The National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) selection panel has shortlisted candidates seeking appointment as chairperson and members to the board.
In a notice on April 7, the the chairperson of NACOSTI, Florence Olubayo, said the panel had invited applications from qualified individuals for one chairperson position and three member positions.
“Pursuant to the provisions of Section 5(8) and (11) of the Science, Technology and Innovation Act, CAP. 511, the Selection Panel invited applications from suitably qualified persons for nomination for appointment to the positions of Chairperson (1 Position) and Members (3 Positions) of the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) Board,” read part of the notice.
She added that the advertisement was published on February 24, 2026, and closed on March 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
NACOSTI Invites Shortlisted Candidates for Interview
According to Florence Olubayo, the panel received 87 applications for both positions.
However, 11 submissions were received after the deadline and were not considered, leaving 76 eligible applications for long-listing.
Of these, 6 applicants applied for the chairperson role, 64 for member positions, while some did not specify the position they sought.
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Following the review, four candidates were shortlisted for the chairperson position, with interviews scheduled for April 15, 2026.
Additionally, 23 candidates were shortlisted for member positions, with interviews scheduled for April 16, 17, 20, and 21, 2026.
List of Shortlisted candidates
| No. | Name | County | Gender | PWD Status |
| 1 | Dr. Vincent Agala Dudi Choka | Vihiga | Male | Not Stated |
| 2 | Dr. Festus Murithi Merme | Meru | Male | Yes |
| 3 | Prof. Gideon Howard Nzioka Nyamasyo | Makueni | Male | No |
| 4 | Prof. Vasey N. Mwaja | Meru | Male | No |
| No. | Name | County | Gender | PWD Status |
| 1 | Gesembe Sammy Ogaro | Kisii | Male | No |
| 2 | Thomas Odol Ojwang | Siaya | Male | Not Stated |
| 3 | Paul Gathii Wanjiru | Murang’a | Male | Not Stated |
| 4 | Enock Kuyoni Topisia | Narok | Male | Not Stated |
| 5 | Nicasio Karani Migwi Nduku | Kirinyaga | Male | Not Stated |
| 6 | Mary Mutete Mwanzia | Machakos | Female | Not Stated |
| 7 | Edward K. Boar | Nandi | Male | Not Stated |
| 8 | Bornes Chelangat Mosonik | Kericho | Female | No |
| 9 | Shad Langat Koros | Nakuru | Male | No |
| 10 | Joel Onditi | Kisumu | Male | No |
| 11 | David Kiplagat Kimeli | Elgeyo-Marakwet | Male | No |
| 12 | Mugambi George Kaberia M’Nchebere | Meru | Male | No |
| 13 | Metha Liyod Kaburu | Tharaka Nithi | Male | No |
| 14 | Alfred O. Mango | Kisumu | Male | No |
| 15 | Thomas Katua Ngui | Machakos | Male | No |
| 16 | Festus Murithi Meme | Meru | Male | Yes |
| 17 | Josephine Kibaru | Embu | Female | No |
| 18 | Sammy Muttal | Trans Nzoia | Male | No |
| 19 | Michael N. Walekhwa | Bungoma | Male | Not Stated |
| 20 | Davidson Mghanga Mwaisaka | Taita Taveta | Male | No |
| 21 | Tom Kahigu | Nyandarua | Male | No |
| 22 | Hussein Molu Abkallo | Isiolo | Male | No |
| 23 | Maureen Victoria Auka | Nairobi | Female | No |
Interview Requirements
Shortlisted candidates have been advised to report at least 30 minutes before their scheduled interview time.
They are required to bring original documents, including a national identification card, academic and professional certificates, and supporting testimonials.
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Additionally, the candidates must present valid clearance certificates from agencies such as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, registered credit reference bureaus, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations(DCI).
NACOSTI further noted that candidates should submit a letter of recognition of qualifications from the Commission for University Education (CUE) for any degree obtained from foreign universities.
They must also provide an affidavit to verify the names that appear differently in submitted documents, where applicable.
About NACOSTI
NACOSTI is a state corporation established under the Science, Technology, and Innovation Act of 2013.
It regulates and assures quality in the science, technology, and innovation sector and advises the Government in matters related thereto.
NACOSTI leads inter-agency efforts to implement sound policies and budgets, working in collaboration with the county governments and organizations involved in science and technology and innovation within Kenya and outside Kenya.
The organization advises the national and county governments on science, technology, and innovation policy, including general planning and the assessment of necessary financial resources.
In cooperation with the National Innovation Agency and the National Research Fund, NACOSTI works to ensure funding and implementation of prioritized research programs.
The state corporation ensures coordination and cooperation between the various agencies involved in science, technology, and innovation.
Additionally, it accredits research institutes and approves all Scientific research in Kenya.
