African Technology Policy Studies Network

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ATPS SECRETARIAT

ATPS has an independent and dynamically evolving Secretariat with staff to provide executive direction, administrative implementation and physical infrastructure to the network.

THE SECRETARIAT

ATPS has an independent and dynamically evolving Secretariat with staff to provide executive direction, administrative implementation and physical infrastructure to the network.

Prof. Nicholas Ozor

Executive Director

Engr. Prof. Joel Nwakaire

Postdoctoral Research Officer

Dr. Cynthia Ebere Nwobodo

Postdoctoral Research Officer

Mr. Alfred Nyambane

Programme Manager

Mr. Wentland Muhatiah

Research Officer

Ms. Doreen Ongoro, CPA

Finance & Admin Officer

Miss. Susan Aquila Mburu

Communication and Outreach Officer

Mr. Martin Waiguru

Finance & Admin Assistant

Mr. Ian Njuguna

IT Consultant

Ms. Winnie Juma

PA to Executive Director & Admin Assistant

Mr. Patrick Ng'ang'a

Logistician and Driver

The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) internship programme continues to offer pre-employment experience to various students from different learning institutions. The objective of this initiative is to help the student encounter, analyze and evaluate issues in their chosen occupations and also to acquire extensive professional experience.

The new ATPS Governance Structures have also adapted a Regional Secretariat with a less hierarchical line management structure – managed by a Secretariat Management Committee (SMC). The Secretariat is led by a Secretariat Management Committee (SMC) chaired by the Executive Director. The SMC comprises the Executive Director (ED); Director of Research, Training and Communications (DRTC); Finance and Administration Manager (FAM); the STI Policy/National Chapter Liaison Officer (STIP/NCLO); the Senior Secretary/Programs Administrative Assistant (SSPAS) who is the Secretary to the SMC, and any other Senor Staff that may be appointed by the Executive Director, from time to time. The SMC provides strategic intellectual and administrative direction to the Secretariat and regional activities of the ATPS, in liaison with the ATPS National Coordinators’ Regional Council. The SMC meets regularly to review the activities of the Network for effective continuous monitoring and control and inputs into the network management decisions. Where the SMC fail to reach an agreement on specific management decision, the ED shall consult with the Executive Administrative Board Committee accordingly and/or use his discretion as per the provisions of the ATPS Human Resource Policies and Procedures Manual.

 

As per the ATPS Articles of Association: Clause 65 the functions of the Regional Secretariat include:

  • Identifying all issues of common interest among the chapters;
  • Co-ordinating activities and providing overall intellectual and administrative leadership and supervision to the chapters;
  • Formulating regional strategy;
  • Designing regional programmes, programme of work and budget;
  • Calling for regional proposals;
  • Evaluating proposals submitted for funding;
  • Screening , approving and funding regional activities;
  • Monitoring and implementing regional activities;
  • Providing guidance and oversight to national activities;
  • Seeking funding for support of both national and regional activities;
  • Linking the affiliate chapters with other initiatives and representing them in international fora;
  • Managing and coordinating international donor support;
  • Formulating , overseeing , and coordinating operational standards of the affiliate chapters;
  • Managing accountability and reporting systems of the company Network including affiliate chapters;
  • Inspecting and audit records and accounts of the affiliate chapters;
  • Co-ordination of all the reports and research publication relating to the work done in pursuit of the company’s objects;
  • To promote, encourage and assist in various forms of product development through research analysis, publication, marketing, royalties, licensing and related activities for the benefit of the company;
  • To own and protect intellectual property including patent prosecution.

The Structure of the Secretariat

The Structure of the Secretariat

Acronyms

  • ED—Executive Director (Board appointed)
  • DRTC—Director of Research Training & Communications (Board appointed)
  • RTCL—Research Training and Communications Leader
  • SCOO—Senior Communications and Outreach Officer
  • FAM—Finance and Admin Manager
  • SSPAS—Senior Secretary/Programs Administrative Assistant
  • SROs—Senior Research Officers
  • ROs—Research Officers – Pre- or Post Doctorates
  • COOs—Communications Officers
  • STIP/NCLO—STI Policy / National Chapter Liaison Officer
  • AO—Accounts Officer
  • ITA—Information Technology Assistant
  • AAR—Administrative Assistant/ Receptionist
  • DM—Driver/Messenger
  • RAs/Interns—Research Assistants/Student Internship

