The kick-off event gathered some 14 delegates from the East African region (Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania) providing networking opportunities between the different universities, ministries and governmental organizations, as well as a space to discuss the specific project implementation strategies and goals.

The delegates from the partner institutions (African Virtual University, MOI University, MZUMBE University, MAKERERE University, Inter University Council for East Africa, Directorate of Research Management & Development (Secretary of Higher Education, Science and Technology), Tanzanian Commission for Science and Technology, Uganda National Council for Science and Technology and Glasgow Caledonian University worked together during 2 days in developing the workplan and implementation plan of the first project semester.  

The main first activity consists of a detailed analysis of the Innovation Ecosystem: Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policies, initiatives and support services. The survey will target researchers and managers of Universities as well as governmental organizations, managers of enterprises and other organizations in the energy field in the three EA countries. Furthermore, training plan to upgrade skills of partner HEI staff will be developed and three STI Support National Networks will be created.