Varsity Hosts Inaugural Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Research Conference

On July 11 2024, Chuka University marked a significant milestone with the inaugural Research Conference for the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. Themed “Leveraging Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation in Humanities and Social Sciences for Sustainable Development,” the event drew over 200 participants from Kenya and beyond. 

During the opening ceremony, Dr. Christopher Kiboro, the Dean of the Faculty, expressed his gratitude to the faculty members for their support and teamwork, which brought his vision for the deanship to fruition. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry Mutembei commended the Faculty for organizing the conference and challenged other faculties and schools to undertake similar research initiatives with a multidisciplinary approach.

The highlight of the event was a compelling keynote address by the Chief Guest, H.E. Prof. Kivutha Kibwana. He emphasized the significance of multidisciplinary research in addressing today’s complex challenges. Prof. Kibwana highlighted the importance of integrating knowledge from various disciplines to solve societal issues through teaching and research. He praised the Faculty’s efforts and urged them to make the conference an annual event central to Chuka University’s identity. He also encouraged the university to continue forging partnerships with the private sector, positioning Chuka University as a hub for innovative research and dissemination of findings.

In his concluding remarks, Prof. Kibwana challenged scholars to pursue globally recognized research, market their findings across various sectors, and engage in multidisciplinary consultancies for sustainable development. He emphasized the importance of academic mentorship and advocated for systems to develop research skills among students and faculty. Prof. Kibwana also encouraged the use of academic platforms like LinkedIn to showcase research work, enhancing global presence.

The conference also featured the unveiling of the first edition of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences newsletter. Additionally, a part-time lecturer Bonface Nyamweya launched a book titled “The Weight of Black Tongues”, adding to the day’s highlights. Recognition was given to Trizah Apuko, the first incubatee at Chuka University’s commercialization hub in the science research park. Chuka University is supporting Trizah, in commercializing her innovation—sanitary pads made from banana stems in Kenya and globally. The university’s goal is to assist her in bringing this product to market, showcasing its commitment to fostering innovative solutions for societal challenges.