DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

University
Profile 2021
University Profile
Editorial
Team

Magazine Coordinator
Dr. Eddy Owaga

Chief Editor
Faith Mutheu

Managing Editor
Risper Thuku

Editors
Winnie Aketch

Pictures
Antony Maundu

Guest Editor
Esther Kaburu

Contributors
Content for this publication
has been developed by
University Staff and designed
and printed by Waka Media
 Table of
Contents

Members of DeKUT Council...............................................................................................1

Members of the University Management Board....................................................................2
Governance......................................................................................................................3
A Message from t he Council Chairperson..............................................................................3
A Message from the Vice Chancellor..................................................................................4
University History .............................................................................................................5
Human Resource Development...........................................................................................6
Dedan Kimathi Science and Technology Park (DeST-Park).....................................................8
DeKUT Film, Animation & Gaming Hub............................................................................10
Dedan Kimathi Innovation and Incubation Hub (DeHUB)....................................................12
University Farm...............................................................................................................14
Dedan Kimathi University Wildlife Conservancy................................................................15
Centre For Biomass Energy Studies...................................................................................17
Centre For Development Of Electronic Devices...................................................................19
Centre For Excellence In Competence Based Education Training (CCBET).............................20
Siemens Centre...............................................................................................................21
Centre For Innovation And Entrepreneurship Management (CIEM)......................................22
Centre For Industrial Productivity And Engineering (CIPE)...................................................23
Centre for Coffee Technology & Food Safety......................................................................25
Startup Centre.................................................................................................................27
Making A Difference In Our Students’ Lives Through Newly Created Departments................28
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology Office of Career Services (DeKUTOCS)..................28
DeKUT Financial Aid Office (DeFAO)................................................................................30
Pictorials.........................................................................................................................32
Academic Programs.........................................................................................................34
 VISION
To be a Premier Technological University Excelling in Quality Education, Research and Technology
Transfer for National Development.

MISSION
To provide an academically stimulating, culturally diverse and quality learning environment that
fosters research, innovation and technology development towards producing relevant technical and
managerial human resource and leaders to contribute to the attainment of national development
goals.

PHILOSOPHY
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology is founded on the belief that self-actualization and solutions
to global challenges are attainable through a spirit of dedication, self–confidence, determination,
and best utilization of resources. The institution also believes in being globally competitive through
the employment of global competencies. To actualize its beliefs and goals, the University is committed
to investing in her staff, facilities and systems to ensure an internationally excellent environment for
education and further her aims and objectives. The ultimate goal of this philosophy is to mould
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology into an institution known for world-class research, academic
excellence, exceptional staff and students, and one that harbors the highest level of innovation,
creativity, scholarship and enterprises.

CORE VALUES
i .Innovation
ii .Scholarship
iii .Integrity
iv .Diversity
v .Teamwork
 MEMBERS OF DeKUT COUNCIL

Council Chairperson Prof. Eng. P. Ndirangu Kioni Dr. Janet Wahito Kabeberi
Dr. Jane Nyakang’o Vice Chancellor Macharia
B. Sc. (KU), MBA (UoN), M. Sc. (IHE- BSc (UoN), PhD (Cambridge) LLB (UoN), Dip in Law (KSL), Dip.
Delft-Netherlands), PhD (UoN). in Women’s Law (Women’s Institute
Oslo), LLM (Columbia Univ., USA),
PhD (Law Univ. of Warwick, UK)

Mr. Raphael Anampiu Mr. Kennedy Adongo Prof. Ruthie C. Rono

B. Com., MBA (UoN), ACCA BEd (Moi Univ.), MA (UoN) MA (Educ. Psychology, Univ. of
(Strathmore Univ.) Cincinnati, USA), PhD (Educ.
Psychology, KU), BA (Edu. Psychology)
Bethel College, India

Dr. Roselida Owuor

Bachelor of Science in Biological
Sciences (Egerton University), Master
of Philosophy in Reproductive Biology
(UoN), PhD in Cell & Molecular Biology
(Maseno University) - Representing
Principal Secretary, State Department for
University Education and Research

1 University
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 MEMBERS OF THE UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT BOARD

Vice Chancellor- Deputy Vice Chancellor – Registrar (Academic Affairs &

Prof. Eng. P. Ndirangu Kioni Administration and Finance Research)-
BSc (UoN), PhD (Cambridge) (A&F)- Prof. J. W. Khamasi, EBS
Prof. Esther N. Magiri BEd (UoN), MEd (Univ. of New
B. Sc., M. Sc. (UoN), PhD (Zhejiang Brunswick, CA), PhD (Univ. of British
Univ., PR China), Post Doc (Tel Aviv Columbia, CA)
Univ., Israel)

Ag. Registrar (Administration & Ag. Finance Officer-

Finance)- CPA Abraham Mwangi
Dr. Paul Mbote BBA (KeMU), MBA (DeKUT), CPA (K)
B. Sc. (JKUAT), M. Sc. (Univ. of
Sunderland, UK), PhD (DeKUT)

2 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 GOVERNANCE
A MESSAGE FROM THE COUNCIL CHAIRPERSON,
DR. JANE NYAKANG’O

opportunities, especially to our graduates. To

facilitate the success of the Dedan Kimathi Science
and Technology Park (DeST-Park), the University’s
council has approved the establishment of centers
and accompanying policies geared at enabling
the development of a research and innovation
eco-system of the University. The Science and
Technology Park will create high-tech clusters to
serve as catalysts to technology development,
economic transformation, and wealth creation with
a link to university knowledge generation.

The University Council has approved the Council has

also approved the establishment of nineteen (19)
specialized research and innovation centers most of
which are already operational and a few are in the
formative stages. We have also set up framework

D
under which private companies and businesses
edan Kimathi University of Technology can be established at the DeST-Park. As a start,
has blossomed into the Premier University the University partnered with the Semiconductor
of Technology in the country and in the Technologies Limited whose operations at the
region and this has attracted students from across University began whose operations at the University
the continent. In 2019, the University was ranked began in 2020 and was commissioned by the
as the most preferred University in the country, President in April of this year 2021. We have also
with a 98 percent uptake of its declared capacity set up a framework under which the University
being occupied, and in 2020, this rose to 98.8%. has also ensured staff welfare and development.
A high number of the academic staff members
The University infrastructure has also grown, and have acquired their PhDs or are in the process of
the student population has grown tremendously. acquiring them. We are aiming at getting to the
In the last four years that I have been in office, next level and growing this number by 90% in the
the student population at the University has grown next few years.
from six thousand seven hundred and seventy-one
(6771) to nine thousand two hundred and thirty- I take this opportunity to thank the government for
six (9,236). its support through the Ministry of Education, State
Department for University Education and Research.
The University remains committed to providing an The University, being a government-funded public
academically stimulating, culturally diverse, and university, has benefited from this support. It has
quality learning environment that fosters research, grown in the last few years and continues to focus
innovation, and technology development towards on its core business as a University of Technology.
producing relevant technical and managerial
human resource and leaders to contribute to the
attainment of national development goals.

