Ministry of Education State Department for University Education and Research Principal Secretary (PS), Amb. Simon Nabukwesi commissioned the opening of Laboratories of National Institute for Optics and Lasers, NIOL, at the Multimedia University of Kenya.
Nabukwesi, who spoke at the Multimedia University, Nairobi, Friday, praised the institution for being pioneers and having created an institute unlike any other in this region.
“I would like to sincerely thank the National Research Fund (NRF) for considering the Multimedia University proposal and funding these labs, my hope is that the institute will be a leading research hub for Kenya and the region,” he said.
Nabukwesi noted the World is in the beginning of the 4th Industrial Revolution, which is characterized both by technological advancement and a knowledge economy.
“We are using laser technology to communicate and transmit data across the world. In the medical field, lasers are used to treat eyes, undertake non-invasive operations and even treat cancer,” said the PS.
He stated that Research, Innovation, and Technology are key drivers of economic growth and transformations around the world.
“Through research and innovation, universities provide the foundations and impetus necessary for such transformations as they train graduates, who are not only ready for immediate absorption into a technologically oriented economy, but also grounded enough to be fully functional in an ever-changing work environment,” said the PS.
“This country has been a leader in the region in terms of education, manufacturing, and investment, so we must continue to uphold those standards,” he added.
Nabukwesi expressed optimism regarding government support for institutions that show innovation, entrepreneurship, and active connections with communities and industries.
“Such universities will be given first priority in incentives by the government and bilateral partners, so that they can grow their particular niches and deepen their research capacity,” he said.
Amb., Vice-Chancellor of Multimedia University Prof Festus Kaberia stated that laboratories are a springboard for a new era in the University.
“We are grateful for this day because the facility has made a mark in the landscape of Kenyan Universities,” he said.
Ms Citah watanga, Dean of Multimedia University’s Faculty of Science and Technology, said that the facility was an answer to current technological trends and will address the skill gap in market.
“We have greatly increased the capacity of our school with a plan to develop more and more class programs,” she said.
Watanga emphasized the Institution’s gratitude to NRF for their generous fund that actualized their laboratories.
By Mike Mulinge
Source: kenyanews
