Felix Koskei challenges universities to turn research into market solutions

Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, speaking at the 4th Commercialisation and Entrepreneurial Institutions Leaders’ Summit (CEIL 2025) in Mombasa, urged a bold shift from donor dependency to sustainable financing models that attract venture capital and incentivize private sector investment in research and development.

“Our challenge is not producing more research papers, but ensuring research translates into production, enterprise, food sufficiency, and better health outcomes," said Koskei.

He launched Student-Led Innovation Clubs in 11 universities, including the University of Nairobi, Daystar, USIU-Africa, and Zetech. 

“These clubs will incubate creativity and entrepreneurship, strengthening Kenya’s innovation pipeline,” added Koskei.

Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) CEO Dr. Tonny Omwansa revealed the Research-to-Commercialisation (R2C) Accelerator has already created 18 enterprises, 220 jobs, and raised Sh217 million. 

“We are now rolling out a Shared Technology Transfer Office, setting up the NEIL Innovation Fund, and expanding commercialisation support to more institutions,” he said.

Over 250 delegates, including vice chancellors, senior faculty, industry leaders, and policymakers, attended the summit. Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime stressed the role of innovation in tackling unemployment, while Science and Innovation PS Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak urged stronger patent generation to boost Kenya’s global competitiveness.