On 26 October 2016, the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology held its 19^th Annual Prestige Research Seminar, themed quest for excellence. 

The purpose of the seminar is to bring together researchers, post-graduate students, engineers, and scientists from the academia and industry to exchange ideas on the latest developments in engineering and information technology. It is also intended to stimulate research, encourage excellence, reward outstanding performance, and encourage the development of personal and professional networks.  In his welcome address, Prof. Yali Woyessa, Acting Dean: Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology shared with the audience the resources and strategies used to aid and encourage staff members and students to take part in research. 

He also highlighted the research entities that have been established within the faculty over the years. He also mentioned that one of the strategies that the faculty has adopted is developing a research culture among staff and students. “As the faculty, we want to be excellent not only in research, innovation, and entrepreneurship but also in teaching, learning and community engagement. It is clear that we can’t grow and develop our teaching and learning if we do not invest in research.” Prof. Alfred Ngowi Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement said that as a faculty they have established several building blocks that will assist academics to be excellent and relevant in their research. He also mentioned the two important aspects that can determine whether staff and students are excellent or not in their research. He mentioned the research output, which is publications, and a research that has a positive impact on the community. “We have the building blocks in place and believe that research has to change lives and solve problems that exist in our communities while publications must not only be relevant locally but have a global impact.” He also advised and encouraged academics to aim high and target global level when doing their research. “Always ensure that your research has relevance at a local level but a great impact on a global level,” he concluded. 

 

The seminar also served as a learning curve to academics who shared their research work as they received advice and constructive criticism from experienced academics in research and partners from the Industry.   

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1: Prof. Yali Woyessa, Acting Dean: Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology presenting his welcoming address during the research seminar. 

2: Seminar attendees.