UoN marks its 5th Anniversary as a Chartered Institute of Public Relations Accredited Teaching Centre
On August 2, 2025, the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) – University of Nairobi Accredited Teaching Centre, celebrated two milestones; the graduation of its 5th cohort and the fifth anniversary of the establishment of CIPR ATC at the University of Nairobi.
This year’s graduation ceremony honoured 12 graduands ready to be PR leaders, that will shape narratives strategically and ethically. While sharing their testimonials, the graduates saw the day as a proud marker of resilience, dedication, and a journey of chasing growth to become leaders in the global Public Relations landscape.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Hutchinson, whose speech was read by Prof. Jack Odhiambo, Dean Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, lauded the graduands for earning the prestigious certification.
“I extend my warmest congratulations to each of the graduands. This qualification is not just an accreditation; it is a mark of global recognition, exemplifying excellence, professionalism, and integrity in the practice of Public Relations. Your professional diplomas and certificates are a testament to your dedication and commitment to learning. They demonstrate that you are now equipped to excel in strategic communication, reputation building, and relationship building – skills that are vital in today’s interconnected and rapidly changing world.”
The Vice Chancellor also appreciated the CIPR UoN team for their commitment to train leaders for the PR industry, as they celebrated their five-year journey.
“This achievement reflects the passion and dedication of our team whose pursuit of excellence has inspired the success of this centre. May you continue to make significant contributions to the PR industry across borders by building a critical mass of PR professionals that create value for business while upholding ethical standards.”
The CIPR Programme Coordinator, Mr John Orindi reflected on the programme’s experience – the rigorous learning that required sacrifices - and the challenges faced. He highlighted the value the PR Programme puts on research and case analysis to equip the learners with practical knowledge. He also encouraged the MCIPRs to continue further training in more PR programmes.
Lucia Musau, a CIPR alumna and CEO, Africa Ellite Group urged the group to lead with courage and heart. “Lean forward by embracing innovation, by listening deeply to communities, clients, colleagues, and even critics. Lean forward by owning your role in shaping a continent’s image because African PR is not just a tool for messaging, but a megaphone for meaning, for culture, for change. And above all, lean forward with integrity. Data may guide us, trends may excite us, but ethics will define us.”
Mariam Maina, Diploma Course Lead and Moses Opolot, Certificate Course Lead shared their congratulatory messages with the graduands. Mariam assured them of the benefits of the CIPR Qualification, 'I have seen the benefits of the CIPR Qualification and I am sure you will experience the benefits too,' She reminisced the five- year journey and urged all the other stakeholders to uphold excellence in the PR Profession. Mr. Opolot urged them to be great ambassadors of the programme.
Esther Nekesa, who was the Master of Ceremony, and serves as an admin and one of the CIPR tutor, heartfelt congratulations to the cohort and urged them to take immense pride in their wins. She also encouraged the group to embrace networking as she quoted, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”
Since the launch of CIPR-UoN Accredited Teaching Centre, over 130 PR practitioners in East Africa have been awarded CIPR certifications and joined the 11,000 globally accredited PR practitioners. CIPR-UoN continues to be instrumental in raising the bar for the practice of PR and effective communication.
For those who would like to apply for any of the CIPR programmes, please send your expression of interest through email : cipr@uonbi.ac.ke
