The Science, Technology and Innovation Act, 2013 established the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) as successor of the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST).
According to the Section 6(1) of the Science, Technology and Innovation Act 2013, the functions of the Commission shall be to:
- develop, in consultation with stakeholders, the priorities in scientific, technological and innovation activities in Kenya in relation to the economic and social policies of the Government, and the country's international commitments;
- lead inter-agency efforts to implement sound policies and budgets, working in collaboration with the county governments, and organisations involved in science and technology and innovation within Kenya and outside Kenya;
- advise the national and county governments on the science, technology and innovation policy, including general planning and assessment of the necessary financial resources;
- liaise with the National Innovation Agency and the National Research Fund to ensure funding and implementation of prioritized research programmes;
- ensure co-ordination and co-operation between the various agencies involved in science, technology and innovation;
- accredit research institutes and approve all Scientific research in Kenya;
- assure relevance and quality of science, technology and innovation programmes in research institutes;
- advise on science education and innovation at both basic and advanced levels;
- promote increased awareness, knowledge and information of research system;
- co-ordinate, monitor and evaluate, as appropriate, activities relating to scientific research and technology development;
- promote and encourage private sector involvement in scientific research and innovation and development;
- annually, review the progress in scientific research systems and submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the Cabinet Secretary;
- promote the adoption and application of scientific and technological knowledge and information necessary in attaining national development goals;
- develop and enforce codes, guidelines and regulations in accordance with the policy determined under this Act for the governance, management and maintenance of standards and quality in research systems; and
- undertake, or cause to be undertaken, regular inspections, monitoring and evaluation of research institutions to ensure compliance with set standards and guidelines.
