Daystar University recognized for nurturing student-led innovations

Photo Caption: Mr. Felix Koskei, EGH, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service (Left), presenting the award to the VC, Prof. Laban P. Ayiro (Third)

By Dr. Caroline Ayuya Muaka

[Mombasa: September 11, 2025] Daystar University Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban P. Ayiro, was among 11 vice chancellors recognized for nurturing student-led innovations in their respective institutions. 

The Vice Chancellor received the Student-Led Innovation Club (SLIC) award during this year’s Commercialization and Entrepreneurial Institutions Leaders (CEIL) 2025 Summit hosted by the Kenya Innovation Agency (KeNIA), at the Pride Inn Paradise Hotel in Mombasa from September 11-12, 2025.

The award was presented to the Vice Chancellor by the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Mr. Felix Koskei, EGH.

Other Vice Chancellors recognized alongside Daystar University's Prof. Laban P. Ayiro are:

• Prof. Margaret Jesang  Hutchinson - University of Nairobi

• Prof. Robert Gateru - Riara University

• Prof. Peninah Aloo Obudho - Maasai Mara University

• Prof. Peter Muchiri - Dedan Kimathi University

• Prof. James H.P. Kahindi - Pwani University

• Prof. Romanus Odhiambo - Meru University

• Prof. Henry Kiptiony Kiplangat - Kabarak University

• Prof. Isaiah I.C. Wakindiki - KCA University

• Prof. Njenga Munene - Zetech University

• Prof. Mwenda Ntarangwi - USIU Africa.

Earlier this year, Prof. Ayiro championed the formation of the Daystar University Innovation Club (DUIC) under the Student Affairs Department, as part of strengthening Daystar University's innovation ecosystem.

The Dean of Students Rev. Mutinda Musyimi confirmed to the Infospot that in May 2025,  the Student Affairs Department registered the Daystar University Innovation Club (DUIC), under Clubs and Associations. 

The Patron of DUIC is Mr. John Nderitu, Innovation Officer in the Directorate of Research, Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship, while officials of the Club are: Laura Daniel (President), Chrisantus Onduso (Vice President), Kamadi Cherie (Secretary), Natasha Bichage (Treasurer), Travis Lavender (Social Media and Marketing Lead),  Ashley Wairimu (Athi River Campus Innovations Ambassador), Victor Masaku (Nairobi Campus Innovations Ambassador), Alex Muchai (Partnerships and Club Alumni Liaison), and Francis Musau (Graphics Designer).

In his remarks, the VC dedicated the award to students, noting that their boldness and creativity continue to make Daystar University a beacon of hope in Kenya’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

“To all of you, it is our victory, and we give glory to God,” said the VC.

The recognition is proof of Daystar University’s commitment to nurturing student-led innovations, creativity, and entrepreneurship through the Student-Led Innovation Club (SLIC).

“This achievement affirms Daystar’s growing leadership in shaping Kenya’s innovation and entrepreneurship landscape. We celebrate Daystar's leadership, students, faculty, and partners who continue to make this possible,” said Dr. Kennedy Ongaro.

Present during presentation of the award was the Director, Institute of Policy and Development Studies, Dr. Kennedy Ongaro, who is currently the Acting Director of RICE (Research, Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship), Vice Chancellors from other Kenyan Universities, government officials, members of the international community, funding agencies and several stakeholders from across the globe.

The Infospot congratulates the Vice Chancellor, DRICE, Student Affairs Department and student innovators for this great achievement.

The writer Dr. Caroline Ayuya Muaka is the Director, Directorate of Research, Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship. Email: drice@daystar.ac.ke