human ingenuity in the face of global challenges and called for partnerships where ideas turn into actions and challenges into opportunities. Prof. Kerubo stressed the importance of ensuring that scientific and technological advancements promote equity, sustainability, and inclusivity.
The Chairperson of SCOKA, Ms. Everlyne Kimanthi, in her opening remarks, highlighted the crucial timing of the conference. She emphasized that science communication plays an increasingly pivotal role in enabling innovation and technological adoption in Kenya and across Africa. Ms. Kimanthi stressed the importance of bridging the gap between science, policy, and the community to achieve sustainable development and meet national and global goals such as Vision 2030 and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
The conference provided a unique platform for diverse stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations, share best practices, and explore innovative strategies to strengthen science communication and diplomacy in Kenya. It emphasized the collective commitment to ensuring that scientific knowledge produced within Kenya's borders is harnessed for the betterment of society.
As Kenya continues to make strides in various technological fields, from mobile banking innovations like M-Pesa to advancements in agriculture and healthcare, the importance of effective science communication becomes ever more apparent. The conference served as a reminder that the true power of scientific and technological transformations can only be realized if they are understood, embraced, and applied effectively by all stakeholders - governments, industries, and the general public alike.
The Science Communication and Diplomacy Conference 2024 marks a significant step forward in Kenya's journey towards becoming a technology-driven economy. It highlighted the crucial need for continued collaboration between universities, research institutions, industries, and government to promote a culture of innovation and adoption. It served as a reminder of the critical role that communication plays in translating scientific research into real-world solutions that can improve lives and transform societies.
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