In line with this, we are spearheading the

establishment of a Science and Technology Park.
The Science and Technology Park will catalyze the
development of new companies, attract international
partners, and create high-quality jobs for young
people. As it grows, it will provide employment

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 3

 A MESSAGE FROM THE VICE CHANCELLOR, PROF., ENG.
NDIRANGU KIONI

W
elcome to the 2021 Special Profile Edition.
The purpose of this edition is to highlight
some of the University’s special initiatives
as well as some of the significant milestones it has
achieved since its inception.
The University is evolving its uniqueness through
education, research, and technology transfer to meet
the technological needs of the Kenya Vision 2030.
To successfully achieve this, we have established
a Science and Technology Park to encourage
cooperation and synergy between universities,
research institutions, government, and the private
sector to create a favorable environment for innovation,
renovation, and training. Dedan Kimathi University
Science and Technology Park (DeST-Park) covers
three thematic areas, which are: Agri-tech (Food
bio-resources and natural products value-addition),
Information and Communication Technology (ICT),
and Design, Materials and Manufacturing (DMM). So
that can be marketed widely. The University has
far, DeST-Park has attracted anchor clients; Snowcap
also signed various MOUs agreements with several
Development Limited, Asytec, and Semiconductor
organizations/institutions. To list but a few we have
Technologies Limited.
an MOU with the center for International Migration,
the Africa Bio-Energy Programme Limited (AFBL),
In April this year, the President of the Republic of
and Biogas Kenya with who we have partnered
Kenya, H. E. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, presided over
to set up a center of excellence in biomass energy
the launch of Semiconductor Technologies Limited.
under the Center for Biomass Energy Studies (CBES).
The company, which is the only one of its kind in
The University and the Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer
Africa, manufactures nanotechnology products such
Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) recently signed
as integrated circuits and sensors used in electronic
a grant agreement for the Green Climate Fund (GCF)
gadgets for the global market. Its products have a high
project which is being implemented by the DeKUT
demand and are used in electronic gadgets such as
Centre for Biomass Energy Studies To further support
mobile phones, televisions, and laptop computers. The
our students, we have also established departments
establishment of Semiconductor Technologies Limited
such as the office of career services which is geared
(STL) will provide the Science and Technology Park
towards helping students explore and develop their
and the University with crucial local and international
careers through Industry linkages and mentorship
linkages contributing to intellectual property outputs.
programs. The office will also support alumni by
continuously engaging them and helping them secure
We have also experienced a lot of growth in various
employment where possible. The University has also
ways. New strategic alliances and collaborations with
established the Awhich also has a robust work-study
various like-minded organizations have been formed
program that allows students to work while studying
to empower our students with superior skills and the
within the University to earn an income and learn from
requisite mindset needed to deal with the challenges
various departments and offices.
they face. To start with; last year, we partnered with the
Kenya Film Commission (KFC) to start a digital media
This being the 9th year since the University was
center that aims at curbing some of the challenges
awarded its charter, I take this opportunity to thank
our youths are facing today, such as unemployment,
all stakeholders both internal and external who have
through the use of technology. The partnership provides
made this vision a reality.
a platform where young people and interested parties
in creative art can use technology in film making and
participate in the production of digital media products
4 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition
 University History
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology has has also introduced a Postgraduate Diploma in
blossomed into the Premier University of Technical and Vocational Education (PGTVE)
Technology in the country and in the region Training. The programme aims at providing
attracting students from across the continent prospective trainers with pedagogical skills and
and beyond. Since her inception, the University strategies for Competency-Based Education and
has grown in many ways including in terms of Training (CBET) programmes in TVET institutions.
infrastructure and the student population; which Among others, the programme will equip the
has grown tremendously. In 2019, the University student trainers with the knowledge, skills and
was ranked as the most preferred University in attitude required to train in TVET institutions.
the country, with a 98 per cent uptake of its
declared capacity being occupied and in 2020, The DeKUT Science and Technology Park is
this rose to 98.8%. still an ongoing project and will be an engine
for innovation, incubation, development and
Among many reasons for this, like quality commercialization of technology. This will, in turn,
education, the serene environment and the stimulate the development of entrepreneurship,
focus on holistic development of our students, which will drive job creation in Nyeri county,
the timely completion of studies by our students. neighboring counties and the country at large
Currently, the University has six schools, seven hence developing self-reliant youths. The park
institutes and 19 centres. will also boost the existing students’ innovations
at the Dedan Kimathi Innovation and Incubation
The University offers a wide range of programmes Hub (DeHUB).
both at the undergraduate and postgraduate
levels. These include Computer Science and DeKUT provides her students with the skills and
Information Technology, Engineering, Applied competencies they require to adapt to the dynamic
Sciences, Food Science and Technology, Health realities of the modern labour market not only as
Science, Business Management and Economics, workers/ employees but most importantly, as
Geothermal Energy Technology, Geomatics, innovators, creatives and job creators. A lot of our
Geospatial Information Systems, and Remote alumni are making waves in the industries, with
Sensing, Tourism and Hospitality, Technical and a majority of them having secure jobs and those
Professional Studies. with an interest in entrepreneurship have created
lucrative ventures. On this auspicious occasion
The University also offers diploma and of the 11th Graduation Ceremony, the University
Certificate courses for mid-level technical will be releasing more graduates to join the rest
skills. The programs offered by the University of the alumni in contributing to the development
are appro ved by the Senate and the various of our nation, Kenya, and beyond.
designated bodies like the Engineers Board
of Kenya (EBK) and the Commission for
University Education (CUE) with B. Sc. in
Chemical Engineering, B. Sc. in Geology, M.
Sc. in Telecommunication Engineering, M. Sc.
in Biomedical Engineering, M. Sc. in Machine
Tools Design and Manufacturing, M. Sc. in Civil
Engineering, Bachelor of Technology in Building
Construction, M. Sc. in Chemistry and M. Sc. in
Forensics and Security Management being the
latest programmes to meet the CUE accreditation
threshold. The University is steadily increasing
her postgraduate enrollment in Master of
Science (M. Sc.) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
programmes to continuously increase innovation
and intellectual property output. The University

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 5

 HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

Staff during a pedagogy training

As part of Human Resource Management, we
have Human Resource Development (HRD), which On the job training is a form of training during
includes training an individual after they are first which employees are familiarized with the working
hired, providing opportunities to learn new skills, environment. At this level, employees get hands-
distributing resources that are beneficial for the on experience using machinery, equipment, tools,
employee’s tasks, and any other developmental materials etc.
activities. This set of processes within the HR On the job training methods used in training and
department are critical to employee on boarding developing staff include but are not limited to the
and retention. following:

Human resource development is the integrated

use of training, organization, and career
development efforts to improve individual, group,
and organizational effectiveness. HRD develops
the key competencies that enable individuals in
organizations to perform current and future jobs
through planned learning activities. Groups within
organizations use HRD to initiate and manage
change. HRD also ensures a match between Pedagogy (Effective teaching skills workshop) group photo
individual and organizational needs.

Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT)

continuously positions herself as an exemplary
employer across all cadres of staff by providing
training and capacity building programmes.
Once the University attracts qualified staff, the
Human Resource Department is tasked with
offering regular training and workshops. DeKUT
mainly uses two methods to train and develop her
staff:
i. On the Job Training;
Staff members participating in co-curricular activities
ii. Off the Job Training;

6 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 Staff during a pedagogy training

DeKUT offers formal training opportunities to her

Team Building Activities.
employees either internally or externally. Trainers,
Staff get to participate in various team-building
facilitators and/or subject matter experts are
activities at the DeKUT Challenge Course held
brought on board for training sessions and the
by Mr. Mwai. This enhances several skills such
employees are engaged in these learning sessions
as better communication among staff. Team
during working hours.
building exercises encourage staff members
to communicate effectively with each other to
Job Aids
complete tasks and solve problems; which leads
These tools include manuals and procedure
to increased productivity.
guidelines offered to the staff and domiciled in
each department. They assist the employees in
Performance Appraisal
the performance of their duties.
Performance appraisals are partly evaluation
and partly developmental. In the 360-degree
In Off-the-Job Training, members of staff are
performance appraisal, feedback is gathered
admitted to Universities at home and abroad,
from supervisors, peers, other colleagues and
where they take up courses relevant to their
sometimes from clients. The appraisal results
professions. The courses are paid for by the
are used to identify areas for further employee
University, and for those who obtain scholarships,
development. Courses, Seminars and Workshops
study leave is granted.

