During the 54th International Conference of ATUPA at Lake Naivasha Resort which took place from August 26th to 30th, Professor Laila Abubakar, the Vice-Chancellor of the Technical University of Mombasa, was honoured with the prestigious ‘ATUPA 2024 Award of Excellence for Development in Africa’. This recognition follows her successful completion of a four-year tenure as the chair of the Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA).

The theme of the conference was "Revolutionizing TVET in Africa: Embracing Innovations for Sustainable Development," and it was inaugurated by Education Cabinet Secretary H.E. Julius Migos Ogamba. During the event, there were discussions on encouraging member states to collectively elevate Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as the continent's "SKILL CAPITAL." The overall goal is to improve youth employability, mobility, decent work opportunities, and lifelong learning. Furthermore, CS Ogamba announced the deployment of 2,000 trainers to 242 TVET institutions nationwide.

Prof. Laila holds several special appointments at both national and international levels and is renowned for her significant research contributions, particularly in the field of Biochemistry. Under her leadership, ATUPA conferences were hosted in various African countries including Ghana, Zimbabwe, Senegal, and Tanzania, with this year's event taking place in Naivasha, Kenya.

Professor Laila's dedication, leadership, outstanding achievements, and contributions to academia and research serve as an inspiration to aspiring scholars and leaders.