Varsity Hosts KeNIA Officials for Presidential Innovation Award Due Diligence Visit

Chuka University welcomed officials from the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) for a due diligence exercise related to the Presidential Innovation Award. The visit focused on the shortlisted innovation “Safe Sanitary Pads from Banana Fibres” by Pamela Apuko, which was presented under the Climate Action and Green Energy thematic area.

The visiting officers included Mr. Samuel Njehu, Principal Education Officer in charge of the Presidential Innovation Award, and Mr. Davis Orina, Innovation Officer for the same program. Their objective was to verify and assess the innovation’s feasibility, impact, and originality ahead of the final award selections.

The innovation, which offers an eco-friendly and sustainable solution to menstrual hygiene using banana fibres, has garnered national attention for addressing both environmental and health challenges.

Present during the visit were the Vice Chancellor of Chuka University, Deputy Vice Chancellors, the Finance Officer, Registrar Academics, the TISC (Technology and Innovation Support Centre) Coordinator and Mentor, TISC Secretariat members, and Mr. James Mutuku, co-innovator of the project.

The Presidential Innovation Award, spearheaded by KeNIA, aims to recognize and support groundbreaking innovations nationwide. Chuka University’s active involvement reflects its growing commitment to research, sustainability, and youth-led solutions to contemporary challenges.