On May 5th 2015, KENET gave travel grants to five faculty members from member institutions to attend the IST-Africa 2015 conference which was held in Lilongwe, Malawi. The five faculty members are; Dr. Moses Thiga (Kabarak University), Dr. Ciira Maina (Dedan Kimathi University of Technology), Ms. Mary Njeri Ngaruiya (University of Nairobi), Mr. Elizaphan Muuro Maina (Kenyatta University), and Mr. Gabriel Ndungu Maina (Murang’a University College).

The main speakers at the conference were; Anthony Muyepa-Phiri, Director General, national Commission for science and Technology (Malawi), Morten Moller, Programme Coordination, DG Connect, European Commission (Belgium), Adil Sulieman, Africa Union Commission (Ethiopia), Lonely Magreta, permanent Secretary for Education, Science and Technology (Malawi), and Hon. Emmanuel Fabiano, M.P, Minister of education, Science and Technology, (Malawi).

“In their speeches it was noted that there is need to harmonize ICT policies in Africa and there was need to improve internet connectivity in Africa. In addition there was need for community empowerment through digital technology and use of solar power to enhance computer learning in schools in rural areas in most of the Africa regions. Members were also encouraged to exchange ideas and extend research ideas beyond their regions” said Mr. Maina.

The aim of the conference was to bring together leading scholars, experts and practitioners from Africa and beyond, the conference proved an excellent opportunity for networking and sharing experiences in the application of technology in the various areas. Projects, issues and initiatives were presented and the agenda featured valuable examples of how ICTs are being used in improving the livelihood of society.

“Kenya had a delegate of 10 people. It was a great honor to be part of Team Kenya and also an ambassador of Murang’a University College” Mr. Ndungu said.

The core thematic areas covered at conference were ICT4D, eAgriculture, eHealth. Innovation, Einclusion, Technology-enhanced Learning, Digital Libraries. eGovernment, Cyber Security and eInfrastructure.

Ms. Ngaruiya said, “The sessions gave a platform to different countries all over the world and was interesting to hear how every presenter contextualized the local problem and local solution for their country.Am glad I was part of this as I got to highly network which is a great motivator in my young promising research life”.