NRF Holds Stakeholders Engagement Workshop on the Research Infrastructure Sharing Guidelines

Enhancing Research Infrastructure and Collaboration for National Development

29th July 2029: The National Research Fund (NRF) held a pivotal workshop at the Edge Convention Centre, drawing participants from 34 institutions across Kenya, including universities, research institutes, and government bodies. The consultative workshop aimed to review and receive feedback from stakeholders on the Research Infrastructure Sharing Guidelines, providing a platform for stakeholders to explore the state of research facilities in the country and propose a way forward.

During the opening remarks, NRF CEO, Prof. Dickson Andala, emphasized the importance of optimizing the use of existing research infrastructure and fostering collaborative efforts among institutions. He highlighted key infrastructure projects funded by NRF, such as the Stem Cell Research Centre at KEMRI and the National Phytotherapeutics Research Centre at Kenyatta University. He also underscored the need for a national framework that ensures transparent, efficient, and accountable sharing of research resources.

The workshop’s objectives were outlined by Ms. Faith Wakhungu, including promoting the benefits of shared infrastructure, gathering stakeholder input, and finalizing the draft research infrastructure sharing guidelines. These guidelines aim to optimize resource utilization, foster innovation, and enhance collaboration among researchers, universities, and industry.

A keynote presentation by Prof. Walter Oyawa, Director General of NACOSTI, addressed the gaps and opportunities in Kenya’s research infrastructure landscape. He underscored the importance of synergistic collaboration in leveraging existing scientific equipment, data systems, and e-infrastructures to drive innovation and societal progress. Prof. Oyawa stressed that research infrastructures, whether virtual or physical, are critical to achieving excellence in research and development.

A highlight of the workshop was the plenary session, where participants posed key questions. Issues such as the sustainability of NRF-funded centers of excellence, the need for researchers to acknowledge NRF’s contributions, and the equitable sharing of infrastructure were discussed. The NRF reiterated its commitment to making high-end research equipment accessible to all researchers in Kenya, with plans to launch a database of available facilities.

Looking ahead, NRF is preparing for the Kenya National Research Festival, which will promote basic sciences and provide opportunities for students to engage with research institutes, further reinforcing Kenya’s research ecosystem.

Through this workshop, NRF continues to lead efforts in advancing research infrastructure, ensuring equitable access, and fostering innovation for national growth.