Responsible Mentorship: Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice: A Case Study of KALRO-CRI, Kenya: A Literature Review Report

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic literature review aimed at facilitating responsible mentoring to
bridge the divide between research and practice within KALRO-CRI, Kenya. The study draws on
sources from Google Scholar. The systematic review delves into professional development and
mentorship across diverse fields, spotlighting the significance of networks and mentoring in aiding
transitions. The review suggests enhancements in postgraduate mentorship satisfaction and
introduces the TAD Framework, a proposed mechanism to augment compatibility between mentors
and mentees. It advocates for formal mentoring initiatives catering to Early Career Academics,
highlighting the synergy between scientific pursuits and practical application. Notably, the review
underlines the criticality of interpersonal skills for graduate triumph and suggests collaboration
between academia and industry to combat graduate unemployment challenges. Emphasizing the
imperative of collaboration for building trust and achieving successful outcomes, the review
concludes by advocating the establishment of structured mentoring programs and the cultivation of
interdependence in professional milieus. Additionally, it explores the significance of interpersonal
aptitudes and the seamless integration of fresh graduates into the workforce through academiaindustry collaboration. The study asserts that mentorship should be viewed as an ongoing process
rather than a singular event. It advocates for a structured program tailored to workplace dynamics
and overseen by mentors, positing that such an approach can effectively narrow the gap between
research and practice. The review also underscores the significance of an optimally oriented
mentorship period to equip graduates, postgraduates, and working professionals with the tools to
function as autonomous practitioners. Notably, mentorship contributes to bolstering the confidence
of both mentors and mentees, facilitating an environment where mentor-leadership is revered.