By Tracy kavai, nyaberakavai@gmail.com
The Vice-Chancellor of Daystar University Prof. Laban Ayiro has unveiled yet another book titled – Educational Research Methods: A Functional Approach.
The book was launched at a colorful ceremony at Sarova Panafric Hotel graced by Chairman of Bidco Africa, Vimal Shah, who lauded Prof. Laban Ayiro’s contribution to Kenya’s academia and urged universities to work together for betterment of education and students.
Other guests who attended event include former Makueni Governor Prof. Kibutha Kibwana who is now a professor of law at Daystar University, Daystar University founder Doctor Donald Smith, Chairman of Chiromo Hospital Group Professor Frank Njenga and Literary Communications Professor Egara Kabaji, among others.
The launch marks a significant milestone in the advancement of educational research in Kenya. According to professor Ayiro, the book is not merely a collection of research methodologies; it serves as a clarion call for educational reform, urging collaboration among educators and institutions.
As articulated by Prof. Ayiro, the intended impact of this work transcends individual readers, emphasizing the importance of uplifting the education system for future generations. “I believe that the intended impact of this book extends beyond individual readers. It is a clarion call for educational reformation, encouraging collaboration, fostering networks of support among educators and ultimately enabling us to uplift our education systems for future generations.”
Vimal Shah, the chairman of Bidco Africa, underscored the importance of adapting to changing circumstance. “If we do not reinvent ourselves every single day, we will be left behind and so research methods are changing and even the way we do business is changing. There is need for collaboration amongst universities because if we come together, we can solve a lot of our problems.” This sentiment echoes the call for modernizing curricula and developing strategies that align with global educational standards.
Prof. Kivutha Kibwana emphasized the necessity of convincing stakeholders of the benefits of research, even within the public sector, stating that it can ‘ameliorate some of the issues which undermine our ability to do better.”We need to be persuaded that research is not harmful even when it comes or meets with the public sector and it can only help to ameliorate some of the issues which undermine our ability to do better.”
Prof. Frank Njenga’s remarks that investments in youth yield higher returns than those in infrastructure reveal a paradigm shift towards recognizing human capital as a priority, “if Kenya had only 100 shillings to invest, and the choices we had was between roads, electricity, dams, infrastructure and so on, the returns you would get by investing in young people, far outstrip investment in anything else.”
By promoting collaboration among universities, Prof. Ayiro’s book advocates for a redefined approach to educational research, one that is both impactful and responsive to societal needs
On his part Professor Kabaji who was the chairman of the Book Launch Committee noted, “It is important as we launch this book to reflect on our education system, to rethink our education system and to reposition research in our universities and carry out research this going to be impactful to the society.” This call to action resonates with the current landscape, where research often lacks direct applicability to real-world challenges. Prof. Ayiro’s book addresses this gap by presenting a functional approach to educational methodologies that can effectively inform practice.
As universities strive to remain relevant, incorporating research that addresses pressing societal issues will not only enhance academic credibility but also improve the overall educational experience for students.
The launch of ‘Educational Research Methods: A Functional Approach’ by Prof. Laban Ayiro represents more than just a new publication; it signifies a pivotal moment for educational reform in Kenya.
By advocating for collaboration among educational institutions and focusing on research’s societal impact, the book sets the stage for transformative practices in academia. As stakeholders in education continue to embrace these ideals, the future of Kenya’s educational landscape promises to be more adaptive and responsive to both local and global challenges.