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 7

 SPECIAL INITIATIVES AT THE UNIVERSITY
DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARK (DeST-PARK)

Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT) phones, televisions and laptop computers. The
aims to enter into the league of Entrepreneurial establishment of Semiconductor Technologies
Universities, which leverages on research and Limited (STL) in the University is a major milestone
innovation to create intellectual property (IP) in the development of Dedan Kimathi Science
rights, spin-off companies and entrepreneurship &Technology Park (DeST-Park). STL will provide the
to promote sustainable economic growth of the Science and Technology Park and the University
University and the Nation. In line with this, we with crucial local and international linkages
are spearheading the establishment of a Science contributing to intellectual property outputs.
and Technology Park (STP), which will be an
engine for innovation, incubation, development,
and commercialization of technology. This will
stimulate the growth of entrepreneurship, which
will drive job creation in the country and develop
self-reliant youths.

DeST-Park covers three thematic areas, which are:

Agri-tech (Food bio-resources and natural products
value-addition), Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) and Design, Materials and
Manufacturing (DMM). So far, DeST-Park has President Uhuru Kenyatta during the launch of the Semiconductor
attracted anchor clients; Snowcap Development Technologies Limited
Limited, Asytec and Semiconductor Technologies
Limited.

In April this year, the President of the Republic of

Kenya, H. E. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, presided
over the launch of Semiconductor Technologies
Limited. The factory, which is the only one of its
kind in Africa, manufactures nanotechnology
products such as integrated circuits and sensors
used in electronic gadgets for the global
market. Its products have a high demand and
are used in electronic gadgets such as mobile

8 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 Design, Material and Manufacturing Hub Groundbreaking
Ceremony at the Dedan Kimathi Science and Technology Park
Grounds.

Principal Secretary, State Department for University Education and Research, Amb. Simon Nabukwesi during the Groundbreaking Ceremony of
Design, Material, and Manufacturing Hub at the Dedan Kimathi Science and Technology Park Grounds.

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 9

 DeKUT FILM, ANIMATION & GAMING HUB

Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Kenya Film Commission and Dedan Kimathi University of Technology

DeKUT Film, Animation and Gaming Hub, which The hub is open to students, staff, and members of
is part of the Science and Technology Park, is the public who are animators or filmmakers.
anchored on Kenya’s Vision 2030 dream to
transform Kenya into a newly industrialized, Since its inception, the hub has grown tremendously
middle-income country. The hub was officially and has been able to offer a number of internship
opened by The cabinet Secretary, Ministry of ICT, positions to our youth, who are now able to use
Innovation and Youth Affairs, Hon. Joe Mucheru, the knowledge and skills gained for the period
E.G.H, on 21st May 2020 following the signing to create job opportunities for themselves and for
of a Memorandum of Understanding between the others. Some of the skills offered at the hub include;
University and the Kenya Film Commission. scripting, filming, voice recording, animation;
both 3D and 2D and video gaming. To grow
The partnership aims at providing a platform the requisite human resource capacity for the
where young people and interested parties in industry, the hub also offers training opportunities
creative art can use technology in film making for short courses in the film industry. The courses
and participate in the production of digital media are designed in a manner that helps individuals
products that can be marketed widely. It is an acquire and develop valuable and relevant skills.
industry that provides employment to a lot of Two short courses were launched in September
young people and where one can achieve a lot 2020: Certificate in Animation Production and
with very little investment. Script Writing.

Launch the DeKUT Kenya Film Commission

Film Hub by the Cabinet Secretary Joe
Mucheru.

10 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 11
 DEDAN KIMATHI INNOVATION AND INCUBATION
HUB (DeHUB)
Commissioner interacted with different innovators
taking time to learn about their innovations and
with confidence, pledged support through the UK
Tech Hub Kenya.
Some of the top startups at the hub (some of which
are now fully established companies) include:

Rhions Lab Limited

Rhions Lab Limited is an innovation from two of
our students, Clinton Odour and Julia Muiruri
and alumnus Joshua Ndemenge that develops
innovations that combine Artificial Intelligence,
DeHUB, a hub located at the foot of Mt. Kenya, at the Internet of Things and Cloud Computing to
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology in Nyeri monitor and track wildlife in their natural habitat
county was launched in March 2015 to support to reduce poaching and human-wildlife conflicts.
innovations commercialization. Although the hub This startup was born from project WildEye_KE
is at the university, it supports innovators from the which got the team to the top 10 finalists list in
Mt. Kenya region. The hub has supported over the 2020 Imagine Cup East, Middle East & Africa
100 startups over the years. (EMEA) region under the mentorship of Dr. Ciira
Maina; a Senior Lecturer in the department of
DeHUB has proven to be the leading innovation Electrical & Electronics Engineering and a Data
hub in the Mt. Kenya region. The main activities Scientist (currently the Director, Center for Data
at the hub include: incubation, mentoring through Science & Artificial Intelligence) and Mr. Kenneth
meetups, training and hosting competitive Njihia, the Project Coordinator of the University’s
hackathons that give an output of innovations Innovation and Incubation Hub (DeHUB).
for incubation. The hub hosts mini hackathons
called (Hack Rush) every fortnight from Friday 7 Recently, the Kenya National Innovation Agency
PM to Saturday 7PM to continue the culture of (KENIA), a State Corporation established under
brainstorming and teamwork. This keeps most the Ministry of Education managing the National
innovators motivated, and through the exchange Innovation System, on Monday 1st November
of ideas, the quality of innovations at the hub has 2021, awarded Rhions Lab Limited a financial
been assured. grant of eight hundred thousand shillings (KES.
800, 000) after the start - up won the National
Recently the hub hosted the Mt. Kenya Innovation Innovation Award 2020/2021.
Week; a collaboration between the United Nations
Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Dedan
Kimathi University of Technology Incubation
and Innovation Centre (DeHUB) and Mt. Kenya
Hub. The theme of the Innovation Week around
highlighting Kenyans’ innovativeness as a means
of advancing the Big 4 Agenda and Vision
2030. Its goal was to promote meaningful policy
discussions on innovation within institutions and
the practical skills required to generate inventions
that positively impact people. Such events and
engagements also help in improving research and
commercialization techniques for more substantial
socio-economic implications.
Plant Signal
Plant Signal, an innovation from one of our
students, Shadrak Kiprotich, is a company that
DeHUB has so far attracted international recognition
seeks to help farmers against pre-harvest losses
such as from the UK High Commissioner, H.
caused by pests and diseases. Just by taking a
E. Jane Marriot. When she visited, the High

