Research to Commercialization (R2C) Training of Trainers (TOT) training

Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology hosted a hands-on research-to-commercialization training event on August 17th and 18th, 2023. This training was made possible through the generous sponsorship of several organizations, including PAN African Chemistry Networks, Royal Society of Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry for Sustainable Development, Kenya Chemical Society - Western Chapter, Viktoria Ventures, and Kenya National Innovation Agency.

During this training, a diverse group of researchers, including postgraduate students from all faculties at JOOUST, engaged in comprehensive discussions covering various topics. These topics encompassed a shift in mindset, strategies for commercialization, and criteria for protecting products.

Ms. Maureen Ochako, the Program Manager at R2C, emphasized that the primary motivation behind this training was to ensure that research does not remain confined to libraries and databases as mere publications. Instead, the aim is to facilitate its journey to the market, where it can address real societal challenges.

The mission of R2C is to create a supportive environment for research-to-commercialization efforts in Kenya and Ethiopia's Jimma University. This is achieved by demonstrating the value of commercialization and empowering individuals and institutions to make informed decisions that foster commercialization. Additionally, Ms. Kobura Ismalia, a visiting Master's student from Makerere University, shared insights with the audience.

Regarding the mindset shift, participants learned that one's mindset is a collection of beliefs that shape their perception of the world and themselves. It significantly influences their thoughts, emotions, and actions in various situations. What one believes about themselves can greatly impact their level of success or failure.

Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology has established an Institutional Commercialization team, which includes Dr. Elijah Museve, Dr. Richard Magwanga, and Dr. Solomon Omwoma. Dr. Omwoma, who serves as an Intellectual Property coordinator at JOOUST, delivered a presentation on Intellectual Property Rights. JOOUST Enterprise Ltd is a registered company fully owned by JOOUST, and its primary objective is to enhance resource mobilization within the university through the commercialization of research ideas.