Dr. Watson Mbiriri
Interim Dean of Students and Chaplain, The Great Heights University
Devotional Speaker
Watson Mbiriri is an ordained pastor with over 23 years of ministerial service within the Adventist Church. His journey began as a school chaplain, progressing to serve as a district pastor, and most recently, as a departmental director at the Zimbabwe East Union Conference. Currently, he serves as the interim Dean of Students and Chaplain at The Great Heights University, a forthcoming institution established by the Church in Zimbabwe.
He holds a Ph.D. in the Old Testament from the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS). Prior to his studies at AIIAS, he pursued academic work at the University of Zimbabwe and Solusi University. Dr. Mbiriri is also an adjunct lecturer at the Adventist University of Africa and Solusi University.
His research interests focus on the prophets of Israel in the 8th century BC. He previously served two terms as president of the AIIAS African Theological Association. Dr. Mbiriri has authored, presented, and published numerous papers in various academic forums and journals. Currently, he is working on a project that proposes a novel canonical and historical interpretation of the Three Angels’ Messages.
Beyond biblical studies, he has a keen interest in astronomy, the science of origins, history—particularly church history—and enjoys creating creative videos. Dr. Mbiriri has been honored to serve as an invited speaker at various church meetings across multiple countries worldwide.
He is married to Dr. Alaisa, and together they are blessed with three children: Maka, Mako, and Tata. The family resides and works in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Prof. Rose Odhiambo
Chief Officer, Gender, Culture and Social Services, County Government of Migori, Kenya
Plenary Speaker, Research Conference: The Power of ONE in Shaping a More Morally Upright African Society
Prof. Rose Aoko Ogwang-Odhiambo is a distinguished scholar whose work seamlessly blends scientific expertise in parasitology and immunology with a passionate commitment to gender equity in education and institutional leadership. She is an Associate Professor of Immunology and Parasitology at Egerton University's Faculty of Science and a respected specialist in global health and gender mainstreaming.
As a former Director of the Gender Institute at Egerton and the first CEO of Kenya's National Gender and Equality Commission (2012–2014), Prof. Ogwang-Odhiambo has been a prominent advocate for women's education, health, and empowerment across Kenya. Her extensive research career at Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) spans over eight years, focusing on malaria and HIV/AIDS.
She co-founded the Women's Institute for Secondary Education and Research (WISER) in Migori County, which offers full scholarships and has empowered over 400 young women to pursue higher education. This initiative was launched in partnership with Duke University to promote HIV/AIDS awareness and education.
Her research publications encompass global health issues, including malaria, HIV/AIDS, parasitology, immunology, gender development, and science education policy. In 2014, she received the Head of State Commendation for her contributions. Currently, she serves as a Chief Officer in Migori County Government and sits on the boards of Kamagambo Adventist College and St. Albert's Girls Ulanda. Prof. Ogwang-Odhiambo is also a dedicated pastor's wife and mother of four sons and four grandchildren. Her work reflects a deep commitment to advancing equity, inclusion, and societal transformation.
Prof. Vincent Injety
Vice Chancellor, Adventist University of Africa
Plenary Speaker, Research Conference: The Integral Imperative of Moral Leadership
Professor Vincent Injety has over 35 years of experience serving in four higher education institutions, including 17 years in executive leadership roles. His professional journey has taken him to four countries in three SDA Divisions across two continents. Currently, he is the Vice-Chancellor of Adventist University of Africa.
He began his teaching career at Spicer Adventist University, India. He then moved to Solusi University, Zimbabwe, as MBA Program Director, later serving as Dean of the Faculty of Business, and then as Pro-Vice Chancellor. Afterwards, he joined Helderberg College of Higher Education, South Africa, as Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, then as Vice President for Academic Administration, and eventually as President before assuming his current role at Adventist University of Africa.
He holds a Master of Business Administration from Andrews University, a Doctor of Philosophy in Management from the University of Pune, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education from the University of South Africa. His teaching, research, and publications focus on Strategic Management, Leadership, and General Management.
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