The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nairobi welcomed its new first-year students during an orientation held on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, at the Mechanical Block.

The orientation introduced students to the Faculty’s five departments, their academic leadership and the opportunities available to them throughout their university journey. The departments are Civil and Construction Engineering, headed by Prof.  Eng. Simpson Osano Nyambane; Electrical and Information Engineering, headed by Prof. Eng. Abraham Mutunga Nyete; Environmental and Biosystems Engineering, headed by Prof. Eng. Duncan O. Mbuge; Geospatial and Space Technology, headed by Prof. Eng. David Nyangau Siriba; and Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, headed by Eng. Dr. Kenneth D. Njoroge.

The students were encouraged to take their studies seriously, with a reminder that “not everyone graduates,” and that progression to graduation depends on the effort, discipline and commitment invested in their studies.

The Dean, Prof. Siphila Wanjiku Mumenya, emphasised the importance of discipline and consistent class attendance, noting that engineering is a technical course that requires students to be present and engaged in their learning. She cautioned the first-year students against missing classes, stressing that they “cannot afford to miss classes” at this early stage of their engineering journey.

Dr. Eng. Damaris, lecturer in the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering at the University of Nairobi and a prominent council member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), introduced the students to IEK, highlighting professional membership, career opportunities and mentorship programmes available to aspiring engineers.

The Engineering Students Association (ESA) also engaged the students, explaining its role in supporting engineering students, upcoming activities and how students can participate in its programmes. A representative from the Confucius Institute introduced students to Chinese language programmes and highlighted career opportunities arising from Kenya-China partnerships. Students were encouraged to explore language learning as an additional skill that can enhance their professional prospects. The orientation also featured representatives from Sports and Persons with Disabilities (PWD), who informed students about opportunities for participation in sports and available support and membership programmes. The Dean of Students’ Office further briefed the students on its role in supporting student welfare and addressing their needs throughout their university life. The Faculty’s ICT representative guided the students on activating and using their student portals and University email accounts, and informed them about the digital skills training scheduled for Thursday.

The orientation provided the new students with a broader understanding of life at the University, emphasizing that success in engineering goes beyond academic work and requires active participation, discipline and making use of the professional, leadership and personal development opportunities available to them.