12 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

picture of the suspicious crop, the farmer gets a Science in Mechatronics Engineering and Clinton
real-time diagnosis for analysis and takes affirmed Odour, a 5th-year student pursuing Bachelor of
action therein. Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Intellivolt
IBEES Power outage is not only a local problem but
IBEES is an automated AI-powered beehive that an international concern. In Africa, power is
increases honey production, reduces labor and considered a luxury, and when it comes to its
reduces colony loss. According to research done supply, it can mean life or death. For instance, one
by one of the founders of IBEES, bees are vitally hundred fifty babies died on oxygen concentrators
important for the health of our planet. Bees are at a hospital in Jinja, Uganda, after the UMEME
responsible pollinators for every third bite of utility company experienced a prolonged outage.
food we take. Worldwide, approximately 1,000
plants grown for food, beverages, fibers, spices, Millions of dollars go down the drain every year
and medicine need to be pollinated by bees to due to unplanned and prolonged power outages.
produce the foods we depend on to exist in this Power entities depend on customer calls to
world. In recent years, annual bee colony losses generate maintenance reports, and this causes a
have reached an unprecedented 30%. If Colony delay in fixing the fault.
Collapse Disorder continues, we will be missing Intellivolt System is an innovation from Aron Ayub
more than just our coffee and chocolate if it results and Edison Nguniri that provides real-time data,
in our bees dying. the precise location of the fault and can detect
IBEES is an automated beehive solution that lets anomalies such as transformer overloads, over-
beekeepers monitor the health of their beehives voltage and under voltage.
in real-time from their phones. Once installed on
the beehives, beekeepers can: know the level of
dampness which may lead to pest and diseases
infestation or even lower the quality of honey
produced, know the weight of their beehive in
order to tell the best time to harvest honey without
frequently disturbing the bee colony, get real-time
alerts via SMS or IBEES App notification when
their beehives have been knocked over or stolen
or upon smoke detection which might be a sign of
intrusion or honey stealing and also get to know
when the Queen has stopped laying and the
colony is about to become broodless. IBEES mobile
notification allows beekeepers/ honey farmers to
monitor all these things in real-time, keep records
such as harvests, tasks and operations, and even
receive notifications to remind them of inspections.
The co-founders of IBEES are Jackline Tum, a
3rd-year student pursuing Bachelor of Science
in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Joseph
Musya, a 4th-year student pursuing Bachelor of

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 13

 THE UNIVERSITY FARM
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology has Dairy
a farm that offers fresh organic products at The livestock section specializes in Holstein
subsidized prices. Further, in line with the Friesian dairy cows, pigs, goats and sheep.
University’s focus on Quality Education, The farm currently has 63 cows, 49 pigs and
Research and Technology Transfer as well 118 sheep & goats.
as service to the community, the University
farm adopts the role of income generation
while providing opportunities for research
and training in crops and livestock farming.

There are three main sections: Coffee, Diary

and Horticulture and several acres reserved
as biodiversity refuge points.

Coffee Nursery
The University farm is engaged in producing
high-quality coffee seedlings through the
Coffee Productivity Project (CPP) that the
European Union funded. The total acreage
under coffee is 295, with a tree population
of 179,879. Currently, the major varieties
include Batian (65%), Ruiru 11 (15%),
grafted Ruiru 11 (5%) and selected blocks of
SL 28 (15%). Batian, a true-breeding variety,
is the most preferred variety in the farm
for its excellent characteristics, including
strong deep roots that extend deep into the
root zone, tolerance to leaf rust and coffee
berry disease, and its high yield compared
to the varieties. In collaboration with Coffee
Research Foundation (CRF), the farm started
a coffee nursery in 2012 to produce high-
quality coffee seedlings to gradually replace
the old coffee trees and distribute them to Horticulture
farmers in the region. The nursery has nine The area under horticulture is 40 acres
propagators used for the seeds’ germination with 8 acres under drip irrigation and five
before they are transplanted into plastic bags greenhouses. Major crops include common
and has a capacity of 140,000 seedlings. vegetables, beans, green maize, arrowroots
Current seedlings total to 104, 075 (main and bananas.
varieties are Ruiru hybrid and Batian).

14 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY
WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY

Unique Reptile Park

The Dedan Kimathi University Wildlife

Conservancy (DeKUWC) is located in the
heart of Nyeri forest, 7 kilometres from
Nyeri town along the Nyeri - Nyahururu
highway. The conservancy is characterized
Andean Llama
by a virgin forest that greatly serves the
browsers and apes among others; open
grassland that hosts grazers; a permanent
river that provides drinking water to animals
throughout the year; and man made water
holes dug close to grazing areas.

The conservancy offers a Great Experience

to visitors given the unique sceneries that
include the reptile park, nature trails spread Our Wildlife Variety
throughout the conservancy, the Llama that
are hardly found in other parks and reserves,
endangered species of birds, e.g. the Hinde’s
Babbler; which the University strives to
conserve and increase their population; as
well as the peaks of snow-capped Mt. Kenya
which are clearly visible from DeKUWC on
a sunny day. following researches have been
published

Jungle experience with expert lead guides

Defassa Waterbuck Sykes Monkey

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 15

 Cottages, Great Family Treat
Other resources of DeKUWC include an 80 To this end, various areas of research have
Pax Seated Capacity Conference Hall suited been facilitated by the conservancy and the
for meetings, retreats, seminars, workshops following research has been published:
and conferences, a campsite with a capacity
of 50 which is well lit and has enough space i. A Bioacoustic Record of a Conservancy in
for a bonfire as you enjoy your barbeque and the Mount Kenya Ecosystem.
drinks. Bush dinners, cocktail parties, and 3
course hotel cuisines are also hosted at the ii. Central Kenya Highlands Birds, Case
conservancy. In addition, the conservancy is Study of Dedan Kimathi University Wildlife
home to open ground with grass that is open Conservancy, Coffee Farm and Built area.
for events like games during team building, The conservancy proudly retains its rich
meetings, weddings, birthdays, picnicking, diversity of flora and fauna, providing more
to mention but a few. ground for research. We warmly welcome
In line with enhancing Research as a pillar interested researchers and scholars to
and area of focus, DeKUT conservancy advance their scholarly work here.
provides a rich field for research in varied
disciplines.

Exclusive Conference Hall

16 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

CENTRES AT DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
CENTRE FOR BIOMASS ENERGY STUDIES-ENG. PATRICK KIMARI

The Center for Biomass Besides research and development, the centre
Energy Studies (CBES) also carries out projects in:
is an autonomous, self- i. Capacity development through approved and
sustaining body under accredited technical and professional education
Dedan Kimathi University and skills training, seminars, workshops, and
of Technology, GREEN conferences
Institute, established in ii. Biomass fuels strategy (sustainably managed
October 2019. woodlands, sustainable consumption)
development and implementation
CBES mandate/focus includes but not limited to iii. Biomass-based thermal (steam, hot water,
research and consultancy work in: hot air) energy systems design, simulation,
i.. Sustainable Biomass Production performance audit and optimization, inspection,
ii. Sustainable Bioenergy Systems (SBES) certification, and other services.
iii. Bioenergy Conversion Technologies iv. Biomass resources mapping and potential
iv. Biomass-Based Thermal Energy Systems evaluation
v. Biomass-Solar Thermal Hybrid Systems v. Biomass projects carbon offset assessment
vi. Energy Management/Energy Efficiency vi. Policy, legal and regulatory support on biomass
vii. Energy Auditing fuel projects
vii. Knowledge management and awareness-

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

ENERGY AUDITING CBES CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT

CONSULTANCY

As far as research is concerned, CBES specializes raising amongst stakeholders

in research and development (R&D) in biomass i. Investment and business promotion along
biochemical conversion technologies, biomass biomass energy value chain
thermal-chemical conversion technologies, ii. Green economy advancement
biomass-based chemical production technologies,
waste treatment technologies/circular production/ Being the anchor Centre of the GREEN Institute, it
economy and bioenergy with carbon capture and carries the institute’s mandate and offers services
storage (BECCS) technologies. covering all energy sources, energy efficiency/
energy management, and other sustainability
Key research focus areas include biodiesel, fuel projects.
ethanol, biomass pyrolysis and gasification,
biomass gasification and power generation,
synthesized fuels, municipal solid waste (MSW)
treatment, and utilization.

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 17

 The table below presents potential projects that CBES will engage in/implement from 2020 to 2024.

