The University of Eldoret proudly emerged as the Best Innovation Institution during the Eldoret City Innovation Week held from June 5^th to 7^th, 2025. This prestigious recognition marked a defining moment for the institution, underscoring its unwavering dedication to cultivating a culture of research, creativity, and pragmatic problem-solving both within and beyond the confines of the university. This accomplishment serves as a testament to our leadership in the innovation space, not only within the North Rift but also nationally and internationally.

Organized under the theme “Building a Sustainable, Technologically Advanced and Inclusive Urban Ecosystem,” the Innovation Week brought together key stakeholders from academia, government, industry, and civil society. UoE’s presence at the event was both formidable and inspiring, showcasing a dynamic mix of faculty, students, and administrative staff who contributed to the exhibitions, panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions.

At the heart of the university’s delegation was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Prof. Phillip Raburu, who not only led the team but also delivered a compelling speech during a high-level panel session. In his address titled “Understanding the Role of Higher Learning Institutions in Innovation,” Prof. Raburu emphasized the critical role that universities fulfill in cultivating resilient innovation ecosystems. He underscored the imperative for higher education institutions to transcend traditional teaching and research, actively support interdisciplinary collaboration, safeguard intellectual property, nurture entrepreneurial student initiatives, and engage with external partners in both the public and private sectors.

This philosophy was vividly exemplified through the innovations showcased by UoE students and faculty. A wide range of student-led projects attracted attention for their ingenuity, creativity, relevance, and social impact. Among the notable projects included;

These innovations were developed by students from diverse academic disciplines —ranging from Mathematics, Computer Science, Forestry, Environmental Biology, Applied Economics, and Special Needs Education. Their work not only reflected academic rigor but also demonstrated a deep understanding of Kenya’s pressing challenges and the potential of young people to solve them.

UoE faculty also contributed to the innovation showcase with pioneering solutions of their own. From Department of Technology Education, Dr. Douglas Odhiambo exhibiting with a student Godfrey Mwangi, presented a microcontroller-based irrigation system and a smart window prototype aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in housing. Dr. Mutati Muasya and Miss Betty Gakii from the Department of Biotechnology, unveiled a tissue-cultured potato variety designed to improve agricultural productivity and fortify food security.

The university’s robust coordination led by Dr. Emily J. Chemoiwa - the Acting Head of the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO), represented the university in innovation strategy sessions. Behind the scene was Dr. Becky Aloo played a pivotal role, facilitating workshops alongside a dedicated support staff who ensured the university’s exhibition space operated smoothly with utmost professionalism. This effort not only reinforced UoE’s reputation for excellence in execution but also in the realm of innovative ideas.

The award for Best Innovation Institution was a fitting culmination of the university’s extensive endeavors. It acknowleged not only the ingenuity of its innovators but also the robust frameworks established to nurture them - encompassing idea incubation, intellectual property facilitation, mentorship and, industry linkages. More than a trophy, the award is a reflection of UoE’s long-term commitment to producing graduates who are not only thinkers and doers but also transformative agents of change.
As the curtains fall on Eldoret City Innovation Week 2025, the University of Eldoret advances with renewed momentum. With this achievement, the institution reaffirms its status as a national leader in higher education and innovation — a place where knowledge illuminates the path and innovation catalyzes transformative impact.

University of Eldoret — Flame of Knowledge, Fountain of Innovation.