A team from NACOSTI holding an assessment of KCA University’s preparedness for accreditation as an Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committee(ISERC) in September 2023. PHOTO: HANDOUT

KCA University’s Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committee (ISERC) has been accredited by the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) to conduct ethics reviews of research proposals in Social Sciences.

This accreditation awarded to the institution will be valid for three years up to October 2027.

KCA University Vice Chancellor and CEO Prof Isaiah Wakindiki said that the accreditation affirms the university’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethical research in the Social Sciences and will capacity-build the University to review and approve research proposals, ensuring that studies conducted meet rigorous ethical guidelines that protect the rights and welfare of the parties involved.

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Prof Wakindiki who termed the step as a milestone said that the accreditation will revitalize the University’s endeavour to foster research, innovation, and commercialization, reinforcing its mission to provide solutions to societal challenges through cutting-edge research and knowledge creation.

The VC and CEO reiterated that the institution is dedicated to cultivating an environment where responsible research and innovation thrive.

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“This accreditation aligns with our 2024-2028 Strategic Pillar on excellence in Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship by reinforcing our dedication to fostering ethical, high-quality research in innovation and commercialization,” Prof Wakindiki said.

He added;

“It will ensure that all research undertaken at the University and beyond adheres to the outlined ethical standards, fostering trust and credibility in the institution's research outputs. It will also enhance the scope of our cross-institutional collaborations, responsible commercialization of research findings and contributions to societal and economic transformation.”

He said that the move has elevated the University to a key player in ethical research oversight and further strengthened its capacity to contribute to the global research community.

“By fostering a culture of integrity in research, we ensure that the knowledge we generate is impactful, responsible, and valuable to society," he said.

Prof Wakindiki averred that the certification has not only elevated KCA University’s role in driving innovation and commercialization of research outcomes but will allow and enable researchers within the University to explore new frontiers in Social Sciences.

“The University remains committed to collaborating with industry, government, and fellow stakeholders in academia to translate research into tangible solutions that address local and global challenges,” the VC said.

He at the same time rallied researchers, collaborators and stakeholders to engage with the Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committee to advance accountable, transparent and innovative research that addresses the evolving needs of society.