CUE Calls for More University Research Funds.
The Commission for University Education (CUE) has called for a significant portion of the national budget allocated to research and development to be directed specifically toward universities.
Prof Mike Kuria, the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized that a substantial share of the 2% of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) designated for research under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act of 2013 should go to universities. This, he said, would empower them to effectively carry out their core research and innovation functions.
According to Prof Kuria, universities are central to the country’s innovation landscape, yet many research initiatives have stalled due to limited funding. He noted that a number of promising ideas and innovations have remained undeveloped because of the lack of financial support, frustrating many researchers.
Although the Act mandates a 2% allocation of GDP to research, the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) reports that Kenya currently spends only about 0.8% of its GDP on research and development. This shortfall has made it increasingly difficult for researchers to meet their obligations and has left many projects underfunded.
Prof Kuria explained that higher education institutions conduct the majority of Kenya’s research and are therefore vital in advancing economic development. He stated that the current competition for limited research funds is intense, with hundreds of students submitting proposals, but only a few receiving support. He added that this challenge could be resolved if more funds were allocated as proposed by the Commission.
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Speaking at a tree planting initiative at Zetech University, Prof Kuria also encouraged universities to choose tree species that complement their technical missions and research agendas. He said such species can serve dual purposes—supporting environmental sustainability while also aiding academic studies.
Prof Njenga Munene, Vice Chancellor of Zetech University, supported Prof Kuria’s appeal and pointed out that many of the trees planted at the university are intended not just to enhance the landscape but also to facilitate scientific research. He affirmed the institution’s dedication to embedding sustainability into both its operations and curriculum, aiming to position Zetech as a leader in green practices within higher education.
Prof Munene explained that the university had already established a nursery with a variety of tree species used for research. He added that Zetech had launched a greening program designed to build climate resilience and promote environmental awareness.
CUE Calls for More University Research Funds.
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