Prof. Nicholas Ozor

Executive Director

Nicholas Ozor, B. Agric. (Nig., First Class Honours); MSc (Nig., Distinction) Ph.D. (Reading, UK & Nigeria), is the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) Nairobi, Kenya where he is responsible for direction of affairs and transactions of the organisation; the exercise, discharge and performance of its objectives, functions and duties; and the administration and control of employees. Prior to this appointment, he worked as the Senior Research Officer at the ATPS where he provided leadership in Research, Communication, Training and Outreach for the organization. He was formerly a Senior lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Extension, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He also worked as an Agricultural Extension Agent for many years with the Enugu State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Enugu State, Nigeria. Dr Ozor is a Commonwealth Scholar (Split-site Doctoral Programme) and holds the Best PhD Thesis Award in Agriculture in Nigeria, 2006, under the Nigerian Universities Doctoral Theses Award Scheme (NUDTAS) organized by the National Universities Commission. He holds the Wellcome Trust Award for the Best PhD Presenter in 2006 during the Development Studies Association Conference at the University of Reading, United Kingdom. He is also a Teaching Fellow and Mentor, African Climate Change Fellowship Programme (ACCFP), funded by the International global change SysTem for Analysis, Research and Training (START).Dr Ozor has led and is currently leading many internationally funded research projects bordering on science, technology and innovation (STI) ; natural resource management; innovation systems; climate change; development issues; policy development, analysis and advocacy; technology management and transfer; and private sector engagements. He has good mastery of the computers and its applications to problem solving situations. Dr Ozor is a member of many professional organizations and has published over 75 articles in reputable international journals and as book chapters. He has attended many international conferences/workshops aimed at evolving sustainable best practices for national, regional and international developments. He holds many distinctive prizes and awards for academic excellence and good community leadership. Dr Ozor’s vision is to be at the frontier of learning and in the consequent application of the rich knowledge acquired to make a positive difference to humanity. He is married to Gloria, a literary artiste, and blessed with children.Dr. Ozor’s Key Skills include:Fundraising from multiple donors in areas of STI including agriculture and food systems; environment and climate change; and low carbon energy development; etc. Core research, teaching and programme implementation across the STI areas stated above Network building with stakeholders at inpidual and institutional levels aimed at forging effective and efficient partnerships and collaborations to solve complex societal challenges Capacity building and training of varied stakeholders in STI including researchers, policymakers, civil society, the private sector and the media among others Policy analysis and advocacy across STI issues for empowering policymakers to utilize homegrown research evidence in policymaking processes that enhance development and good governance Knowledge valorization across STI issues that aim at bringing technology and innovation to the market place Outreach and Communication that aim to increase awareness and understanding of key STI issues among relevant stakeholders for use in development objectives Publications: very quick in transforming ideas from research into published outputs to contribute to the knowledge economy Leadership and mentorship: providing strategic direction for organizations and teams to achieve their goals as well as grooming the future leaders through informed mentorship and support systems

Engr. Prof. Joel Nwakaire

Postdoctoral Research Officer

Engr. Prof. Joel Nwakaire is a postdoctoral research fellow at the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS), Nairobi, Kenya. He is currently the Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture and Food Systems Innovation Research Network program officer. Joel Nwakaire is a Professor in the Agricultural and Bio-resources Engineering Department, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He has worked for 16 years as a lecturer in the Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering Department, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He obtained his PhD in 2013, and the product of his thesis was nominated as among the fifth most innovative work in Africa during the maiden edition of the Innovation Prize for Africa. Joel Nwakaire won an award as best serving National Youth Service Corps member in 2005 batch A in Nassarawa state, where he developed a low-cost maize sheller for rural dwellers. Joel obtained his Master’s degree in Engineering in 2009. Joel’s Master’s project on design, construction and testing of a 30 litre per hour continuous biodiesel plant won the first prize in an all African-wide Young Professional in Science competition in 2009 organized by CTA, ATPS, AGRA RUFORUM, and FARA. His publications have focused on biofuel, waste utilization, machines for agriculture, and energy management. He is committed to research on saving the planet through renewable energy. He acquired technical training as an auto-technician between the year 1992 and 2002. Joel has four (4) patented creative works. He has a keen interest in clean and renewable energy systems. He is passionate about teaching and knowledge transfer

Dr. Cynthia Ebere Nwobodo

Postdoctoral Research Officer

Dr Cynthia Ebere Nwobodo got her First Degree in Agricultural Extension from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka with a First Class Honours. She obtained her PhD in Agricultural Extension and Rural Livelihood from University of Nigeria, Nsukka and University of Reading, United Kingdom in 2017. She is a Postdoctoral Research Officer at ATPS. She is the Project Officer for the Strengthening the National Research and Innovation Funding Agencies in West Africa (SRIFA). She is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Extension, and a Senior Research Fellow at the Gender and Development Policy Centre of the University. Her research interest include: climate change and rural livelihood, community and value chain resilience, communication for development, gender issues in agriculture. She has over 10 years’ experience in community engagement and development communication. Dr. Cynthia is a Commonwealth scholar, and has won several research grants on climate change, gender issues, and rural livelihoods. She is a pioneer member of the Committee for Building Trans-disciplinary Climate Change Adaptation in the University of Nigeria which metamorphosed into the African Climate Change Adaptation Initiative. She has consulted for development organizations on including the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI Project No. 100039) on a project titled: “Bridging Climate Information Gaps to Strengthen Capabilities for Climate Informed Decision-Making in five African Countries of Cameroon, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, and Tunisia”. Her PhD thesis won the Vice Chancellor’s Postgraduate Prize of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka for the 2016/2017 academic year. Dr Cynthia has over 40 articles published in referred journals and conference proceedings.

