Abstract: This study explores the contribution of community-driven financial technology (Fin- Tech) models to sustainable development in Western Kenya, a region where rural entrepreneurs face persistent barriers to financial access. Weak infrastructure, limited credit opportunities, and low digital literacy have restricted growth, deepened inequality, and slowed progress toward inclusive development. Anchored in the Sustainable Development Goals poverty re-duction (SDG 1), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9) the research investigates how localized financial innovations can enhance resilience and opportunity. A mixed methods design was employed. Surveys were conducted with 200 entrepreneurs, alongside 20 interviews with community financial leaders, and a review of six technology-enabled finance initiatives. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using NVivo, while quantitative results were processed in SPSS to identify trends and patterns. The findings show that mobile-accessible platforms remain the most preferred financing option in Western Kenya, especially those that do not rely on collateral. Nonetheless, persistent challenges include low trust in formal financial institutions and limited digital literacy. The study concludes that localized FinTech solutions—such as digital savings groups, USSD-based microfinance systems, and credit-scoring innovations hold significant potential for promoting inclusion and resilience in the region. It recommends stronger public–private collaboration, targeted digital literacy programs, and the creation of county-level FinTech hubs to scale innovation, strengthen entrepreneurship, and align community finance with sustainable development goals.

Abstract: Innovation of instructional materials during the learning exertion is widely recognized to enable students to be more competent in different subject matter. This paper investigates teachers’ innovativeness in using instructional materials in teaching and learning of Biology subject. A total of 42 Biology teachers responded to the questionnaires during data collection. Frequencies, means and percentages on teachers’ innovativeness of the instructional materials in teaching and learning of Biology subject from observation and questionnaires data were calculated and presented in table and graphs. Only funnels were innovated by all schools followed by models, and Bunsen burners, which were innovated by at least half of the schools involved in the study. Innovation of digital materials such as projectors, computers, tablets, radios and educational slides was not encouraging. Counting merely on analogy materials such as chalks and blackboard over digital materials will produce the students who are not creative, incompetent and students who are unable to solve different problems that occurred in their daily life especially in this digital era. We recommend investment on teachers’ in-service training programs in enhancing innovation of wide range of the instructional materials including the digital materials.

Abstract: Deteriorating performance of the police service has been attributed to inability to implement the police reforms which aim to improve their performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of technological innovation on the performance of National Police Service in Kenya. The study utilized Resource Based View Theory. This study used positivism philosophy and adopted explanatory research design. The study targeted 792 NPS officers. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were employed to select sample size of 266 NPS officers. Primary data was collected using questionnaire among the NPS officers. Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient was adopted to ascertain internal consistency. Content validity was achieved through an expert judgment and construct validity established by conducting a factor analysis. The collected data was coded and analyzed through inferential analysis. The study concluded that there was a positive significant influence of technological innovation on performance of NPS. The study recommended the need for the NPS to prioritize the adoption, integration, and continuous upgrading of technology-based systems in their day-to-day operations.

Abstract: This paper assesses how research and innovation can be streamlined to develop sustainable business models that enhance development and economic stability in Western Kenya amid rapid global economic change. The aim is to examine the transformative potential of institutional and local innovations in strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the region’s economy. The study focuses on four key objectives: exploring the adaptability and vulnerability of SMEs to global disruptions; assessing the role of research and knowledge in enhancing sustainable business strategies; identifying enabling institutional arrangements; and offering practical recommendations for building resilient and inclusive economic ecosystems. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving innovation hub leaders, researchers, and local entrepreneurs, complemented by focus group discussions with women-led and youth enterprises. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and Africa’s Agenda 2063, particularly Aspirations 1, 3, and 7. Results reveal that enterprises in Western Kenya face recurring challenges such as limited market access, climate shocks, and underdeveloped financial systems. However, businesses integrating modern technologies, agrotech innovations, circular economy principles, and community-based models demonstrated greater adaptability and resilience, reinforcing the role of localized innovation in sustainable development.

Abstract: Transport-related challenges in rural Western Kenya continue to hinder access to essential services and economic opportunities. Inadequate infrastructure, fragmented mobility systems, and digital exclusion have deepened inequalities between rural and urban areas. This study aimed to develop an integrated transport framework tailored to the counties of Bungoma, Kakamega, Vihiga, and Kisumu, focusing on inclusion, innovation, and sustainability. A mixed-methods design was adopted, involving household surveys, GPS-enabled travel mapping, and structured interviews with community stakeholders. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and GIS, while qualitative data were processed through NVivo for thematic insights. The study identified key mobility barriers and tested four pilot interventions grounded in four innovation models: the Transport Integration Model, Hub-and-Spoke Model, Center-Periphery Approach, and Technology Diffusion Model. Results demonstrated improved travel times, increased accessibility for women and persons with disabilities, and greater youth participation in digital mobility initiatives. The findings suggest that context-sensitive, youth-led, and technology-enabled transport solutions can significantly reduce rural mobility poverty. The study contributes to regional transport policy by presenting a scalable framework for inclusive and sustainable mobility in underserved areas.

