Meru University of Science and Technology, through the Directorate of RICE, successfully hosted the 2026 Faculty & Researchers Breakfast Meeting on Monday, 16 February 2026, bringing together academic leaders, faculty members, and researchers for a morning of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to research excellence and innovation.
Held in a collegial and engaging atmosphere, the meeting provided a platform for strengthening collaboration, sharing institutional priorities, and celebrating outstanding scholarly achievements. A key highlight of the gathering was the presentation of awards for Best Researcher, Best Innovator, and Best Publishing Faculty Researcher, recognizing individuals whose work continues to elevate the university’s research profile and societal impact
Leadership Remarks and Institutional Vision
Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. E. Walubuka, who reiterated the importance of adherence to university performance standards and legal frameworks.
Dr. S. Karanja emphasized the urgent need to strengthen research output, urging faculty to actively contribute to knowledge creation.
Prof Simon Thuranira recognized faculty members across all schools, acknowledging their dedication and collective contribution to academic excellence.
UASU Secretary General Mr. Mulwa, commented on the successes achieved from the dialogue between the UMB and the Union.
Prof. Hilda Omae expressed appreciation for the women present, recognizing their growing impact and leadership in academia.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Romanus Odhiambo, reaffirmed his profound support for research and emerging innovations. He invited faculty members with outstanding research achievements to stand in recognition, highlighting their contributions and inspiring peers to pursue excellence. He urged all faculty members to make efforts in sourcing for external funding.
Research Agenda and Capacity Building
Dr. Cynthia Mugo outlined the university’s goal of establishing a Graduate School to strengthen postgraduate training and research capacity. She showcased the university’s current postgraduate publications, academic exchange opportunities and the challenges the division faces.
Ms. Ruth Gibendi guided participants on how to identify Google Scholar–indexed journals, equipping faculty with practical tools to enhance research visibility and credibility.
Father Dr. Kinoti delivered a presentation on the importance of ethics in research, underscoring integrity, accountability, and compliance as foundational principles of scholarly work.
Dr. Grace Gakii presented on the MUST journal, outlining its role in enhancing research visibility and scholarly publishing at the university.
Prof. Amos Omamo presented an overview of publications across all schools, with faculty applauding the best publishing schools for their exemplary output. He outlined the current external grants acquired by Meru University and gave a proposal for acquiring a grants officer.
Celebrating Achievement
The Vice Chancellor later conferred the Chancellor’s Awards, honoring the Best Researcher, Dr. Joy Riungu,
Best Innovator, Dr. Daniel Maitethia
Best Publishing Faculty Researcher, Dr. Alfred Mariga
The recognition ceremony underscored the university’s commitment to fostering a vibrant research culture and rewarding excellence.
Strengthening a Culture of Research and Innovation
The breakfast meeting reaffirmed the university’s commitment to advancing impactful research, strengthening ethical scholarship, and promoting innovation-driven solutions to societal challenges. Participants left inspired and motivated to deepen collaboration and contribute to a thriving research ecosystem.
As the university continues to invest in research excellence and capacity development, such engagements remain vital in shaping a future defined by knowledge, innovation, and transformative impact.