PROJECTS YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 YEAR 4 YEAR 5

2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

1. Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

training in renewable energy use/integration
and energy efficiency

2. Water and Energy for Food (WE4F) project

(GIZ-Kenya)

3. Energy and water use mapping in various

productive sectors

4. Cook Stove Project (GIZ-EnDEV)

5. Promotion of Climate Friendly Cooking in Kenya

(GIZ-EnDEV)

6. Specialized laboratories establishment

7. Pilot research and training biogas plant

8. Pilot research and training biomass pretreatment

plant

9. Pilot research and training Gasification &

Cogeneration plant

10. Establishment of a pilot Biorefinery

11. Decarbonization projects in the agro-processing

industry

In the academic year 2020/2021, the centre, with financial support from GIZ innovations funding,
supported three final year projects in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The three projects
were: Solar Crops Drier, Solar Cooler and Clay Pulverizing Machine.

18 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 CENTRE FOR DEVELOPMENT OF ELECTRONIC
DEVICES
By Mr. Julius Karanja guarantee 100% design and production of the
The establishment of the DeKUT Science devices locally.
and Technology Park (STP) has brought in
insurmountable opportunities and facilities that
the University can leverage to develop electronic
products locally instead of producing the products
abroad. One of the facilities established at the
STP is the electronic devices assembly plant.

To tap into these opportunities, DeKUT established

the Centre for Development of Electronic Devices
(CDED), headed by Mr. Julius Karanja, who
spearheads the development of innovative DLD motherboard designed at CDED
electronic devices in order to provide solutions to
various societal problems. To date, the assembly Several other electronic devices will be assembled
line has been set up, and a number of devices at the plant. Key among them is the DeKUT,
have been earmarked for production on this plant. ‘ASTE’ Digital Speed Governor. The design of this
device has already been done, and it is currently
undergoing testing for purposes of approval and
licensing by the relevant government agencies.
Once the licence is issued, mass production of the
ASTE speed governors will start at the assembly
line.

A view of the electronic devices assembly line

One key product is the Digital Learning Device

(DLD). This is a computing device to provide access
to education materials by all learners countrywide
beyond the traditional classroom environment.
This project is being undertaken together DeKUT Digital speed governor
with a number of collaborators who include:
Intel Corporation, Asytec Kenya Limited and Another product that has been earmarked for
Semiconductor Technologies Limited. There production at the assembly line is the Digital
are also several stakeholders involved, key of Intelligent Water Meter. Several stakeholders in
them being the ICT Authority (ICTA), Ministry of the water services sector have expressed interest
Education (MoE) and Kenya Institute of Curriculum to partner with the CDED to develop and pilot
Development (KICD). the concept of smart water meters. It is projected
that about 40,000 smart water meters will be
In this project, DeKUT is designing the Digital produced annually once the design and piloting
Learning Devices for the various levels of learners are done.
with the support of the Intel team. A prototype
has already been developed and is currently
undergoing testing and review. Once the design
is complete, the production will start at the
newly installed DeKUT Assembly Line. This will

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 19

 CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE IN COMPETENCE BASED EDUCATION TRAINING (CCBET)
The Centre for Excellence in Competence-Based Education iii. Organization structure of TVET system in Kenya
and Training (CCBET) is a Dedan Kimathi University iv. Leadership and corporate governance in TVET
of Technology (DeKUT) senate approved Centre. The institutions
mandate of the Centre is to trail blaze research in: v. Dealing with diversity (conflict and group dynamics)
i. Continuous professional development models for vi. Policies and legislative frameworks in TVET
practicing technologists and trainers vii. Functions of; principals, boards, councils and
ii. Pedagogy and Andragogy for Technical and committees
Vocational Education and Training (TVET) viii. Improving quality, accessibility, inclusivity and
iii. Policies issues in TVET and general education relevance of TVET education
iv. Comparative studies in TVET education ix. Management of meetings
x. Sensitization on MWONGOZO guidelines
Vision
To excel in quality research and consultancy in 2. Module Two: Financial Administration and
competence-based knowledge transfer for self-reliance, Management
policy and national development. i. Financing of TVET education
ii. Mobilization of resources
Mission iii. Short-term decision-making tools
To advance the TVET field to spur national development iv. Allocation and utilization of resources
through conducting cutting edge research and v. financial management
consultancies in competency-based education and vi. Sustainable Procurement
training for self-reliance. vii. Human resource management HRM

Philosophy 3. Module Three: Risk Management and Compliance

Education research for social change and self-reliance i. Operational Risk Management
ii. Assurance & Compliance
Motto iii. Contracts Management
Active experimentation, individuality, progress, and iv. Technology & Risk Management
change are fundamental to one’s education. v. Supply Chain Management
vi. Audits and financial reporting
Programmes
In advancing her philosophy and mission, CCBET has Research
researched and developed continuous professional The Centre has research interests in:
development courses that aim to retool TVET trainers to i. Continuous professional development models for
implement the TVET curriculum to bring social change practicing technologists and trainers
and self-reliance. The designed courses are: ii. Pedagogies and Andragogies for Technical and
A: Capacity Building of TVET Trainers Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
i. Historical positioning of TVET in Kenya iii. Policies issues in TVET and general education
ii. Philosophical foundations of TVET v. Comparative studies in TVET education
iii. Designing, implementing and evaluating CCBET
curriculum and instructions Currently, the Centre is implementing two research
iv. Designing, implementing and assessing occupational projects namely:
standards i. Research on teaching Engineering Drawing using
v. The psychology of training in TVET multimedia and virtual reality technologies, which is
vi. Emerging andragogy and pedagogy for TVET being funded by Kenya Education Networks (KENET).
vii. Open distance and e-learning teaching strategies ii. Research on the viability of online teaching of
viii.CCBET testing, measurement, assessment and engineering courses and other technology-related
evaluation fields.
ix. Subject instructional methods and strategies in TVET
x. Comparative education for international consciousness

B: Governance of TVET Institutions

Capacity building on governance will cover the following
modules:

1.Module One: Overview of Governance of

TVET Institution
i. Introduction to governance
ii. Education curriculum planning and management

20 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 SIEMENS CENTRE
The Siemens Mechatronic Systems Certification
Program is the international industry standard for
comprehensive skills certification in mechatronic
systems offered together with Siemens SITRAIN
Germany. The need to offer this certification
for more quality mechatronics and mechanical
engineers graduating from DeKUT, the DeKUT
Siemens Centre was established in 2016.
Since inception, the centre has made significant
contributions to engineering in Kenya by
embracing industry 4.0 technology. This has been
in the form of published research, organizing
and spearheading successful Mechatronics Skills Mission
Competitions and key collaborations that include:- To advance on-class and on-job training and
disseminate the 4th Industrial Revolution Concepts.

Philosophy
DeKUT Siemens Centre is founded on independent
scholarship and learning freedom while fostering
a culture of innovation and collaboration. The
Centre is committed to equality of opportunity,
engendering inclusivity and supporting staff
and trainees well-being, ensuring that the very
best trainees and staff benefit the society locally,
nationally, and globally. Likewise, the centre’s
collegiate structure and interdisciplinary nature of
programmes provide her with key aspects of her
training strength and her highly attractive trainee
i. Siemens Germany to offer SMSCP. experience.
https://new.siemens.com/global/en/products/
services/industry/sitrain/smscp.html
ii. Engineering Board of Kenya that certified
DeKUT Siemens Centre to offer Continuous
Professional Development for registered graduate
& professional engineers, respectively.
https://ebk.or.ke/
iv. National Industrial Training Authority to offer
internship opportunities for graduates.
https://www.nita.go.ke/training-centres.html

Motto
Change Africa for the Better.

