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Mount Kenya University has unveiled a cutting-edge Robotics, AI, and Immersive Technologies Lab, alongside the introduction of the Walker E Educational Humanoid Robot.
According to the Thika-based institution, the facility—believed to be the first of its kind in the region—will revolutionise hands-on training in fast-growing fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science.
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MKU Chairman Prof Simon Gicharu said the humanoid robot will give learners real-world experience by allowing them to programme, train, and test algorithms on a fully operational machine. He added that the investment also includes innovation grants to support research and solutions for real-life problems.
The School of Engineering, Energy, and the Built Environment also received upgraded laboratory equipment to boost practical training. The enhanced facilities will support work in solar and wind energy technologies, equipping students for opportunities in the expanding green energy sector.
Additionally, the university launched a Phantom Head Skills Laboratory to strengthen dental education.
Prof Gicharu reiterated the university’s commitment to equipping students with modern tools and innovation platforms. He noted that AI is the next major frontier and encouraged students to embrace it. He said MKU is exploring a dedicated innovation fund to support standout AI projects through the university’s Incubation and Innovation Hub.
He further urged students to participate in hackathons, saying they help build technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and readiness for real-world innovation.
The new robotics and AI lab will support training, human–robot interaction studies, and student-led prototyping and product development projects.
During the launch, the humanoid robot attracted widespread attention. Dr John Kamau, Dean of the School of Computing and Informatics, said the robot will be used for comprehensive training in robotics and AI. He explained that students will learn programming, task training, and algorithm development using the machine.
The robot can be trained to recognise speech and images and perform tasks, and its functional hands and legs allow it to execute many actions similar to a human, enhancing practical learning across data science, machine learning, and related fields.
The university also showcased the new Phantom Head Skills Lab for dental students, designed to provide hands-on preclinical training. Vice Chancellor Prof Deogratius Jaganyi said the lab allows learners to practice procedures safely before handling real patients. He added that the dental equipment is AI-driven, enabling digital scans and creation of custom dental restorations.
MKU’s library has also been strengthened with new scholarly books and materials from top international and local publishers. Prof Jaganyi encouraged faculty to continue publishing in academic journals and authoring books.
He said these investments highlight MKU’s dedication to experiential learning, applied research, and technology-driven innovation, giving students world-class resources to develop practical skills and solve modern challenges.
