Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) Hosts Transformative Summit on EdTech Innovation

Meru, Kenya – April 25, 2025 – The Central Kenya EdTech Summit 2025, held at Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST), marked a pivotal moment in the region’s journey toward redefining education through technology. The event brought together educators, policymakers, EdTech entrepreneurs, and thought leaders for a day of dynamic discussions, hands-on workshops, and groundbreaking demonstrations aimed at shaping the future of learning in Kenya and beyond.

A Day of Inspiration, Collaboration, and Innovation

The summit kicked off with an energizing opening session, where key leaders set the tone for the day. Prof. Hilda Omae (Ag. DVC AFP, MUST) welcomed attendees, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering cutting-edge educational technologies.

 

Jennifer Cotter Otieno (CEO, EdTech East Africa) highlighted the critical role of innovation in bridging learning gaps, while Barnabas Sang (Directorate of ICT, Ministry of Education, Kenya) underscored the government’s dedication to integrating technology into national education policies.

Jennifer Cotter Otieno (CEO, EdTech East Africa) 

Barnabas Sang (Directorate of ICT, Ministry of Education, Kenya)

Key Highlights from the Summit

1. Empowering Educators as Innovators
   • • • • The Themed hall sparked lively debates on how teachers can leverage technology to enhance learning outcomes. Educators shared real-world challenges and success stories, reinforcing the need for continuous professional development in digital literacy.
2. ICT in Education Policy Stakeholder Forum
   • • • • A highly interactive session allowed stakeholders to critique existing policies and propose actionable recommendations for Kenya’s next ICT in Education Policy Framework. Policymakers, school administrators, and tech experts engaged in robust discussions on scalability, accessibility, and sustainability in EdTech.
3. Learning Out Loud Workshops
   • • • • NABU’s workshop on First Language Creative Storytelling demonstrated how mother-tongue literacy tools can revolutionize foundational learning.
         • EDCET LTD led a thought-provoking session on Sustainable EdTech Solutions, challenging leaders to rethink cost-effective, long-term strategies for digital education.
4. EdTech Demos That Captivated the Audience
   • • • • PHET LABS showcased offline science simulations, proving that high-quality STEM education doesn’t always require an internet connection.
         • Hillary Atindah and Science In A Suitcase wowed attendees with robotics and sustainable tech solutions, illustrating how hands-on learning can inspire the next generation of innovators.
5. Networking and Community Building
   • • • • The closing networking session fostered meaningful connections, with participants exchanging ideas, forming partnerships, and committing to ongoing collaboration under the newly established Central Kenya EdTech Community.

Gratitude to Our Esteemed Partners and Participants

The success of the summit would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of our speakers, facilitators, and attendees. MUST extends its deepest appreciation to:

• • • • Hilda Omae (Ag. DVC AFP, MUST) for her visionary leadership in advancing EdTech at the university.
      • Jennifer Cotter Otieno (CEO, EdTech East Africa) for driving impactful conversations on innovation in education.
      • Barnabas Sang (Director ICT, Ministry of Education, Kenya) for reinforcing the government’s commitment to digital learning.
      • All workshop facilitators, demo presenters, and participants for their enthusiasm and contributions.

The Road Ahead: Building a Sustainable EdTech Ecosystem

The Central Kenya EdTech Summit 2025 was more than just a conference—it was the launchpad for long-term change. The insights gathered, partnerships formed, and commitments made will serve as the foundation for:

• • • • Policy advancements in ICT integration for schools.
      • Teacher empowerment programs to enhance digital pedagogy.
      • Community-driven EdTech initiatives tailored for Kenya’s unique needs.

As we reflect on this milestone, MUST reaffirms its role as a hub for innovation and educational excellence. We invite all stakeholders to stay engaged, collaborate, and drive the EdTech movement forward—because the future of learning starts today.