Vision
To bridge the gap between higher-educational
institutions and industries by providing world-
class professional training and research.

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 21

 CENTRE FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
MANAGEMENT (CIEM)
The Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will be to train 600 leaders of the cooperative
Management was established in 2018 with the societies in Nyeri County. CIEM has also partnered
key mandate of facilitating the enhancement and with the Department of Gender, Youth and Social
development of innovation Services; County Government of Nyeri to conduct
and entrepreneurship culture among the a Training Needs Assessment for women and
University’s fraternity and the community at youth groups.
large. The surveys, done online with a mixed methods
survey approach was completed in November
OUR OBJECTIVES ARE: 2021 and reports prepared to inform a capacity
building
i. Offer capacity building programmes in programme for the groups. CIEM is in discussion
entrepreneurship and innovation to support with the department to undertake
the creation of new business enterprises and capacity building programmes for youth and
expansion of existing ones. women groups with an entrepreneurial
focus.
ii. Serve as a one-stop resource Hub for innovators CIEM has also partnered with the County
and entrepreneurs on different product value Government of Laikipia in supporting the
chains. Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) and one of its
key output was the preparation of
iii.Support development of winning business plans business plans for 10 MSEs which have been
for innovators and entrepreneurs as an essential completed and submitted to the business
tool for financial access and management owners.
ENTREPRENEURIAL TRAINING
iv. Facilitate access to networks, support agencies, The Centre hosted the Entrepreneurship for
equipment and resources to entrepreneurs and Everyone Program (E4E) in conjunction with the
innovators to accelerate their actualization into Startup Centre. E4E is an Entrepreneurial Training
commercially viable enterprises Program carried out in
collaboration with Saarland University in
v. Provide mentorship and business coaching Germany. The Program had a total of 139
services to innovators and entrepreneurs participants who were taken through the training
and facilitate the transfer of technological for a period of 11 weeks. The Program climaxed
and entrepreneurial knowledge and skills for with the DeKUT Startup Fair 2021 which took place
enterprise development and growth. from 8 th October 2021 to 10 th October 2021 at
DeKUT. The event attracted 90 participants from
vi.Conduct Research and provide data to inform DeKUT, Karatina University, Chuka University and
policy development and /or review in relation Tharaka Nithi University College.
to Start Ups and Small and Medium Enterprises

COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVES

CIEM has established key collaborations with the

County Government of Nyeri, County Government
of Laikipia and is in the process of establishing
one with Micro and Small Enterprises Authority
(MSEA).

The following are the activities conducted under

the collaborations:
One of the key deliverables of CIEM under its
collaborations with the Department of
Trade, Tourism, Culture and Cooperatives The group photo of the participants during the startup weekend
with the Chief Guest startup weekend; DVC AAR, Prof. Esther Ma-
Development; County Government of Nyeri, giri (second left) flanked by from left: Mr. Nida , German Judge in
the event, Laikipia County Government Director for Innovation and
Trade ; Ms Winnie and Director CIEM; Dr. Rosemary Kagondu

22 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 CENTRE FOR INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTIVITY AND
ENGINEERING (CIPE)
The DeKUT Center for Industrial Productivity
& Engineering (CIPE) has built expertise in Productivity
Industrial Engineering and Management to Quality
plan, design, implement and manage integrated
production and service delivery systems to ensure
performance, reliability, and maintainability,
schedule adherence and control. CIPE leverages
on this expertise to support industrial sustainability
through training, industrial project development
and consultancy.

Motto
Engineering-based productivity improvement

Vision
To enhance industrial productivity, quality and
maintenance performance by providing world-
class professional training, consultancy and Maintenance Management
research. Sample Short-Courses

Mission
To advance on-class and on-job training,
research and consultancy to improve
organizations productivity.

Services . Maintenance Engineering and Management

. Engineering Safety
1. Training . Quality Engineering
. Productivity & Quality Improvement
Our robust and high-calibre . Lubricant and Lubrication Technology
technical training solutions are . Maintenance Data Analysis
developed by subject matter experts
to help organizations improve 2. Consultancy
organizations’ productivity and boost
employees’ careers and skillsets – core enablers of Your production, operations and
competitive advantage and sustainable business products must comply with your
development. We provide innovative learning and strategies and target market
development solutions, covering multiple areas requirements to ensure you gain
and industries, tailored to your needs. To ensure and improve on competitiveness,
training objectives are met wherever you are, we profitability and productivity. Whether you’re
provide flexible training options delivered virtually experiencing challenges with the organization’s
(eLearning) or face-to-face (either on-site or off- productivity, manufacturing, maintenance, quality
site). Our training utilises subject matter experts to or need a new business strategy to reflect your
provide valuable real-world applicative insights envisioned future, we’re here to help. Identifying
moving beyond theory. We share our expertise, and meeting those requirements is a complex
thereby unlocking potential and building capacity; challenge. Our consultancy services can help you
a significant factor in individual and company understand and meet these demands, whatever
success. As a result, you can trust us to provide your industry. CIPE conducts consultancy services
high-quality, consistent training and development in designing efficient systems with innovative
for your organization. solutions to move your business forward.
Our training agenda is categorized into 3
training pillars:

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 23

 3. Industrial Productivity Improvement Research
and Projects CONTACTS
Email: [email protected] or
Are you looking to implement
[email protected]
business-enhancing, agile
Cell: +254 717 877044 or
production and maintenance services that improve +254 737 737023
the organization’s performance? Using proven
research-based solutions, CIPE helps you improve
productivity, quality and maintenance performance
with proven and time-tested approaches. We will
walk with you to evaluate your current position,
navigate challenges by developing an articulate
road map addressing the needs, ensuring you
reach your goals and sustain performance.
This is articulated using designed tailored
projects and research in your organization;
from developing strategically aligned objectives
to implementing and reviewing the well-crafted
decision support.

DeKUT Centre for Industrial Productivity & Engineering (CIPE) conducting

an Industrial Training at Torrent East Africa Ltd

24 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

CENTRE FOR COFFEE ii) Improved coffee quality and prices
TECHNOLOGY The center has successfully implemented
quality advisory to farmers and cooperatives
& FOOD SAFETY through coffee cupping tasting facilities for
farmers with expert cuppers at affordable
The mandate of the Coffee Technology and Food rates. Over 300 samples have been analyzed
Safety Centre is to implement the academic, and appropriate information provided to the
research and technology transfer objectives farmers. The Center has also participated in
within the coffee value chain. DeKUT coffee several community coffee extension services
farm is a 684-acre mixed coffee, dairy and through exhibitions and agricultural shows.
arable production farm. About 302 acres of the
farm is under coffee; the dominant variety being As part of the Vision 2030 flagship project,
SL 28 with a few Batian and Ruiru 11 coffee DeKUT has acquired a Coffee Pilot Packaging
trees. The farm also has a coffee nursery with Plant for value addition and capacity building
a capacity of 70,000 seedlings. This interest in of stakeholders on coffee value chain
coffee farming that the University has stayed development. The center has also trained
true to since inception calls for a dedicated farmers and cooperative management
centre for efficiency and sustainability. boards, like Othaya Coffee Cooperative,
on best practices in Coffee Technology and
Strategic thematic activities of DeKUT Coffee Quality Management through customized
Technology Center are aimed at achieving the short courses. The staff and students
following objectives: continuously carry out adaptive research and
innovations on best practices along the coffee
i) Enhanced coffee production quantities. value chain towards improved quality and
DeKUT coffee nursery has distributed about price. Some of the research outputs include
45,965 high-quality coffee seedlings to farmers enhanced awareness of safety assurance
from May 2016 to June 2017 at affordable through prevention of mould contamination
rates. The centre strives to ensure that this only and improvised fermentation techniques
gets better. during peak harvest seasons.

