The 5th International Technical University of Kenya - Exploring Visual Cultures Conference and Exhibition, hosted in collaboration with the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA) ended with a clarion call, to academic institutions to forge strong collaborations and linkages.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Research and Technology Development (RTD), Prof. Isaac Orina, said that partnering with the industry and other collaborators will help in nurturing talents and training highly skilled graduates who will change the region.
He explained that the country needs to think research and technology in order to achieve its vision. “I am glad to note that this conference has presented a sterling performance. It is therefore important for us to make use of such opportunities and uphold lessons we have learnt,” he added.
He thanked all participants and praised exhibitors saying that they had shared their thoughts through their art works either verbally or non-verbally.
The DVC said, “Our culture, heritage, visual images and other values are shared through art. These are strong elements with deeper meanings that should be embraced and help us move forward as a people.”
Dr. Avitha Sooful from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, said the event represented a significant milestone, dedicated to fostering growth through the exchange of knowledge among professionals within the creative and design community. “It is a platform for cultivating relevant and insightful discussions,” she said.
The Academic Team Leader, Department of Design, Dr. Mary Clare Kidenda, thanked the organizers and sponsors for bringing the event at TU-K. She noted that their dedication, time and hard work made the event possible and fruitful.
Students and participants from Ghana, Cameroon, Germany and United Kingdom made different presentations and exhibited their art works. The event was marked by a fashion show, music, performance and book launch.
This year’s event was themed; Artificial Intelligence (AI), Media Innovations, Applications, Visual Culture, Challenges, and Future Trends. It further signified topics such as harmony in disruption AI, disrupted creation process and finding a way to co-exist with AI in a creative way. Others included; Digital Transformation AI and ICT Reshaping Industries Al in Education Ecosystems, Human Centric Design and User Experience and Al Convergence, Bridging Disciplines for a Sustainable Future.
The conference was sponsored by Unesco, Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) University of Wolverhampton, Media Council of Kenya, KENIA, National Research Fund, Huawei, Engineers Board of Kenya, Riara University, Safaricom and Naivas.
