Technology adoption in socializing applied sciences for exploitation of renewable natural resources sustainably

Abstract

Kenya Vision 2030 aims to transform Kenya into a newly industrializing, middle class income country providing high quality life to all her citizens in a safe and secure environment by the year 2030. To achieve this, generation and management of a knowledge based economy and the contribution of indigenous inventions and technologies has been recognized as vital. A lot of efforts have been put in place on the application of Science, Technology and innovations as an engine and driver of knowledge based economy which is subject of re-evaluation during the innovation week. This paper looks at the socialization of applied sciences, adoption, adaption, transfer and diffusion of technologies with a view to measuring productivity, optimizing utilization of natural resources and bringing on board the “critical mass” of the small holder and small and micro enterprises (SMEs) to play their role in bringing about the desired change. The paper proposes a Technology Adoption Facilitation model (TAFaM) where the institutions of higher learning will play a pivotal role not only in creating and disseminating technologies but also in anchoring and overseeing technology adoption, transfer and diffusion by SMEs and Small scale Agribusiness in LDCs. This will not only engage youths, create self employment, generate income, contribute to economic development but also fight poverty, reduce hunger increase food security and improve quality of life. Two case studies are used to inform the discourse.