Research and Community Outreach

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Jan 28, 2026

Research and Community Outreach
Research and Community Outreach: Advancing Innovation, STI Mainstreaming, and Community Impact at Taita Taveta National Polytechnic

At Taita Taveta National Polytechnic (TTNP), innovation, research, and community engagement are strategically coordinated under the Department of Research and Community Outreach. This department provides an integrated framework that nurtures creativity, promotes Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) mainstreaming, and strengthens the Polytechnic’s linkages with industry, communities, and global partners.

TVET FAIRS

The TVET Fairs, housed under the Department of Research and Community Outreach, serve as a flagship platform for student innovation, exhibitions, research presentations, and skills competitions. These fairs embody the core principles of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) by emphasizing hands-on learning, problem-solving, applied research, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

TTNP has consistently demonstrated outstanding performance in TVET Fairs, progressing from regional to national levels, and in many cases advancing to international platforms. In recent regional competitions, the Polytechnic successfully qualified more than seven projects to the national level—highlighting the commitment, ingenuity, and collaborative spirit of students, trainers, and support staff.

Innovation showcased during the TVET Fairs cuts across all academic areas:
• Hospitality students demonstrate creativity through meal preparation, bakery production, and restaurant service.
• Agriculture trainees apply modern technologies to promote sustainable farming practices and enhance food security.
• Applied Science students develop environmentally friendly products using locally available materials.

ROBOTICS CLUB

Also housed within the Department of Research and Community Outreach is the Robotics Club, a vibrant hub for students interested in automation, robotics, programming, artificial intelligence, and intelligent systems. The club provides a practical environment where learners engage in design, prototyping, coding, testing, and deployment of robotic and automated solutions.

Through regular internal hackathons, the club challenges students to solve real-life problems, strengthen teamwork, and enhance creative thinking. Hackathons include both technical and recreational activities and conclude with awards and pitch mentorship.

STI MAINSTREAMING AND CONFERENCES

The department is actively involved in STI mainstreaming across training, research, and community-based projects. It also leads the organization of conferences, workshops, seminars, and symposia that promote knowledge exchange, research dissemination, and collaboration.