Rama Krishna Sangem
IIT Hyderabad’s iTIC Incubator welcomed a high-profile delegation from Kenya, led by the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA), along with senior representatives from 11 Kenyan universities. The visit, held over two days, aims to foster collaboration between the innovation ecosystems of both countries and establish long-term ties through the India-Kenya Innovation Nexus. The delegation included special guests: Hon.
Edith Vethi Nyenze (MP, Kitui West Constituency) and Hon. Amina Dika Abdullahi (MP, Tana River Constituency), along with Dr Tonny Omwansa, CEO of KeNIA. Vice-Chancellors and senior academic leaders from Kenyan universities and key members of the Kenyan innovation ecosystem also accompany the group,, said a press release
Conveying his welcome to the delegation and speaking on the importance of the collaboration, Prof B S Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad and President of iTIC stated, “We are honored to host our Kenyan counterparts and explore the numerous opportunities that our nations can create together. The Innovation Nexus reflects our shared commitment to advancing technology and entrepreneurship.”
The highlight of the day was the formal signing of the Partnership Charter of the India-Kenya Innovation Nexus, which focuses on fostering meaningful connections between the Indian and Kenyan innovation ecosystems. The Nexus is designed to facilitate opportunities for cross-border startup growth, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building initiatives that will benefit both nations.
Day 1
On the first day of the visit, the Kenyan delegation participated in a series of engaging activities, beginning with a comprehensive tour of IIT Hyderabad’s Incubation Facilities, led by Mr Dhruv Gupta, COO of iTIC Incubator, which showcased cutting-edge technologies and ongoing startup projects.
Post lunch session started with an overview of IIT Hyderabad by Prof. Tarun Kanti Panda and followed by insightful presentations on the innovation ecosystems of both countries, delivered by Dr. Tonny Omwansa for Kenya and Prof. S. Suryakumar for India, sparking productive discussions on mutual collaboration opportunities.
The day culminated in a Networking Dinner hosted by Prof. B. S. Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad and President of iTIC, providing a platform for informal discussions between the Kenyan delegation and key members of the Indian startup ecosystem, including special guests Hon. Edith Vethi Nyenze and Hon. Amina Dika Abdullahi, Members of Parliament from Kenya, who contributed valuable insights throughout the day’s events.
Day 2
On Day 2, the delegation will engage in key discussions surrounding technology commercialization,academic initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, and the critical role incubators play in supporting startups. The highlight of the day will be the Joint Declaration of Membership to the India-Kenya Innovation Nexus by Indian and Kenyan universities, further cementing the partnership between the two nations
