The Universities Fund maximised on this year’s Kenya National Research Festival by showcasing its unique services.
During the show held from August 18-22 at Egerton University in Nakuru County, UF sensitised students, parents, and other stakeholders on government scholarships.
Stakeholders received demonstrations on how to apply for aid through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal. They also learned about the eligibility criteria and application timelines.
The festival drew researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, and community representatives to seek solutions to socioeconomic challenges facing the country.
The theme for this year’s edition was ‘Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security’. The conference provided a platform to highlight cutting-edge research, innovations, and emerging technologies that have the potential to transform livelihoods and enhance economic development.
The participants showcased practical approaches for boosting productivity and promoting agricultural resilience to combat climate change.
At the same time, UF’s Resource Mobilisation team held high-level discussions with potential partners on collaborative initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for learners.
The engagements focused on expanding scholarship opportunities for university students and promoting innovations that complement the government’s efforts in financing higher education.
By forging such partnerships, UF is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable financing ecosystem.
The agency continues to position itself as a key enabler in linking learners with job opportunities and collaborating with stakeholders to drive the conversation on sustainable higher education financing.
The event was significant given that the government is striving to implement the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which is dependent on research and innovation to address challenges in agriculture, food security, and economic growth, among others
The conference enabled UF to capitalise on publicity events that align with its commitment to ensuring that all learners access relevant information and opportunities in their pursuit of higher education.
The event also serves as a dynamic platform showcasing the country’s research endeavours, celebrating achievements, and facilitating networking opportunities among participants from research institutions to State agencies, entrepreneurs, and development partners.