Kabarak University Calls for Papers Ahead of 16th Annual International Research Conference

Researchers, educators, and students with a passion for shaping the future of education have an exciting opportunity ahead as Kabarak University prepares to host its 16th Annual International Research Conference on Contemporary Issues and Practice in Education. The conference, organized by the University’s Directorate of Research, Innovation and Outreach together with the School of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, is scheduled to take place on June 24, 2026, here at the main campus and will run in a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend both physically and virtually.

The annual conference has grown into an important academic platform where scholars, professionals, and students come together to exchange ideas, present research findings, and discuss emerging challenges in education. Over the years, it has encouraged conversations that go beyond theory and focus on practical solutions that can transform education systems in Kenya and beyond.

This year’s theme is “Navigating Transformative Education: Leadership, Learning, and Science for a Sustainable Future,” this reflects the growing recognition that education must continuously evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. From technological shifts to new teaching methods and sustainability challenges, the theme invites participants to explore how leadership, innovation, and scientific thinking can guide education toward a more resilient future.

The conference organizers have outlined several key tracks that reflect critical areas of interest in the education sector. These include Educational Leadership and Management, Innovative Teaching, Curriculum Studies, Future Design, and Science Education in the 21st Century. Each track provides researchers with the opportunity to present studies that address pressing educational issues while also proposing creative and practical solutions.

By focusing on these areas, the conference aims to encourage meaningful dialogue on how institutions can improve teaching and learning processes, develop forward-thinking curricula, and strengthen leadership in educational settings. The inclusion of science education also highlights the importance of preparing learners for a future driven by innovation, technology, and research.

For scholars interested in participating, the conference has opened its call for papers, inviting submissions from academics, researchers, and practitioners who are working in fields related to education and social sciences. According to the timeline provided by the organizers, submissions opened on February 28, 2026, while the deadline for paper submissions is April 5, 2026. Authors whose papers are accepted will receive notifications by April 15, 2026, giving them sufficient time to prepare for presentation and participation in the event.

Participants are also encouraged to register for the conference before April 30, 2026, as part of the preparation for the event scheduled in June. The conference will culminate in a day of presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities that bring together voices from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

The conference fees have been structured to encourage participation from different groups. Undergraduate students from Kabarak University will pay a subsidized participation fee, while Kenyan participants will receive benefits such as a certificate, the conference book of abstracts, meals, and stationery. International participants are also welcome and can join the event virtually or physically by paying the designated participation fee.

Beyond the formal presentations, the conference is expected to foster collaboration among scholars and institutions. Academic conferences like this often serve as spaces where new partnerships begin, research ideas evolve, and young researchers find mentorship from experienced scholars.

As universities continue to play a critical role in knowledge creation and social development, initiatives such as this conference highlight the importance of research-driven dialogue. By bringing together experts from different fields, the event reinforces the idea that education is not static but a dynamic system that must adapt to societal needs.

Ultimately, the 16th Annual International Research Conference at Kabarak University represents more than just an academic gathering. It is an invitation to think deeply about the future of education and to contribute ideas that can inspire meaningful change. For scholars eager to share their work and engage with fellow researchers, this conference offers a valuable platform to be part of an important conversation shaping education for generations to come.