There is need for pumping more resources into the commercialization of the innovation ideas.
Principal Secretary for Science Research and Innovation Prof Abdulrazak Shaukat, says young people the country have great ideas that should be tapped into.
Seaking during the closure of five-day National Research Festival at Egerton University, Prof Shaukat was categorical that the festival has been key in the use of science research towards good security.
He lauded the work being done in the various Universities, noting that the innovations should touch on the the pillars of Bottom up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The PS noted that the government will also look at the curriculum to ensure entrepreneurship aspects are incorporated to address unemployment.
He reiterated the need for partnership on matters science diplomacy gor the betterment of the Nation.
“We cannot just work in isolation. We must partner to make our country great,” he stated.
While noting that the science technology innovation Act 2013 clearly states that two percent of GDP should be towards research and innovation in Universities, the PS revealed that at the moment only 0.8 percent is what is provided.
He called for the need to increase the 0.8 percent to at least one percent to boost renovations.
The PS at the same time urged Universities to establish intellectual property offices to ensure products are protected.
According to the PS, next year the festival will be held at the Coast region with focus on blue economy.
The five-day festival was made possible through partnership between National Research Fund, Egerton University and County Government of Nakuru.
The theme for this year was Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security.