iii) Improved technical capacity of

professionals in Kenya’s Coffee Sector
The center oversees the implementation of the
Certificate/Diploma in Coffee Technology
and Quality Management programme. The
main goal of these programmes is to impart
appropriate knowledge and skills on best
practices in the coffee value chain. This is
done in collaboration with stakeholders like
the Coffee Directorate.
iv) Enhanced youths empowerment for self-
employment and gender equity in the coffee
sector
The Coffee Technology and Quality
Management Programme targets high school
graduates and those already employed in the
coffee sector. In addition to the core technical
skills in Coffee Technology, learners are
exposed to other skills like entrepreneurial
Skills, Communication Skills, Information
Communication Technology and Principles of
Management.
v) Environmental conservation through
improved coffee waste management

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 25

 The centre has made several efforts towards through the adoption of Eco-pulper for wet
awareness creation on improved coffee waste processing of coffee.
management practices; further linking to
specialized niche markets with higher income vi) Coffee Tourism Model
such as Fair Trade branding. The staff and The Center has successfully piloted a coffee
students attached to the center are also actively tourism model covering the coffee value chain
involved in innovations on utilization of coffee from nursery to cupping. About 200 local and
waste through research on the extraction international visitors have been taken through the
of pectin from mucilage for reuse in food/ coffee value chain from seedlings propagation to
pharmaceutical applications and other coffee cupping at DeKUT.
waste byproducts.
To further contribute towards environmental
conservation, the Center is keen on promoting
improved water resource management, e.g.

British High Commissioner, H. E. Jane Marriot

having a taste of our DeKUT Coffee

Courtesy visit by a team from South Face Organization and Incapto Coffee from Spain to discuss future collaborations and
partnerships on various aspects such as; coffee value addition, coffee agro-tourism and marketing and scholarship opportunities for
Diploma Coffee Technology students.

26 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 STARTUP CENTRE
One may wonder, what happens to the research output of innovation. DeStaC has embarked on this journey and
generated by the universities every year? What about has vetted a number of innovations, of which some have
the good innovations and business ideas generated by been admitted to the Startup center for commercialization
the students? ……… Well, Dedan Kimathi University support.
of Technology (DeKUT) has provided answers to those
questions!

The University Management, in fulfilment of the University

strategic plan, has been working towards making DeKUT
an entrepreneurial university, which turns the research
output into innovations that are commercially viable, and
eventually, supporting the innovations towards establishment The award of the winners of the DeKUT StartUp Fair, organized
by DeKUT StartUp Centre (DeSTaC), in collaboration with
of startup companies and fledgling enterprises (see Fig 1) by Saarland University, Germany
student innovators.
In order to promote an entrepreneurial mindset among
Figure 1: The University roadmap towards being an students, DeStaC, in collaboration with the DeKUT’s Centre
entrepreneurial University for Innovation & Entrepreneurship Management (CIEM),
DeKUT Incubation Hub (DeHUB), and Dedan Kimathi
University – Science & Technology Park (STP), organized
a Startup fair where student innovators and entrepreneurs
came together to ideate, form teams and launched their
business ideas, with the aim of commercialization. The
Startup Fair was supported by DAAD, Germany, within the
Towards making DeKUT an entrepreneurial University, the project titled, “Development of entrepreneurial universities
management has established the DeKUT Startup Centre of Kenya” (DePUK), implemented by DeKUT in collaboration
(DeStaC). Among the objectives of DeStaC is to enhance the with Saarland University, Germany, Chuka, and Karatina
entrepreneurial ecosystem in the university, where innovators University.
will find an avenue to commercialize their ideas and launch
startup companies. Further, DeStaC will provide a support Through the established entrepreneurial ecosystem, DeKUT
process that accelerates the successful development of endeavors to promote the potential of Startups to create
start-up and fledgling companies by providing an array of jobs, commercialize new technologies, and strengthen
targeted resources and services. This framework will enable the national economy. Thus, the DeKUT Startup Centre
the University to support and take the viable startups through will provide an ecosystem that promotes the identification,
the acceleration process and graduate them into financially enrolment, support, acceleration, and establishment of
viable and freestanding companies. startups to contribute to the attainment of national goals.

Figure 2: The DeKUT Startup Cycle for commercialization of

innovations

The DeKUT Startup Centre (DeStaC) has been mandated Fig 4: Student innovators pitching their business ideas in the
to oversee the full startup cycle (see Fig 1) towards DeKUT Startup fair organized by DeStaC.
commercialization of innovation, protection of intellectual
property (IP), up to the support of startup companies. The Other centres include:
research work taking place in the faculties may be classified i. Centre for Geotechnical Engineering
largely as pure or applied research. But in order to develop ii.Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
commercially viable products or innovations, which can be iii.Centre for Data Research and Cyber Security
termed as a minimum viable product (MVP), commercial iv.Software Development Centre
research and development are imperative. A minimum
v.Centre for Economic Policy & Technology Development
Studies
viable product (MVP) is a version of a product or innovation,
vi.Centre for Nano Materials & Nano Science Research
with just enough features to be usable by early customers as
vii.Centre for Spatial Information Science and Systems
a commercial product, who can then provide feedback for
viii.Centre for Water Resources Management
future product development. Once this MVP is established,
ix. Centre for Excellence in Teaching & Learning in
IP protection is sought through patent. Finally, the Startup
Higher Education
Company was established to support the commercialization
University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 27
 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR STUDENTS’ LIVES
THROUGH NEWLY CREATED DEPARTMENTS
In addition to centres, the University has created new departments to serve our students better.
The departments include:
i. DeKUT Office of Career Services (DeKUTOCS)
ii. DeKUT Financial Aid Office (DeFAO)
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology Office of Career Services (DeKUTOCS)

Dedan Kimathi University of Technology’s mission creativity, scholarship and enterprises as captured
is “To provide an academically stimulating, in the University’s philosophy.
culturally diverse and quality learning environment With the changing times and the challenge of high
that fosters research, innovation and technology rate of unemployment, the University has continued
development towards producing relevant technical to adopt various styles of moulding the students in
and managerial human resource and leaders to effort to prepare them adequately for the changing
contribute to attainment of national development world market and the challenges that come with
goals.” Since inception, the University has stayed it. It is in this spirit that DeKUT Office of Career
true to this mission with her eyes on the ultimate Services (DeKUTOCS) was recently established
goal of moulding the institution into one that with the goal of:
is known for world class research, academic
excellence, an exceptional staff and students, and
one that harbors the highest level of innovation,

28 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

i. Supporting students realize their full academic
potential.
ii. Producing graduates who are prepared for the
world of work and whose character reflects DeKUT
core values and philosophy.
iii. Enhancing the rate of paid employment and
self-employment achieved within the first 12 months
of graduation.
iv. Building the career guidance capacity of the
staff and the University.
v. Enhancing DeKUT’s graduate long-life
employment.
Guided by her vision of empowering Dedan
Kimathi University of Technology students to achieve
a successful and fulfilling career and positively
impact the world, DeKUTOCS will complement and
support already existing efforts by the University
through various programmes, departments, centres
and initiatives bringing in to the fold her own
initiatives with the understanding that it is one thing
for a student to enroll in a, study it successfully, pass
all exams and graduate and it is another to grow
through that process into a professional with broad
knowledge and application of the same in their
field as well as a professional with all the necessary
skills to navigate the world of work successfully.
Further, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
identifies herself as an Entrepreneurial University
hence has the focus of ‘raising’ students with the
ability to develop new solutions to problems be it
in the context of employment in a company or in
self-employment. Through DeKUT Office of Career
Services, the University looks to enhance this
focus and ensure that students’ acquire soft skills,
professional skills as well as attitudes relevant to
their post-graduation employability
As our (DeKUTOCS) slogan goes, we look forward
to inspiring and empowering our students to build
a career they love.

