The State Department for Science, Research and Innovation (SDSRI) is the Government department responsible for providing leadership, policy direction, coordination and oversight in science, research and innovation in Kenya. It was established through Executive Order No. 1 of June 2025 to provide a dedicated and coordinated framework for advancing Kenya's science, research and innovation agenda.

SDSRI's mandate is to provide, promote and coordinate quality science, research and innovation for sustainable socio-economic development. This includes policy development, coordination of the national research and innovation ecosystem, commercialization of research outputs, resource mobilization, intellectual property management, international cooperation, and management of national STI information and linkages.

SDSRI's functions include formulation and review of policies, strategies and frameworks for science, technology and research; management of the national innovation system; promotion of research and innovation commercialization; mobilization of resources; intellectual property management; international collaboration and science diplomacy; and management of national science, technology and innovation statistics and linkages among government, academia and industry.

SDSRI supports national development by promoting evidence-based research, technological development, innovation and commercialization of knowledge. It facilitates the application of research and innovation to national priorities and promotes partnerships among government, research institutions, universities, industry, counties and other stakeholders.

Yes. SDSRI finance research through its institutions, particularly the National Research Fund (NRF).

Yes. SDSRI support commercialization of research and innovbations through its institutions. The Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) leads the practical development, incubation, acceleration, commercialization and scaling of innovations.

SDSRI establishes and facilitates collaboration, partnerships and linkages among national and county governments, universities, research institutions, industry and other knowledge-based institutions. These partnerships help bridge the gap between research, policy, industry needs and societal challenges.

Counties can participate through partnerships, joint programmes, research initiatives, innovation ecosystems, science engagement activities and development of locally relevant solutions. SDSRI facilitates linkages between national and county governments to promote the mainstreaming of science, research and innovation in county development priorities.

SDSRI facilitates international collaboration, partnerships and linkages in science, research and innovation. It also coordinates Kenya's obligations and engagements in research, science, technology and science diplomacy, while mobilizing international resources and expertise to strengthen the national SRI ecosystem.

Yes. Students may participate in eligible research, innovation, mentorship, competitions, training, internships and other programmes offered by the State Department, its agencies and partner institutions.

Information on conferences, exhibitions, innovation challenges, competitions, workshops and other events is announced through official communication channels. Participation requirements vary depending on the event.

The latest news, announcements, funding opportunities, events, programmes, publications and other updates are available on the State Department's official website and verified communication platforms.