CNEAT Research Project
MUST Launches the Competence Network for E-Inclusion and Assistive Technologies (CNEAT) Research Project
On Thursday, 15th October 2020, the Meru University of Science and Technology played host to the Principal Secretary, State Department for University Education and Research, Ambassador Simon Nabukwesi and the National Research Fund, Ag. Chief executive Officer, Dr. Jemimah Onsare. Our Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center was the point of convergence for the Competence Network for E-Inclusion and Assistive Technologies (CNEAT) research project event. The innovative project funded by the National Research Fund (NRF) is integrating assistive technology in schools for children who are differently abled.
The CNEAT researchers and innovators are training tutors and caregivers, creating studying manuals, disseminating assistive technology skills and knowledge through exhibitions, conferences, seminars, workshops and social media platforms. This has proven to be successful with differently abled students gaining interest in technology and increasing participation within the schools.
The Principal Secretary assured the CNEAT team and University Management of support by the Government of Kenya for provision of quality and relevant University education aimed at achieving the Big Four Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals.
“Through CNEAT, children who are abled differently are capable of handling a wider range of activities independently such as reading and writing documents, communicating with others and searching for information on the internet. This will give them an opportunity to flourish through boosting their self-esteem, self-image, sense of self-worth and confidence as well as grant them potential to lead fulfilling lives and to contribute to the social, cultural and economic growth in their communities.” Amb. Simon Nabukwesi.
At Meru University of Science and Technology, we align our research agenda with the national research agenda, specifically encrypting the themes of the Big Four Agenda. The focal points being food security (water, horticulture, milk and meat value addition, nutrition, waste management), manufacturing (building materials), affordable universal health care (diagnostic and preventive health) and affordable housing.
The National Research Fund (NRF) Ag. C.E.O Dr. Jemimah Onsare applauded the CNEAT research team led by the MUST Director, Research Development and Extension (RDE) and of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre (IEC) Dr. Guyo Huka for meticulously executing the research goals presented while seeking funding for the timely project. Dr. Onsare assured innovators of support by NRF in facilitating research for the advancement of Science, Technology and Innovation.
Our Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Romanus Odhiambo spoke on the importance of Universities collaborating on research projects. “
As an institution, we recognize that coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress and working together is success. This is why Meru University has partnered with like-minded institutions. We are glad to have Muranga University of Technology and Kenya Methodist University on board as we train Engineering and Information Technology students to help implement the program. MUST has inscribed student exposure to the market industry in our method of nurturing problem-solving graduates. We believe that linkages such as private partnerships within ICT and Innovation are essential in establishing solid foundations for exponential development in our research fields.” Prof. Romanus Odhiambo.
The Management, Faculty, Staff and Students of Meru University of Science and Technology are a family devoted to continually supporting and devising new solutions through science, technology and research.
We are proud of the CNEAT team!
In this photo is Ms. Dorothy Bundi one of the innovators in the CNEAT project at the incubation center in Meru University.