Kabarak University today proudly inaugurated the 15th International Research Conference hosted by the School of Music and Media, under the theme “Innovating the Arts: The Intersection of Creativity and Technology.” The two-day event, running from October 6–7, 2025, brings together scholars, artists, and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond to explore the evolving relationship between creative arts and digital innovation.
The day began with a warm courtesy call to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Henry Kiplangat, in the University Boardroom. Guest speakers, including Prof. Madimabe Geoff Mapaya (University of Venda), Artist Mackinlay Mutsembi, Dr. Ayo Oluranti, Dr. Fredrick Mbogo, engaged in a brief meeting with the VC before proceeding to the Sawia Auditorium for the official opening ceremony.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Kiplangat emphasized the university’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and cultural preservation. He highlighted the School of Music and Media’s impressive achievements at national festivals, including awards for best pianist, saxophonist, and operatic performance, as well as the orchestra’s crowning as the best in Kenya. He also announced the upcoming launch of the African Musicology Institute (AMI), a collaborative initiative with the University of Venda, aimed at advancing Pan-African scholarship and musical heritage.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & Research), Prof. John Ochola, applauded the university’s growing international footprint, citing partnerships with institutions in South Africa, Nigeria, China, the USA, Rwanda, and Romania. He commended the Vice-Chancellor’s visionary leadership in steering Kabarak University toward global academic engagement.
The conference features five thematic tracks:
- Audience Engagement through Art and Technology
- Digital Transformation in the Arts
- The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Creative Process
- Cultural Appropriation and Authentic Representation
- Sustainability in Arts Production Practices
Participants are attending sessions both physically and virtually. The program includes keynote addresses, panel discussions, and over 40 research presentations covering topics such as AI in music composition, digital archiving of traditional sounds, and the socio-economic impact of cultural festivals.
Kabarak University extends heartfelt gratitude to its partners: the Kenya Film Commission, University of Venda, Hisynergy, and Mastermade Studios, whose collaboration has enriched this landmark event.
Stay tuned for more updates as the conference continues to inspire bold ideas and transformative conversations in the arts.
