A hybrid training workshop titled "Presentation and Grant Writing Skills was held from 28th to 30th April 2025. The event targeted postgraduate students, early-career researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and professionals across various disciplines to enhance their research skills. The focus of the workshop was to empower the attendees to craft persuasive research proposals with high potential for success in addition to developing exceptional presentation skills for academic settings.
The forum attracted participants from institutions including the Early Career Research Skills Hub, Kibabii University, Mama Ngina University, Maseno University, Daystar University, the University of Nairobi, and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), among others.
One of the keynote speakers at the workshop launch, was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Technology Development, Prof Alfred Orina. In his address, he stressed the significant role of research in academia, describing it as the foundation of academic progress. Prof. Orina further highlighted recent advancements at TU-K, which include twenty-eight active proposals seeking to attract funding. The submissions were made between January and March 2025.
The training was led by industry experts including Prof. Collins Ouma from Maseno University, Dr. Patrick Owoche from Kibabii University, and Dr. George Obiero from TU-K. They were supported by the following facilitators: Dr. Victor Aliata, Dr. Kennedy Chepukosi, Dr. James Nyariki, and Dr. Fredrick Mbui.
Dr Owoche guided the participants on how to build a strong brand and identity within the context of research. He elaborated on how participants could leverage social media to build a distinct academic identity and enhance the visibility of their research.
The workshop, backed by the Association of Commonwealth Universities, TU-K, and Kibabii University, provided invaluable insights for aspiring researchers, fostering a culture of excellence in grant writing and presentations.
