4,000 Graduates Stronger ,New Management and Launch of Transformative Big 5 Initiatives at UoN's 71st Graduation
The University of Nairobi on Friday, September 20, 2024 celebrated its annual graduation ceremony with a historic twist. It was the first for the new Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Verkooijen who was not only inaugurated but also officially launched the University of Nairobi Big 5 initiatives; five ambitious projects designed to cement the University of Nairobi’s position as a leader in education, innovation, and sustainable development.
The University of Nairobi Big 5 initiatives are:
- Nairobi Advanced Health Research Institute (NAHRI): Dedicated to doubling the University of Nairobi’s research output, NAHRI will be a key player in addressing global health challenges, particularly those exacerbated by climate change. The University of Nairobi already boasts over 200 research centers, making this new institute a significant addition to its capabilities.
- Kenya Green Jobs Center: With Kenya’s grid already at 75% renewable energy, the Green Jobs Center will train the next generation of green economy leaders, aiming to place over 500 graduates annually in key sectors such as sustainable energy and urban development.
- University of Nairobi Innovation Park: Nairobi is Africa’s second-largest tech hub, and the University of Nairobi Innovation Park will further enhance this status by supporting over 100 start-ups each year, creating more than 5,000 jobs annually.
- Nairobi School of AI: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. The Nairobi School of AI will position the University of Nairobi as a leader in AI education, offering one of Africa’s first Master’s programs focused on AI and generating top-tier talent ready for global competition.
- TBC Barack Obama Leadership Institute: The Leadership institute will offer dual degrees, executive training, and graduate law programs aimed at strengthening governance and leadership across Africa.
Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, Professor Patrick Verkooijen, in his address highlighted the significance of these initiatives: "Today, we stand at a crossroads where education, innovation, and leadership converge. The University of Nairobi Big 5 initiatives are our answer to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. We are committed to driving change not just within Kenya but across the African continent."
The Cabinet Secretary of Education, Hon. Julius Migos congratulated the graduands and acknowledged the dynamic workforce and the future of work, ‘As we look toward the future, it is clear that the nature of work is changing. The digital economy presents both opportunities and challenges, and it is essential that we prepare our graduates to excel in this new environment. Remote jobs and digital careers are now becoming central to the global workforce, and Kenya is well-positioned to lead in this space.’
Prof. Amukowa Anangwe, Chair of Council congratulated the Chancellor on his inauguration and pledged the council's support on the big 5 transformative initiatives. He highlighted the University's financial standing and the low levels of students enrollment to the institution. Prof. Anangwe promised the UoN Community that the Council will refurbish the students' hostels and increase the bed capacity, 'To our dear students and their guardians, we have heard your concerns regarding the state of the halls of residence. Efforts are underway to refurbish them, and I commit that the Council will set aside 30% of revenue collected towards the restoration of hostels over the next three years. Additionally, we are in advanced discussions with the Ministries of Education and Treasury to add 4,000 bed space, on top of our current capacity of 9,856.'
While congratulating the graduands during her maiden speech, the Ag Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jesang Hutchinson announced her three key strategic areas of focus, ‘My primary focus will center around three key strategic priorities: securing the long-term sustainability of our university, creating an environment that nurtures and cultivates talent, and expanding our influence in the fields of research and innovation.
Prof. Hutchinson added, "The launch of the Big 5 initiatives is a defining moment for our university. These programs will not only enhance the University of Nairobi’s reputation but also contribute significantly to Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. We are excited about the partnerships and opportunities that lie ahead."
These initiatives are expected to attract significant global partnerships and investments, further positioning the University of Nairobi as a central player in Africa’s socio-economic development.
Valedictorian, John Odoyo, from the Faculty of Built Environment and Design spoke on behalf of the graduating class of 2024. He congratulated his fellow graduands, the teaching staff and his friends and guardians for the support offered during his study.
Mr. Isaac Awuondo, Chair of University of Nairobi Alumni Association, welcomed the graduates to register for membership at the Alumni Association, He emphasized, ‘Our society need graduates who can provide solutions to the myriad problems we face, especially in the area of health, education, food, environment, safety, peace and conflicts, and other challenges facing our society, using tools and exposure gained from spending their time at the University of Nairobi. I am confident that the University management is up to the task of making the University a globally competitive institution which can participate in transforming society.
The 71st Graduation Ceremony that was themes, 'Transforming Society with innovative and adaptive graduates' saw 117 PhDs, 552 Master’s degrees, 3 Fellowships, 3,716 Bachelor’s, or Diplomas and Postgraduate degrees conferred and awarded.
Watch the 71st Graduation ceremony
