Strathmore University surged ahead in 2024, pushing the boundaries of research and innovation. From novel technologies to addressing Africa’s pressing challenges, the University continues to lead as a beacon of ingenuity and excellence.

One of the year’s standout achievements was spearheaded by Dr. Muchiri Henry and his team at the School of Computing and Engineering Sciences (SCES). Their groundbreaking project leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to combat illegal logging in Kenyan forests, providing a high-tech solution to preserve the country’s diminishing natural resources.

Another notable achievements was Eng. Dr. Julius Butime, Dean of the School of Computing and Engineering Sciences, being named Kenya’s Faraday Battery Ambassador. As a trailblazer in electrical engineering, Dr. Butime is dedicated to transforming Africa through innovative energy storage solutions, pivotal for meeting the continent’s growing energy demands

Innovation was further showcased through the Strathmore UNESCO Chair on Climate Change Resilience and Sustainability, which piloted Sunsafe in Machakos County. Developed by Anne Wacera Wambugu, this innovative app revolutionizes the deployment of Component-Based Solar PV Systems (CBSS). By simplifying system sizing and compatibility checks, Sunsafe empowers users to ensure safe and efficient installations, supporting clean energy adoption across communities.

In the agriculture sector, the Strathmore Agri-Food Innovation Centre (SAFIC) domiciled at the Strathmore Business School (SBS) was launched in 2024. The Centre is dedicated to establishing a Community of Practice (CoP) focused on Agricultural Markets Data for Investment & Growth (AMDIG). Operating under its core pillars of data analytics, research, and innovation, the center is poised to drive transformative initiatives in the agricultural sector.

Strathmore’s commitment to collaboration and knowledge exchange flourished in 2024. Notable partnerships included a joint initiative with Imperial College London under the UK-Kenya University Partnerships program. This initiative saw the launch of the inaugural Learning and Design Lab, focusing on climate resilience solutions.

In another landmark collaboration, Fortescue and Strathmore University signed an MoU at the Africa Energy Forum in Nairobi to propel green energy and hydrogen production in Africa. This partnership aims to build a robust green hydrogen innovation ecosystem, nurturing talent, fostering regional expertise, and accelerating Kenya’s transition to renewable energy.

The launch of the Africa Green Hydrogen Hub, a collaboration with Curtin University and Griffith University, Australia, demonstrated Strathmore’s alignment with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). This pioneering initiative positions green hydrogen as a transformative energy solution, addressing energy accessibility while combating climate change.

The Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC) continued to make headlines with its innovative contributions to sustainable energy. In collaboration with Government Of Makueni County, #UKPACT, and the World Resources Institute, SERC commissioned an On-grid Solar PV project at the Makueni County Referral Hospital. Adding to this success, SERC launched a ten-year clean energy plan for Makueni County, reinforcing Strathmore’s role as a leader in sustainable development.

In collaboration with Standard Chartered, @iBizAfrica launched Cohort 7 of the Women in Tech Program, focusing on sustainability and technology-driven entrepreneurship. Over 80 female entrepreneurs participated in the #SCWomenInTech Bootcamp, acquiring essential skills to pivot their businesses toward sustainable and socially responsible practices.

Strathmore also introduced the USAID-funded Women Entrepreneurship Incubator Program (WEIP), targeting women-owned small and growing businesses (WO-SGBs)in sectors such as agribusiness, textiles, healthcare, and water and sanitation.

Innovation continued to define the Strathmore University student experience, with creativity shining brightly at the forefront. One of the year’s highlights was the 3rd Ideas Festival, a vibrant platform where students from diverse faculties showcased their ingenuity. The festival promoted cross-disciplinary collaboration, inspiring creativity and fostering a culture of innovation that transcends academic boundaries.

Five enterprising students from the School of Computing and Engineering Sciences; Andy Onyango Junior, Gabriel Musyoki, Morris Murigi, Jeremy Kering, and Calvin Kinyanjui., unveiled Afterlife, a groundbreaking project that transforms old batteries into eco-friendly products. This ingenious solution tackled pressing environmental issues while fostering employment opportunities, earning them a well-deserved second place in the prestigious Enactus Battery Challenge.

The university’s innovative prowess extended to other platforms as well. Dhanushi Savla, Keith Brian, Norah Kimathi, Noah Midikira, and Alvin Nyandeje, under the banner of ‘Regen Riders,’ electrified the Enactus Battery Challenge by proposing enhanced electric motorcycle efficiency, securing a stellar second-place finish. Meanwhile, Andy Onyango Junior and Trevor Atela, fourth-year BSEEE students, presented a revolutionary project on solar systems for rural hospitals using hydrogen storage at Makerere University, Uganda, clinching another prestigious second-place award.

In an inspiring achievement, Michelle Wafula, a 19-year-old Electrical and Electronics Engineering student, triumphed at the 7th Atoms Empowering Africa Competition, showcasing her innovative ideas on nuclear energy for sustainable development. Her victory placed her among Africa’s brightest minds advocating for cleaner energy solutions.

To crown it all, the University celebrated its inaugural Research Excellence Awards, honoring exceptional contributions in Early Career, System User of the Year, and Overall Researcher categories. These recognitions, alongside the launch of the SAIRC 2024-2028 Strategic Plan, cement Strathmore’s position as a hub for transformative research.

As we reflect on the incredible strides made in 2024, the horizon for 2025 promises even greater achievements in research and innovation. With a firm commitment to pushing boundaries, fostering collaboration, and addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges, the University is set to amplify its impact.

From leveraging cutting-edge technologies to nurturing talent and driving sustainable development, Strathmore remains steadfast in its mission to shape a brighter, more sustainable future. As the curtain rises on a new year, all eyes are on Strathmore to continue its legacy of excellence and ingenuity, ensuring that 2025 will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Article written by Stephen Wakhu