The 5th Engineering Partnerships Convention commenced at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology in Nyeri County, with this year’s theme being Engineering@60: Reflections, Response, Resetting.
The convention aims to provide a comprehensive platform for engineers, scientists, innovators, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, knowledge exchange, and envision the future of engineering.
Discussing the significance of the event, Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Muchiri emphasized their institution’s commitment to technology, with 92 per cent of their programs focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
He underscored the vital role engineering plays in fostering economic growth and enhancing citizens’ quality of life, citing a positive correlation between a country’s engineering capacity and its economic development.
Professor Muchiri highlighted efforts to encourage female enrollment in STEM courses, noting that female students often excel in these fields despite initial reluctance, with many graduating with first-class honours.
He also spoke about the Ol-Borana semiconductor manufacturing system, emphasizing its potential contributions to agriculture, biotechnology, and microelectronics.
The locally developed system, costing Ksh 25 million, positions Kenya as the first African country to produce semiconductor microchips, crucial components in electronic devices.
Regarding technology supply chain diversification, Professor Muchiri emphasized the importance of reducing dependency on East Asia and creating opportunities for local production.
He expressed optimism about Kenya’s role in expanding global supply in critical industries like semiconductors.
The Engineering Board of Kenya, in partnership with the Ministry of Roads and Transport, is hosting the Annual Engineering Partnerships Convention, providing a platform to address key engineering issues nationally, regionally, and globally.
The board’s mandate is crucial in ensuring Kenya has an adequate number of engineers to drive economic growth and meet the country’s developmental needs.
Its objectives include showcasing Kenya’s engineering innovations, reflecting on past achievements, addressing current challenges, strategizing for the future, and fostering collaboration among professionals, researchers, policymakers, academia, and industry leaders.
