We brought the curtain down on the Kabarak University International Research Conference Week 2026 (#KUIRCW26), marking the successful conclusion of five days of scholarly exchange, innovation, and collaboration that attracted researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and academic partners from Kenya and around the world.
The final day also marked Day Two of the 16th International Health Conference, jointly hosted by the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and the School of Pharmacy under the theme, "Building Resilient Health Systems Through Innovation, Equity, and Multisectoral Action to Advance Universal Health Coverage."
The day's programme began with a courtesy call to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat, by distinguished guests representing the healthcare sector, national regulatory bodies, and government institutions. The delegation included Mr. Patrick Kisabei, CEO/Registrar of the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board, and Ms. Jackline Misoy, Senior Education and Examination Officer, representing Dr. Lister Onsongo, Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing Council of Kenya. The meeting provided an opportunity to review the strong partnerships already in place while exploring new areas of collaboration in health sciences education, research, faculty exchange, clinical training, and community engagement.
Scientific sessions commenced with a presentation by Prof. Peter Melby, Director of the Center for Tropical Diseases at the University of Texas Medical Branch, who shared insights drawn from decades of research in tropical diseases and global health. His presentation highlighted the importance of collaborative research, innovation, and international partnerships in addressing emerging health challenges and improving healthcare outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Delegates also heard a keynote address by Dr. David G. Kariuki, Chief Executive Officer and Registrar of the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC). His presentation focused on strengthening healthcare systems through high-quality medical education, professional regulation, ethical practice, and continuous innovation, emphasizing the critical role of universities in preparing competent healthcare professionals who can respond to the country's evolving health needs.
The keynote sessions were followed by an engaging panel discussion that brought together experts from academia, healthcare, and research institutions to explore practical approaches to strengthening health systems, advancing Universal Health Coverage, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Participants discussed the growing importance of research partnerships, digital health, workforce development, and innovation in shaping resilient healthcare systems.
Throughout the afternoon, delegates participated in parallel scientific sessions featuring oral and poster presentations across medicine, pharmacy, nursing, public health, nutrition, clinical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, health technology, and health systems strengthening. The sessions provided a vibrant platform for researchers, practitioners, and students to present evidence-based solutions addressing some of today's most pressing healthcare challenges.
The closing ceremony, presided over by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat, officially marked the end of both the International Health Conference and the Kabarak University International Research Conference Week 2026. In his closing remarks, the Vice-Chancellor commended the organising committees, keynote speakers, presenters, sponsors, and participants for making the week a resounding success. He encouraged researchers to continue producing knowledge that not only advances scholarship but also delivers practical solutions that improve lives and transform communities.
This year's conference week showcased the breadth and depth of research across the University through four major international conferences hosted by the School of Business and Economics, the School of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, the School of Medicine and Health Sciences jointly with the School of Pharmacy, and the School of Science, Engineering and Technology. Together, the conferences featured hundreds of scientific papers, oral presentations, poster presentations, keynote addresses, and panel discussions covering subjects ranging from sustainable development and climate resilience to education, healthcare, artificial intelligence, engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, and emerging technologies.
As the University concludes another successful edition of #KUIRCW26, attention now turns to the School of Music and Media, whose International Research Conference is scheduled for September. With another successful conference week concluded, Kabarak University continues to strengthen its position as a leading centre for research, innovation, and academic excellence, providing a platform where ideas are shared, partnerships are forged, and research is translated into solutions that serve society.