Directorate of Research, Innovation and Publication, African Rural University

Email: cmaali@aru.ac.ug

Abstract: This study examines how African Rural University (ARU) fosters creativity and innovation among students, with a focus on awakening the “sleeping genius” within rural learners. ARU adopts an educational model that combines interdisciplinary learning, local knowledge, and community engagement to prepare students to address challenges in rural Africa. Through qualitative research, the study explores the perceptions of third- and fourth-year students and faculty regarding creativity, teaching strategies, and successful student-led projects. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 30 students and six faculty members, and three focus group discussions. Findings reveal that students view creativity as a collaborative, practical process essential for solving local problems. They emphasize the importance of real-world applications and community-driven innovation. However, a gap exists between fostering creativity and actualizing innovation in the curriculum. Successful projects like the S & V Superb Juice Project and Piggery Project demonstrate the impact of entrepreneurship and hands-on learning in rural development. The study recommends integrating innovation more consistently into the curriculum, strengthening mentorship, increasing financial support for student projects, and leveraging technology to enhance creativity. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on rural education and creative learning, highlighting how ARU’s approach can drive transformative change in rural communities.

Received October 28, 2020; Revised November 15, 2020; Accepted November 15, 2020

Abstract. A university is a center of knowledge creation, and industry can be a vibrant place for innovation. This paper examines the key factors influencing university-industry collaboration (UIC) innovation catalysts in Sri Lanka. The study employed a systematic procedure based on the Grounded Theory to investigate the factors contributing to the success of UICs, and attributes for innovation capacities. The investigation was guided by the research question: what factors of UICs influence ICT innovations in Sri Lanka? A total of 41 research papers was selected from Science Direct, Scopus, and Ebscohost based on the availability of full text, and their relevance for the research question. The results of the study revealed that management directives, financial support, policies, proximity dimension, and heterogeneity are key factors for a successful UIC.

Received April 26, 2020; Revised September 5, 2020; Accepted October 6, 2020

Abstract: Over enrolment and inadequate resources in Public Technical Universities in Kenya contribute to low quality education devoid of research and innovation and incapable of driving the National Development Agenda. Consequently, does Performance Contract Target Setting stimulate innovation in Public Technical Universities? The study sought to establish the efficacy of Performance Contract Target Setting in stimulating innovations. The study utilised the Goal Setting theory advanced by Locke and Latham (2018). The study employed the Explanatory Survey research design. The study was carried out in Technical Universities in Kenya. From a population of 15104, a sample of 377 was obtained using the Morgan Krejcie formulae. Data was collected by the use of questionnaire. Content validity of the instrument was ensured by expert judgement. Reliability of study instruments was ascertained by Cronbach alpha. Analysis of qualitative data was done by use of content analysis based on identifiable themes while Quantitative data was analysed by use of Simple regression. Analysed data was presented in tables and figures in line with study objective. The findings revealed that Performance Contract target setting accounted for 65% innovation in Public Technical Universities. The study concludes that Performance Contract Target Setting has a positive influence on innovations in Public Technical Universities. It is recommended that Performance Contract Target Setting should specifically include innovation and be strengthened as a tool for management to increase efficiency and stimulate innovations in Public Technical Universities.

Received March 5, 2018; Revised March 25, 2018; Accepted March 30, 2018

Abstract: This study sought to examine the broadening of and innovative marketing of tourism products by making an analysis of the Batwa trail in Mgahinga gorilla national park in Western Uganda, using quantitative and qualitative techniques. The study established that tourism industry in Uganda experiences a stagnant growth given the fact that most tourists get bored with the existing products. The trail has a variety of products like caves, forest walk, and hiking experience. However, it experiences little acceptance levels as less is known about it by international visitors. Secondly, no promotional plan was used for the Batwa trail which meant limited number of potential tourists would know about its existence. The currently used traditional methods like trade exhibitions can yield minimal results. The use of social media like Facebook, Instagram, Watsap, Pinrest and google adverts were seen to be the modern effective promotional tool for the trail. The study recommended constant promotion of the Batwa trail in travel magazines, social media and fairs to achieve appeal and acceptance by both domestic and international visitors.