The official opening ceremony for the highly anticipated 6th Multidisciplinary Conference and Innovation Week at the Technical University of Mombasa took place today. This event brought together scholars, industry leaders, innovators, students, and faculty members to share knowledge and explore innovative solutions to global challenges under the theme 'Transformative Innovation for Sustainable Development and Mitigation of Global Challenges.'
Leading up to the main event, a series of pre-conference workshops were held. These covered diverse topics such as career paths in tech, AI and cloud computing for research and innovation, and the European Union HORIZON Programme, featuring the cases of IAM COMPACT and FUELPHORIA Projects. These sessions provided a platform for students to engage with experts and gain valuable insights, setting a strong foundation for the discussions and innovations presented at the conference.
Upon arrival, His Excellency Hassan Ali Joho, the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, paid a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor. He then participated in a tree-planting ceremony, symbolizing a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship—aligning perfectly with the conference theme of transformative innovation for sustainable development. Following this, the CS inspected the Guard of Honour, which was mounted by the TUM Maritime Cadets from the Institute of Maritime and Seafaring Studies.
The Innovation Week truly came to life with impressive exhibitions showcasing the brilliant innovations created by TUM students. Led by Ms. Bibie Mahmoud, the chair of the Innovation Club, H.E. Joho, TUM management, and other guests toured the stalls, engaging with the innovators and experiencing their creative work firsthand.
The official opening ceremony took place at the TUM Assembly Hall, attended by the university's top leadership, including TUM Council member, Mr Muhammad Ali Loo, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Laila Abubakar, Deputy Vice-Chancellors Prof. Peter Gichangi and Prof. Joseph Rasowo, and Registrar of Partnership, Research, and Innovation Prof. Rahma Udu, alongside faculty members, students, and esteemed guests.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration, Finance, and Planning, Prof. Joseph Rasowo, welcomed the guests and reflected on TUM's remarkable achievements. He noted that the university is making significant strides in higher education, positioning itself among the top universities in Kenya. On the other hand, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic, Research, and Extension, Prof. Peter Gichangi, emphasized the critical role of the conference in fostering research, innovation, and knowledge-sharing within the academic community. He highlighted how such platforms contribute to the university’s mission of generating new ideas that address real-world challenges. He encouraged scholars to collaborate across disciplines and seek innovative solutions that can make a tangible impact on society.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Laila Abubakar welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in tackling global challenges. She highlighted the university’s commitment to expanding its academic offerings, announcing the establishment of the School of Medicine, which will make TUM the first institution in the Coast region to offer medical education. She also revealed that the university will launch a Nautical Science degree program in September 2025, aimed at equipping students with essential skills for the maritime industry. Furthermore, she noted that through the Institute of Maritime and Seafaring Studies, TUM is enhancing maritime education by offering STCW mandatory advanced courses, enabling Marine Engineer Officers to obtain training and certification locally. She expressed confidence that these initiatives would contribute to Kenya’s growth in the healthcare and maritime sectors.
Following her address, the chief guest, H.E. Hassan Ali Joho, delivered his keynote speech, focusing on the importance of translating research into practical, wealth-generating solutions. He challenged researchers and institutions of higher learning to go beyond publishing papers and focus on commercializing innovations that can create jobs and drive economic growth. Emphasizing the need for value addition, he encouraged the academic community to think of ways to generate wealth for Kenyans.
H.E. Joho also commended TUM’s efforts in strengthening maritime education, particularly in addressing the challenge of securing sea-time training for cadets. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the sector by aiming to have 100 Kenyan-owned or Kenyan-flagged vessels by next year, which will provide valuable internship opportunities for maritime students, including TUM cadets. He further expressed his interest in engaging directly with maritime students in an interactive session in the near future.
Recognizing the remarkable talent and creativity of young innovators, he applauded the various student-led projects showcased at the conference. Among them was a smart greenhouse innovation developed by TUM students, which aims to enhance agricultural productivity through automation and sustainable farming practices. In a significant show of support, he pledged land and capital to help bring this innovation to life, empowering students to implement their ideas for societal transformation.
The conference also included an engaging keynote speech by Professor Ioannis Tsipouridis, Director of RECCREC at TUM, a Renewable Energy Consultant Engineer, and Climate Action Advocate. He addressed the Quadruple Planetary Crisis, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat climate change and environmental degradation.
After the opening ceremony, academic paper presentations commenced, running concurrently with robotics and hackathon competitions. These activities will continue until tomorrow, allowing participants to showcase their research, technological advancements, and innovative problem-solving skills. The event promises to be a dynamic platform for intellectual exchange and creative collaboration, driving forward the theme of transformative innovation for sustainable development.
