One of the key challenges innovators face, both globally and locally, is the hesitation to share ideas due to fear of them being taken or misused. At the same time, many grapple with an equally important question: how can I commercialize my idea to scale and create meaningful impact?

Today marked a bold step forward: a defining shift.

Strathmore University has officially launch of the Intellectual Property and Commercialization Policy. A comprehensive framework that recognises both individual and institutional intellectual property, while enabling stakeholders to effectively protect, manage and commercialise their innovations. The launch brought together student innovators, staff, researchers, and stakeholders keen on understanding how this policy will shape and support the innovation ecosystem. “It’s a gold mine that we have been sitting on, and this is a significant moment for us as an institution,” said Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Vice Chancellor Strathmore University .

Drawing from the Parable of the Talents, Mr. Robert Yawe emphasized the need to actively utilize and grow what we have been entrusted with. “Our research is rich, and we must learn to get it out there, translate it and extend its impact,” he noted.

Dr. Dr. Tonny K. Omwansa, PhD, CEO, Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), highlighted this as a much-needed shift, noting that universities sit at the core of driving sustainable impact through research and innovation. By nurturing disciplined thinkers and innovators, commercialization is no longer optional, it is essential in transforming ideas into enterprise and real-world impact.

As an institution grounded in the spirit of excellence, we are committed to building disciplined thinkers and innovators, with commercialization at the core of this journey. This initiative seeks to foster a strong culture of innovation and encourage the translation of ideas into market-ready solutions. Ultimately, this policy seeks to strengthen the pipeline of innovations, unlock the value of underutilized intellectual property, and create mutually beneficial opportunities for the University and its stakeholders.

Article written by: Jemmy M. Kamau