We officially opened the 16th International Health Conference, bringing together researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, educators, students, and industry partners to discuss practical solutions for strengthening health systems and advancing Universal Health Coverage.
The conference, jointly hosted by the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and the School of Pharmacy, is being held under the theme, "Building Resilient Health Systems Through Innovation, Equity, and Multisectoral Action to Advance Universal Health Coverage." It forms part of the ongoing Kabarak University International Research Conference Week 2026 (#KUIRCW26).
The day began with a courtesy call to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat, by the keynote speaker, Prof. Daniel A. Wubah, President of Millersville University, USA. He was accompanied by a distinguished delegation from Millersville University comprising Dr. Dan Kulmala, Assistant Vice President for International Programs and Services; Dr. Jeffrey Wimer, Professor of Wellness and Sports; Dr. Jeremiah Mbindyo, Professor of Chemistry; Dr. Margaret Mbindyo, Associate Professor of Exploratory Studies and Student Development; Dr. Kelly Kuhns, Professor and Chair of Nursing; Dr. Michele Chronister, Assistant Professor of Nursing; Dr. Bryan Weinberg-Wonsidler, Assistant Professor of Nursing; Dr. Susan Brackbill, Adjunct Professor of Nursing; Mr. Augustine Chebarwett, Adjunct Nursing Faculty; and Dr. Ben Chepkoit, Community Partnership Coordinator.
The courtesy call was also attended by several invited guests and representatives of partner institutions, Dr. Caroline Hunja, representing Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research; Dr. Kioko Mwania, representing Prof. Dickson Andala, CEO of the National Research Fund (NRF - Kenya); Prof. Joseph Rotich, Vice-Chancellor of Laikipia University; Dr. Lucy Kanani, representing Prof. Peter Muriungi, Vice-Chancellor of Tharaka University; Dr. Raphael Namwaru, representing Prof. Peninah Aloo-Obudho, Vice-Chancellor of Maasai Mara University; Prof. Tenge, representing Prof. Kiplagat Kotut, Vice-Chancellor of Moi University; Prof. Peter Melby, Director of the Center for Tropical Diseases at the University of Texas Medical Branch; and Dr. David Kimutai Melly, representing Prof. Charles Mulei, Vice-Chancellor of Bomet University.
The delegates later proceeded to Sawia Auditorium for the official opening ceremony.
In his opening remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat welcomed participants and emphasized the critical role of universities in producing healthcare professionals, advancing research, supporting innovation, and developing partnerships that strengthen health systems. He noted that resilient health systems can only be achieved through collaboration between academia, government, industry, healthcare providers, and communities.
The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted a significant milestone for the host schools, noting that both the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and the School of Pharmacy are celebrating ten years since their establishment. Over the past decade, the schools have grown into important centres for health sciences education, research, and community engagement in Kenya and the region.
Prof. Kiplangat officially declared the conference open before inviting the keynote speaker, Prof. Daniel A. Wubah, to deliver his address.
Speaking on the topic "Resilience by Design: Advancing Universal Health Coverage through Innovation and Equity," Prof. Wubah challenged institutions to intentionally build health systems capable of responding to emerging challenges while ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare. He highlighted the importance of innovation, strong leadership, sustainable financing, workforce development, and strategic partnerships in achieving Universal Health Coverage. He also underscored the unique role universities play in generating knowledge, driving innovation, and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Earlier, the Dean of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Prof. Pamela Kimeto, welcomed participants with a simple but powerful message. Using the story of three stone masons who viewed the same task differently, she reminded delegates that conferences are about more than presenting papers. They are opportunities to build knowledge, partnerships, and solutions that can improve lives long after the event has ended.
The conference also received remarks from representatives of national institutions and government agencies. Dr. Caroline Hunja delivered remarks on behalf of Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, while Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, joined virtually to share perspectives on the future of healthcare and the importance of research-informed policy and innovation.
The morning session concluded with a high-level panel discussion moderated by Dr. Michael Walekhwa and Ms. Mercy Singoei. The panel featured Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat, Prof. Daniel A. Wubah, Prof. Joseph Rotich, and representatives from government and research institutions. Discussions focused on healthcare workforce development, research collaborations, innovation, leadership, and the role of universities in building stronger and more resilient health systems.
In the afternoon, the conference transitioned into parallel scientific sessions, where researchers and students presented papers and posters across medicine, pharmacy, nursing, public health, nutrition, clinical sciences, health technology, pharmaceutical sciences, and health systems strengthening. The sessions provided an opportunity for participants to share findings, exchange ideas, and explore solutions to some of the most pressing healthcare challenges facing communities today.
The conference continues with additional scientific presentations, stakeholder engagements, and collaborative discussions aimed at translating research into practical solutions that improve healthcare delivery and contribute to healthier communities across Kenya, Africa, and beyond.
