The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nairobi continues to expand its global footprint following a successful courtesy visit by Prof. Thomas Mbuya Ochuku and Eng. Muthomi Munyua to leading French institutions within Université Paris-Saclay, including Chimie ParisTech and CentraleSupélec.

The visit aimed at deepening collaboration in research, innovation, and postgraduate training, with a strong emphasis on materials engineering, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable infrastructure systems.

Advancing Research in Materials and Infrastructure

Building on earlier discussions, the team explored collaborative research opportunities in corrosion science, material durability, and structural performance. Key focus areas included:

• Corrosion of galvanised steel and atmospheric corrosion
• Soil–structure interaction and corrosion in aggressive environments
• Mechanical behaviour and fatigue loading of materials
• Advanced characterisation using Raman microscopy, infrared analysis, and SEM techniques

These areas form the foundation for joint research proposals and postgraduate training pathways.

Additive Manufacturing and Innovation Ecosystems

A major highlight of the visit was engagement with the 3D printing and additive manufacturing laboratories at CentraleSupélec, a leading hub for innovation within Université Paris-Saclay.Prof. Ochuku toured the advanced facilities accompanied by Eng. Muthomi Munyua, who is currently enrolled at École Normale Supérieure (ENS) Paris-Saclay, also a member of Université Paris-Saclay. The labs showcased cutting-edge capabilities in:

• Additive manufacturing and 3D printing technologies
• CNC machining, laser cutting, and plasma cutting systems
• Water-jet cutting and precision fabrication tools
• Prototyping and product development workflows

The facilities are supported by student-led innovation spaces such as FABLABs, enabling practical, hands-on engineering development and entrepreneurship.

Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Funding Opportunities

Discussions also focused on establishing an innovation ecosystem within the University of Nairobi, drawing lessons from CentraleSupélec’s model. Key considerations included:

• Development of an innovation hub, supported by potential funding (up to EUR 700,000 identified in discussions)
• Engagement with European Innovation Council (EIC) and Horizon Europe programmes
• Participation in Marie-Curie Doctoral Networks
• Promotion of student-led innovation, hackathons, and incubation centres

The discussions highlighted the importance of aligning research with industry applications, supporting patent development, and fostering entrepreneurship among engineering students.

Emerging Collaboration Areas

Several thematic areas for future collaboration were identified, including:

• Smart and additive manufacturing
• Renewable and hydrogen energy systems
• Biomaterials, biomass, and sustainable construction materials
• AI-driven engineering and digital innovation
• Forestry and wood-based materials for climate-smart construction

The institutions also discussed joint participation in summer schools, doctoral training programmes, and collaborative research proposals targeting international funding frameworks.

Strengthening Institutional Linkages

The visit reinforced ties with key collaborators, including Dr. Polina Volovitch, and opened pathways for:

• Student and staff exchange programmes
• Joint supervision of postgraduate research
• Shared use of laboratory infrastructure
• Coordinated research publication and dissemination

Logistical considerations such as student accommodation, sample transportation, and structured research timelines were also addressed to support smooth collaboration.

Delegation

The Faculty of Engineering remains committed to strengthening international partnerships that enhance research excellence, innovation capacity, and global competitiveness. This collaboration with Université Paris-Saclay institutions represents a strategic step towards positioning the University of Nairobi as a leader in advanced engineering research and innovation.