Department of Research, Extension, Innovation and Resource Mobilization
The Department of Research, Extension, Innovation, and Resource Mobilization (REIRM) is the engine of knowledge preservation, creation, and societal impact at Kisii University. Its identity is borderless and inclusive, grounded in the belief that research and innovation are vital bridges connecting scholarly excellence to tangible global progress.
Mission
Create an enabling, inclusive, and collaborative research environment where staff, students, and partners can excel and contribute to humanity through knowledge, innovation, and collaboration.
Vision
Position Kisii University as a globally recognized institution renowned for research, consultancy, innovation, and extension.
Mandate
Empower scholars, students, and partners to generate and apply high-impact knowledge through research, innovation and commercialisation, extension and community engagement, strategic partnerships, capacity building and knowledge dissemination, grant management, and resource mobilization.
Services
Research and innovation coordination, community engagement, partnership development, training and mentorship, publications and conferences, grant administration, proposal development, donor engagement, and event sponsorship coordination.
Five interconnected pillars
Research, Innovation & Commercialisation
Cultivates curiosity-driven and solution-oriented inquiry across Health, Agriculture, Applied Sciences, Environmental Conservation, ICT, Socio-Economics, Law, Education, and Culture, while translating discoveries into practical technologies and enterprises.
Extension & Community Engagement
Fosters reciprocal relationships between the university, industry, and communities so research is co-created and responsive to local and global challenges. The office also champions environmental sustainability through tree planting and reforestation drives, climate-smart agriculture demonstrations, biodiversity awareness programs, and local capacity building for long-term environmental stewardship.
Strategic Partnerships & Collaborations
Forges robust linkages with international and local universities, industry, and development partners to support joint research, exchanges, and shared resources.
Capacity Building & Knowledge Dissemination
Nurtures the next generation of researchers through training, mentorship, and the dissemination of high-quality scholarship through publications, seminars, and conferences.
Grant Management and Resource Mobilization
Secures and administers research grants, endowments, and financial or material resources for academic programmes and research infrastructure; drafts data-driven research and project proposals for donors; and builds relationships with funding bodies, governments, international partners, corporate foundations, and philanthropic organizations.
Annual events to look out for
International Multidisciplinary Conference
Annually (June)A premier platform for researchers, scholars, and practitioners to exchange knowledge, present findings, and discuss emerging trends across disciplines. Recent themes have focused on global health, sustainable development, and inclusive knowledge systems.
Innovation Week
Annually (April)The flagship REIRM event bringing together students, researchers, industry leaders, and development partners to showcase innovations that matter. It features exhibitions, keynote lectures, pitching competitions, workshops, and an awards ceremony celebrating SDG-aligned innovations.
Public Lectures
QuarterlyFormal, accessible presentations delivered by experts to a general audience to share knowledge, spark public interest, and foster civic awareness on themes including societal issues, scientific breakthroughs, economics, politics, culture, and other contemporary topics.