Prof. Robert Gichira (centre from left) and DVC- ARSA  Prof. Samuel Muriithi together with faculty members pose for a group photo on 30^th January 2026, Nairobi campus.

By Timothy Oiro

[Nairobi: 30th January 2026] Prof. Robert Gichira, a consultant on with over 30 years of experience in Strategy and Entrepreneurship, facilitated a one-day orientational workshop for members of Senate and Management on how Daystar can transition to an entrepreneurial and innovation University.

In a presentation titled “Innovative and Entrepreneurial Universities”, Prof. Gichira outlined strategies on how institutions of higher learning can transit towards an entrepreneurial hub.  He noted these included, but not limited to:

• Collaborative teaching and learning with industry players by employing the 80/20 rule.
• Undertaking collaborative contracts, research and development with industry players in order to enhance socio-economic development with 85% to 90% research consumed by industry players.
• Designing and institutionalizing an entrepreneurship development program within the university.
• University Research and Development strategy linked to strategic plans of the government and the private sector.
• Schools and departments within the University to specialize and conduct research journals which are internationally recognized.
• Creation of Research and development journals and awards scheme for enhancing resource mobilization.

The event, held at the Nairobi Campus Council Room was attended by the DVC-ARSA, Prof. Samuel Muriithi, and coordinated by the Director of Academic Affairs Dr. Dinah Keino.

Giving the devotion, the Deputy University Chaplain Rev. Susan Siole, reflected on how Joseph managed available resources during years of plenty in Egypt to enable the nation to survive a seven-year famine. She elucidated key major views on biblical entrepreneurship:

• Provide an actionable and innovative solution geared towards an economic plan- Joseph was able to identify opportunities and develop a strategic plan.
• Stewardship- Joseph ensured there was enough storage of grain and kept constant records of inventory.
• Through divine wisdom, Joseph was able to supply other neighboring nations and regions.

She punctuated her remarks by encouraging the participants to embrace preparation, integrity and value of excellence as a blessing of God and service to humanity.

Prof. Muriithi gave opening remarks with a presentation titled “Where are we heading to as a University?”  He compared the traditional concept of education with that of an entrepreneurial University, underscoring that institutions of higher learning are shifting from the traditional mode of learning and teaching research towards entrepreneurship and innovation.

“Due to changing dynamics that necessitate ability to meet students’ needs and expectations, universities are moving towards entrepreneurship and innovation,” he said.  He highlighted characteristics of an entrepreneurial university as including: teaching research and economic development; patents, spinoffs and collaborative innovations; knowledge creation and developing economic values benefit the whole community.

Prof. Muriithi further urged the Government to ensure policies and legislations that incentivise research and development, and ensure that at least 85-90% of research is consumed by government and industry players.

Prof. Gichira concluded his presentation by tasking each School to prepare a report on how Daystar University can identify potential business opportunities and innovative programmes within Mavoko Sub County in Machakos county.

In his workshop rationale, Prof. Gichira revealed that the strategic mission of top-ranking universities has moved from traditional  teaching, research and technological development towards the “third mission of innovation and entrepreneurship” whose strategic focus is to enhance student outreach and revenue generation through teaching and learning, Research & Development, technology development, collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship.

The workshop aimed at building Daystar University’s institutional capacity to respond to ever increasing demands against modern-day realities of reduced financial resources and the ever-changing economic and demographic environment.

Prof. Robert Gichira interacting with one of the participants during a group discussion