Daystar University Hosts First Inaugural Lecture

A Full Professor of Research Methods and Statistics since 2015, Prof. Ayiro addressed the topic: Mixed Methods Research: Myth or Reality?

Following the inaugural lecture, Prof. Ayiro has made a Call for Papers offering a critical and reflective rebuttal to his inaugural lecture perspectives on Mixed Methods Research. For more information: https://www.ayiro.africa/a-call-for-papers/

During the Lecture, he also released a book – The Nature and Design of Mixed Methods Research – which disseminates findings of his research work.

Prof. Ayiro was ushered to his Inaugural Lecture in a colorful procession led by the General Service Unit band, fellow scholars donned in their academic regalia and students.

Prof. Ayiro expressed concern that Doctoral students and faculty supervisors have limited access to theoretical and comparative research that would provide them with new and valuable insights to their thesis, dissertations or projects. He submitted that mixed methods stands out from other research approaches and called for integration of qualitative and quantitative methods.

“When one wants to work with the truth, one must use mixed methods and search for the truth under waters.”

Citing the Metaphor of archipelago, the Professor of Research Methods and Statistics stated: “When one wants to work with the truth, one must use mixed methods and search for the truth under waters.”

The Chair of the Inaugural Lecture Committee, Prof. Egara Kabaji from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, submitted that an inaugural lecture is a significant milestone in one’s academic journey, and one of the traditions that define great universities.

In his response, the Chair of the Department of Communication, University of Colorado, USA, Prof. Timothy Khun submitted that Inaugural lectures addresses the urgent need for rigorous and relevant research.

The Inaugural Lecture was a blended event with a limited number of in-person guests attendeding at Daystar University Nairobi Campus, while a larger global audience followed the event online.

The Fourth Vice-chancellor of Daystar University, Prof. Laban P. Ayiro was awarded Full Professorship in Research Methods and Statistics by Moi University in 2015.

Present at the Inaugural Lecture was Prof. Ayio’s family, fellow scholars from various universities and institutions from across Kenya, members of Daystar Company Board and University Council, Government officials, Daystar Senate, Management and student representatives.