Prof Walter O. Oyawa, Director General, NACOSTI today hosted a team from European Union Working group on Higher Education and Research led by Dr Mathieu Guérin, Attaché for Science and Higher Education, Embassy of France, and Dr. Laurent Bochereau, the EU Science Counselor to the African Union. The Working Group comprised EU Delegation to the African Union, EU Delegation to Kenya, and representatives of EU Missions/Embassies in Kenya.
To start off the discussions, the representative of the Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research, Mr. Fredrick Ndambuki welcomed the delegation and appreciated the fruitful partnerships that Kenya has had with the EU. He looked forward to increased joint ventures. On his part, the Director General NACOSTI, Prof. Walter Oyawa provided insights into the current state of scientific research systems within the country and expressed the need for a whole-of-government approach to fast track the deployment of science, technology and innovation for national prosperity and national good. He also outlined the achievements and advancements made in various research fields, underlining Kenya’s commitment to make deliberate investment on science and technology, and innovation. He further informed that the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Education, Hon. Ezekiel Machogu, had appointed the National Research, Technology and Innovation Consortium/Committee (NARTIC). The Chief objective of the NARTIC is to directly (or through sub-consortia) prepare, coordinate preparation of, and submit proposals to the Horizon Europe “call for Proposals”, and to any other partner/donor funding agencies.
Led by Dr. Mathieu Guerin, the EU representatives presented the existing partnerships, joint initiatives, and ongoing projects aimed at enhancing the quality of education and promoting research excellence in Kenya through EU cooperation. The EU Delegation also elaborated on possible areas of new partnerships, as well as opportunities available in each of the EU Countries including Horizon Europe research grants, Erasmus plus mobility funds, scholarships, support for TVET institutions, among others. The meeting agreed that the EU Delegation will make these opportunities more accessible to Kenyan institutions and researchers. The meeting further agreed to intensify synergies to promote Kenyan applications to Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe programs, and to enhance partnerships on Higher Education and Research. Future meetings will be held at least twice a year.