Background information 

The Department of Research  Science and Technology (DRST), was established as a specialist research and development directorate in the then ministry of Research, Science and Technology (MRS&T), through Presidential Circular 1/87 of 8th June 1987.

Mandate and Functions

The mandates of the Directorate of Research Science and Technology are as follows:

• Formulate national policies for Science, Technology and innovation.
• Oversee the implementation of national policies for Science, Technology and innovation by various government agencies.
• Spearhead bilateral and multilateral cooperation in Science Technology and  Innovation.
• Coordinate services for science, Technology and innovation across national and County Governments.

The specific functions of the Directorate are:

• Coordinate the formulation, review and implementation of national policies for Science, Technology and innovations.
• Facilitate County Governments efforts to formulate, implement and review policies in Science, Technology  and innovation.
• Determine and advice on human capital skills and training requirements for Science, Technology and Innovation.
• Initiate, negotiate and participate in strategic international collaborations and partnerships in Science,  technology and innovation.
• Promote Kenya’s science diplomacy in strategic missions abroad
• Coordinate Implementation of international commitments, programs and projects on science and    technology.
• Facilitate science, technology and innovation collaboration between national and county governments, industry and academia.
• Establish and maintain an inventory and observatory system for National Science, technology & Innovation statistics.
• Coordinate establishment of Science Centers and Museums of Science, Technology and Innovation  Establish and coordinate science and technology and innovation recognition and reward system.
• Develop monitoring and evaluation systems for science, technology and innovation policies and strategies.