Tharaka University’s (TUN) capacity to safeguard the integrity of research has received a major boost following the conclusion of a four-day TUN-ISERC capacity-building workshop, with NACOSTI experts commending TUN for a good move in technology and calling out for stronger use of technology in research ethics oversight and post-approval monitoring.
Held at the University of Embu from 10–13 August 2026, the training brought together TUN-ISERC members and experts from the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) for intensive sessions aimed at strengthening the committee’s capacity to review, monitor and provide ethical oversight of research.
On the final day, participants were taken through Emerging Issues in Research Ethics and Review Processes of Research Proposals by Ms. Margaret Muthee, Deputy Director, Social Science Schedule, while Ms. Christine Apakoreng, Deputy Director, Registration and Accreditation, facilitated the session on Post-Approval Monitoring.
The sessions underscored the need for research ethics oversight to evolve alongside emerging technologies. The trainers commended Tharaka University for its digital advancement and encouraged the institution to leverage technology further in strengthening research review and post-approval monitoring processes.
With the four-day training now complete, TUN-ISERC members are better equipped with the knowledge and skills required to conduct effective ethical review and oversight of research at the University.
The University also calls on researchers and postgraduate students undertaking studies at Tharaka University to obtain ethical clearance through TUN-ISERC, an accredited institutional ethics review committee, in line with the requirements of NACOSTI, Kenya’s regulatory, advisory and coordinating body for science, technology and innovation.
The training marks an important milestone in TUN’s continued commitment to promoting ethical, credible, responsible, and high-quality research.
