At the just concluded 7th Research and Innovation Week held from 28th to 30th May 2025 at the Zetech University Technology Park Mang’u Campus, Zetech University was recognised by the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) for excellence in Financial Grant Management with a Platinum Certification, marking a historic moment as the first university in Kenya and the second institution in Africa, after the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC) to reach this top-tier recognition.
The GFGP certification, sponsored by the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC), is a standard for institutions that demonstrates robust, transparent, and efficient financial and grant management systems. The Platinum level is the highest of the four GFGP tiers, representing the pinnacle of compliance in areas such as financial controls, procurement, risk management, and organisational governance.
“This certification is more than just a badge, it is a bold statement about who we are as an institution,” said Prof. Njenga Munene, Vice Chancellor of Zetech University during the 7th Zetech University Research and Innovation Week. “It reflects our drive for excellence, accountability, and our readiness to lead in global partnerships and funding opportunities.”
Dr. Catherine Kyobutungi, Executive Director of APHRC and one of the Chief Guests, commended Zetech University on this achievement, during the Research conference “Congratulations to Zetech University on being the first University in Kenya to achieve Platinum certification in Good Financial Grant Practice (GFGP). This recognition enhances the university’s ability to manage research grants and build international partnerships.”
This significant achievement occurred at a crucial time, coinciding with the Zetech University Research and Innovation Week. Centred on the theme “Education for Sustainable Prosperity: Empowering Lives Through Innovation,” the three-day conference brought together a vibrant mix of scholars, innovators, students, and thought leaders, all dedicated to leveraging research and innovation as key drivers for addressing today’s most urgent challenges. Through engaging presentations, collaborative dialogues, and interactive sessions, the conference offered a dynamic platform to share ideas, highlight pioneering projects, and build partnerships aimed at promoting sustainable development and enhancing community well-being. This milestone not only emphasised the University’s commitment to knowledge
advancement but also showcased the powerful role of education and innovation in fostering lasting prosperity for societies and economies.
"Research should not exist in isolation and thus all research and innovations are supposed to be directly relevant to solving societal needs, fostering industry collaborations and providing real-life solutions," said Prof. Susan Alfano Nkinyangi, Chancellor, Zetech University.
Zetech University’s Platinum GFGP Certification reflects its commitment not only to academic excellence but also to operational integrity, a vital foundation for sustained impact in education, research, and community service. The certification further enhances the institution’s credibility and competitiveness in securing international research grants and building partnerships with organisations that prioritise transparency and accountability.