Maseno University Launches Centre for Applied Artificial Intelligence to Drive Community Innovation
Maseno University has officially launched the Maseno Centre for Applied Artificial Intelligence alongside a groundbreaking initiative on Artificial Intelligence for Community-Driven Innovation. The launch event, held at the University Amphitheatre, brought together students, lecturers, researchers and strategic partners to explore the transformative potential of AI in addressing real-world challenges.
The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with key partners, including Maskhane and Zone1, organizations recognized for their work in advancing AI-driven, community-focused solutions.
The event began with opening remarks from Dr. Calvins Otieno, the Dean School of Computing and Informatics wo welcomed the guests to the launch, Prof. Regina Nyunja, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Partnerships, Research and Innovation, who underscored the University’s commitment to fostering impactful research, strengthening partnerships and nurturing innovation for societal development. She subsequently invited Prof. David Ongarora, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration, Finance and Development, representing the Vice-Chancellor, to officially launch the Centre.
The launch provided a vibrant platform for engagement and knowledge exchange, with participants showcasing innovative ideas and projects that leverage artificial intelligence to promote local talent development, enhance research capacity and support sustainable partnerships.
In her keynote address, Prof. Regina Nyunja, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Partnerships, Research and Innovation, highlighted the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of artificial intelligence. She emphasized its growing relevance across sectors and its critical role in driving innovation, research and development.
Key thematic discussions during the workshop included methodologies for Learning Resource Laboratories (LRLs), AI and disability inclusion and the computing infrastructure required to support AI-driven research and innovation. These sessions provided participants with practical insights into the effective integration of AI in both academic and community contexts.
Dr. Lilian Wanzare highlighted the establishment of MCAAI as a transformative step for Maseno University, positioning it at the forefront of AI-driven innovation in the region. She emphasized that the Centre is not just a research unit, but a dynamic, interdisciplinary hub designed to bridge academia, industry, and community needs.
She underscored three core pillars:
Research Excellence & Innovation
MCAAI will drive cutting-edge AI research addressing real-world challenges—particularly in sectors such as Healthcare, Agriculture, Education ensuring solutions are locally relevant and globally competitive.
Capacity Building & Talent Development
A key priority is nurturing the next generation of AI professionals, scholars, and entrepreneurs through training programs, mentorship, and collaborative projects. The Centre aims to empower students and researchers with both technical expertise and ethical grounding in AI.
Industry & Community Engagement
Dr. Wanzare stressed the importance of partnerships with Industry, Government, and Local Communities to translate research into practical impact. MCAAI will serve as a bridge, ensuring AI innovations improve livelihoods and support sustainable development.
She concluded that MCAAI will be a milestone in Maseno University’s journey toward technological leadership, calling on stakeholders to collaborate in building an inclusive AI ecosystem that benefits society at large.