We can be reached via email address

[email protected].

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 29

 DeKUT Financial
Aid Office (DeFAO) b) An applicant will be awarded applicable
support, subject to availability of funds and/or
opportunities, e.g., work-study.
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
Financial Aid Office (DeFAO) is domiciled under
Step IV: Monitoring and Support
Registrar, Academic Affairs & Research. Its main
DeFAO will regularly monitor all applicants
responsibility is to guide and support students
irrespective of the outcomes or observations made
with financial challenges.
under Step II. The aim is to ensure that as many
students as possible are supported.
Through DeFAO, DeKUT endeavours to enhance
and diversify sources of funds to support needy Students Responsibility
students and ensure that such students continue The students’ responsibility is to seek support
with their studies uninterrupted. and provide correct information/documentary
evidence for assessment. Provision of incorrect
Who is eligible for DeFAO Support? information will attract stiff penalties, which
include but are not limited to disciplinary action
and denial of future support.
Any DeKUT student who is unable to finance their
university education fully in a given semester.
For more information contact:
Office Number 0794461607
Application Procedure
Email address: [email protected]
Step I: Application
A student applies for support using the DeFAO
Financial Needs Assessment Form (To be provided
at the office).

Step II: Verification of documents and

information provided
a) DeFAO will verify the details provided in the
Financial Needs Assessment Form and provide
feedback to the applicant – i.e., whether the
application was successful or not.
b) If not successful, the applicant will be advised
accordingly.

Step III: Successful Applications

a) Successful applicants are advised on the level
of support offered. The approval will be based on
the assessed level of need.

30 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 31
 PICTORIALS

Launch of the DeKUT Kenya Film Commission

Film Hub which was presided over by the
Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru

Dedan Kimathi University of Technology

(DeKUT) signs a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Kenya Industrial
Property Institute (KIPI)

DeKUT Mock Wedding

DeKUT Siemens Centre receive various

equipment from FESTO, a German
multinational industrial control and automation
company, in preparation for the WorldSkills
Mechatronics Competition

32 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 Housing Scheme members receive title
deeds from Kimathi Makao and Company
Ltd.

Semiconductor Technologies Limited inks a President Uhuru Kenyatta, during the launch of
lease deal with Dedan Kimathi University of the Semiconductor Technologies Limited
Technology for space within Dedan Kimathi
Science & Technology Park

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ndirangu Kioni, Presiding Induction Training for DeKUTSO Leaders 2021 /
over the Launch of the Chaplaincy Policy and 2022
Commissioning of the Team of Collaborators at
the DeKUT Freedom Hall.

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 33

 ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING GEOTHERMAL ENERGY TRAINING AND
• PhD Mechanical Engineering RESEARCH INSTITUTE (GETRI)
• Master of Science in Telecommunication • Master of Science in Geothermal Energy
Engineering Technology
• Master of Science in Machine Tools Designs • Post Graduate Diploma in Geothermal
& Manufacturing Energy Technology
• Master of Science in Advanced • Bachelor of Science in Geology
Manufacturing &Automation Engineering
• Master of Science in Industrial Engineering SCHOOL OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND
and Management INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
• Master of Science in Civil Engineering • PhD Computer Science
• Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering • Master of Science in Computer Science
• Post Graduate Diploma in Technical and • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Vocational Education Training • Bachelor of Science in Business Information
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Technology (BBIT)
Electronic Engineering • Bachelor of Science in Information
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Technology (IT)
• Bachelor of Science in Mechatronic • Diploma in Information Technology
Engineering • Certificate in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical
Engineering SCHOOL OF SCIENCE
• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering • Master of Science in Chemistry
• Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication • Master of Science in Leather Technology
Information Engineering • Master of Science in Industrial Mathematics
• Bachelor of Education in Technology (Civil • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Chemistry
Engineering) • Bachelor of Science in Polymer Chemistry
• Bachelor of Education in Technology • Bachelor of Science in Leather Technology
(Electrical and Electronic Engineering) • Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science
• Bachelor of Education in Technology • Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and
(Mechanical Engineering) Modeling Process
• Bachelor of Technology in Building • Diploma in Leather Technology
Construction
INSTITUTE OF FOOD BIORESOURCE
TECHNOLOGY
• PhD in Food Science and Technology
INSTITUTE OF GEOMATICS, GIS & REMOTE • Master of Science in Food Science
SENSING (IGGReS) Technology
• PhD in Geomatics & Geospatial Information • Bachelor of Science in Food Science and
Science Technology
• Master of Science in Geospatial Information • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
Systems and Remote Sensing • Diploma in Food Science and Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Geomatics and • Diploma in Coffee Technology and Cupping
Geospatial Information Systems • Certificate in Coffee Technology and Quality
• Bachelor of Science in Geospatial Management
Information Science and Remote Sensing

34 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition

 • Diploma in Electrical &Electronics
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Engineering (Power Option)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Direct Entry)
• Certificate in Furniture Technology and
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Upgrading)
Interior design
• Certificate in Building Technology
INSTITUTE OF TOURISM HOSPITALITY
• Certificate in Fashion Design and Interior
MANAGEMENT
Decoration
• Master of Science in Sustainable Tourism
• Certificate in Electrical and Electronics
and Hospitality Management
Engineering (Power Option).
• Bachelor in Sustainable Tourism and
• Certificate in Metal work, Welding and
Hospitality Management
Design
• Diploma in Sustainable Tourism and
• CCNA I, II,III ,IV
Hospitality Management

PROFFESIONAL AND CERTIFICATION

INSTITUTE OF CRIMINOLOGY, FORENSICS
COURSES
AND SECURITY STUDIES (ICFoSS)
• CPA Sec. I-VI
• Master of Science in Forensics and Security
• Certificate in Accounting and Management
Management
Skills
• Bachelor of Science in Criminology and
• ATD Level I , II & III
Security Management
• Associate in Procurement and Supply of
• Diploma in Security Management
Kenya (APS-K)
• Certified Procurement and Supply
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND
Professional of Kenya (CPSP-K)
ECONOMICS
• Siemens Mechatronics Systems Certification
• PhD in Business Administration &
Program (SMSCP) LEVELS 1-3
Management
• Master of Science In Economics
• Master in Business Administration
• Master of Science in Supply Chain
Management
• Bachelor of Purchasing and Supplies
Management (BPSM)
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
• Diploma in Business Administration (DBA)
• Diploma of Purchasing and Supplies
Management (DPSM)

INSTITUTE OF TECHNICAL AND

PROFESSIONAL STUDIES (ITPS)
• Diploma in Furniture Technology and Interior
design
• Diploma in Metal work, Welding and Design
• Diploma in Building Technology
• Diploma in Fashion Design & Interior
Decoration

University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition 35

 DeKUTKenya [email protected] www.dkut.ac.ke

Dedan Kimathi University of Technology

ADMISSIONS OFFICE - 0706688135 DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

REGISTRAR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS - 0713835965 NYERI - MWEIGA
NAIROBI CAMPUS - 0710127516 PRIVATE BAG, 10143,
MARKETING OFFICE - 071312302 NYERI, KENYA

36 University Profile 2021 Special Profile Edition