The Vice Chancellor of Egerton University, Professor Isaac Kibwage, has called for greater collaboration between the private sector and academic institutions to enhance the commercialization of research and innovations through patenting. He emphasized that global sustainable development depends on continuous innovation and adaptation, and that Kenya must harness its innovative potential to stay competitive in an era of rapid technological advancement and shifting socio-economic dynamics.
Speaking at a workshop focused on innovation and intellectual property awareness, Professor Kibwage underlined the need for enhancing understanding of patent laws and commercialization processes. This knowledge, he argued, would enable innovators, particularly the youth, to capitalize on their inventions and unlock their full commercial potential. He stressed that countries that lead in skills development and innovation will shape the future of the global economy.
Professor Kibwage urged Kenyan innovators to patent their creations to secure exclusive rights and commercial benefits. He highlighted Egerton University’s efforts to prioritize the commercialization of technologies such as a bean thresher, with Professor Paul Kimurto, Director of the Egerton University Agro-Science Park, leading the initiative. The university is working with the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) to patent the bean thresher as part of broader efforts to strengthen innovation in agriculture and other sectors.
In addition, the university has focused on enhancing staff innovation capacity through training programs facilitated by the Kenya Innovation Agency (KENIA). Egerton University has also completed its Innovation and Commercialization Masterplan, designed to support students in transforming their innovative ideas into tangible products and services. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and intellectual property protection.
Professor Kibwage emphasized that a shift in mindset is necessary among inventors, encouraging them to prioritize intellectual property protection and actively pursue commercialization opportunities. He pointed out that research and educational institutions play a vital role in driving economic growth by supporting the commercialization of research-based innovations, which can lead to job creation, wealth generation, and industrial development.
As part of its ongoing efforts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, Egerton University is forging partnerships with venture capital institutions in East Africa to fund promising innovations. The Vice Chancellor called for stronger collaboration between academia and the private sector to translate research into industrial applications and create new opportunities for employment and economic development.
Professor George Owuor, Director of Research at Egerton University, highlighted the importance of instilling an entrepreneurial mindset in students. He stressed that science, technology, and innovation are critical drivers of socio-economic transformation and sustainable growth. By aligning innovation with national development goals, particularly those outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), institutions can contribute to the achievement of Kenya’s long-term development objectives.
Benson Baituru, a Patent Examiner at KIPI, elaborated on the importance of protecting intellectual property and transforming innovative ideas into viable businesses. Despite the government’s efforts to promote intellectual property rights, many entrepreneurs remain unaware of their potential benefits. The Kenyan legal framework provides robust protection for intellectual property, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and industrial designs, ensuring that creators can safeguard their innovations.
In conclusion, the workshop underscored the need for a concerted effort by academic institutions, the private sector, and the government to foster an innovation ecosystem in Kenya. By strengthening collaborations and enhancing the commercialization of research, Kenya can unlock the full potential of its innovators and secure a competitive edge in the global knowledge economy.