Mr. Alfred Nyambane

Programme Manager

Mr. Nyambane holds Master’s degree in Environmental Science (Agro-forestry and Rural Development) and a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences. He is knowledgeable and experienced in community development, agriculture, forestry and climate change adaptation and mitigation projects. He has skills in data collection, compilation and analysis and has also crop modelling experience using Decision Support System for Agro-technology Transfer (DSSAT). He has taught part-time in several universities in Kenya. He worked as a Research Assistant at CIAT in the Soybean Project. Mr. Nyambane has also done a lot of work on solid waste management, drainage and sanitation as an Assistant Project Officer and as a consultant. He has done consultancy assignments with Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organization (KARLO), Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), ActionAid International, Pamoja Trust, Lake Victoria Environment Management Project II (LVEMP II), Lake Victoria Basin Commission, among others. He is a registered Lead Expert with NEMA.

Mr. Wentland Muhatiah

Research Officer

Wentland Muhatiah is a distinguished climate change specialist with extensive experience in developing and implementing sustainable solutions to address the complex challenges posed by climate change. With a solid academic background and hands-on experience in the field, he has become a recognized expert in climate resilience, adaptation strategies, and mitigation efforts, particularly within the African context. He has worked extensively on projects focused on integrating climate-smart technologies into agricultural practices, helping communities adapt to the changing climate while enhancing food security. His deep understanding of environmental policies and frameworks has enabled him to contribute significantly to the development of tracking tools and indexes that allow sub-Saharan African countries to effectively measure and report their progress in implementing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). His proficiency extends to capacity building, where he has led numerous training programs aimed at empowering local communities, governments, and organizations to adopt and implement climate-resilient practices. His strategic approach to problem-solving, combined with his ability to collaborate across multiple sectors, has made him a valuable asset in the fight against climate change and the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) space. As a dedicated professional, he continues to advocate for sustainable development and climate justice, working tirelessly to create a more resilient and equitable future for all. His commitment to the cause, coupled with his expertise, makes him a vital member of the African Technology Policy Studies (ATPS) Network.

Ms. Doreen Ongoro, CPA

Finance & Admin Officer

Doreen Ongoro is a distinguished Certified Public Accountant of Kenya (CPA-K), registered with ICPAK. With a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Finance and over five years of progressively enriching experience in accounting, finance, and administration, Doreen is a critical thinker and a dedicated team player. Her expertise spans essential financial areas such as budgeting, accounts reconciliation, financial reporting, and accounts payable and receivable. Doreen’s unwavering commitment to integrity, professionalism, and exemplary decision-making skills sets her apart, making her a trusted and invaluable asset in the field of accounting and finance.

Miss. Susan Aquila Mburu

Communication and Outreach Officer

Susan Aquila Mburu, an accomplished Communication Specialist, possesses an extensive skill set that spans various facets of communication. Her rich background includes expertise in television and radio production, documentary and film production, proficient editing, remarkable voice-over artistry, and strategic mastery of corporate communication. Susan’s educational foundation is robust, boasting a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Daystar University, an MBA from the University of South Wales, and a Master’s degree in Digital Marketing and Business from MBS. In addition to her impressive qualifications, Susan is an esteemed member of prestigious organizations such as the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK), Women in Film & Television (WIFT-K), and the Media Association of Kenya. Her unwavering passion for crafting and sharing impactful stories that catalyze positive transformations in people’s lives underscores her dedication as a relentless advocate for driving societal change. Susan’s commitment to her craft is undeniable and speaks volumes about her prowess in the field of communication.

Mr. Martin Waiguru

Finance and Admin Assistant

Martin is a detail-oriented and diligent finance professional with a solid background in financial management and administrative support. Equipped with strong organizational skills and a keen eye for accuracy, he excels in maintaining financial records, processing invoices and ensuring seamless office operations. With proficiency in financial software and a commitment to confidentiality, he contributes to operational efficiency and upholds high standards of professionalism in every task. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree (Finance Option) from The University of Nairobi and is a CPA finalist.

Mr. Ian Njuguna

IT Consultant

Ian Njuguna brings in vast wealth of knowledge with over 15 years of experience in the IT industry. He brings in expertise in IT department management, Web design and development, Information Systems Security, IT infrastructure management, and maintenance among many oher skills. A graduate of Africa Nazarene University

Winnie Juma

Administrative Assistant & PA to the Executive Director

Winnie Juma is a dedicated and resourceful Administrative Assistant at ATPS, where she ensures the organization’s smooth and efficient operation. With a degree in Business Administration, Winnie brings comprehensive knowledge of business operations, strategic planning, and organizational management to her multifaceted role. As the Personal Assistant to the Executive Director, she meticulously manages schedules, coordinates meetings, prepares reports, and handles correspondence, allowing the Executive Director to focus on strategic initiatives. Additionally, as the Secretary, she maintains records, documents meeting minutes, and ensures organizational documentation is up to date. Winnie also coordinates various programmes and projects, aligning them with ATPS’s strategic goals. Known for her proactive approach, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Winnie adeptly navigates NGO operations, ensuring seamless administrative functions and precision in achieving organizational goals. Her exceptional skills and dedication make her an invaluable asset to ATPS, embodying the mission and values of the organization.

Mr. Patrick Ng’ang’a

Logistician and Driver