The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nairobi emerged as one of the top performers at the annual Staff Recognition and Awards Ceremony, held on Monday, February 10, 2025. The event, which evaluated ten faculties, 63 teaching departments, and 13 central units, celebrated outstanding contributions to academia, research, and service delivery.

The Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Verkooijen, set the tone for the ceremony, acknowledging the vital role of staff excellence in the university’s success. “And today, we are recognizing those of you leading the charge in staff excellence. Let us celebrate your success today, and your service as staff,” he stated. He also unveiled an ambitious 24-month reform agenda aimed at restoring the University of Nairobi to the top of Africa’s academic rankings.

The Faculty of Engineering secured the second position among the best-performing faculties, solidifying its reputation as a hub of innovation and academic rigor. The Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering was recognized as the third-best-performing teaching department, further emphasizing the faculty’s commitment to excellence.

Among individual achievements, Dr. Sammy Mulei Musyoka was named the second-best Lecturer of the Year, a student-led award that honors teaching excellence. Dr. Peter Akuon clinched the top spot in the Innovation and Creativity category for his groundbreaking phototherapy machine, which received KES 15 million in commercialization funding from the National Research Fund (NRF).

The faculty’s commitment to community engagement was also recognized, as it secured the first position in the Community Service category for its involvement in charity activities, community sensitization programs, and waste management initiatives in collaboration with external partners.

The ceremony also paid tribute to long-serving staff, with Prof. Elijah Mabi Mwangi (Electrical and Information Engineering) and Prof. Julius M. Ogola (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering) each honored for 43 years of service. Mr. Wilfred Mushogo Wamutitu (Environmental and Biosystems Engineering) was recognized for 39 years of dedication to the university.

Prof. Amukowa Anangwe, Chair of the University Council, addressed critical challenges such as declining student enrollment and research output. “The Council has noted with concern that the university’s productivity is on a downward trend. Performance management tools like Performance Contracts are critical in enhancing productivity, improving our ranking, and restoring our reputation,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Margaret Jesang reinforced the importance of staff recognition in shaping the university’s future. “This event holds a special place in our university’s calendar, offering us an opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of our staff—the backbone of our Institution's success,” she noted.

Celebrating the Best

The awards also highlighted the stellar performance of individual staff members within the Faculty of Engineering. Recognized for their dedication and exceptional contributions were:

• Prof. John Bosco K. Kiema (Geospatial and Space Technology)
• Prof. Zablon N.S Oonge (Civil and Construction Engineering)
• Prof. Faith Njoki Karanja (Geospatial and Space Technology)
• Mr. Davies Rene Segera (Electrical and Information Engineering)
• Ms. Pauline Kisuna (Dean’s Office, Faculty of Engineering)
• Mr. Samuel Nganga Gatimu (Civil and Construction Engineering)
• Mrs. Alice Wanjiku Wahome (Electrical and Information Engineering)
• Mr. Stephen Ochieng Odhiambo (Civil and Construction Engineering)
• Ms. Margaret Wambui Muriithi (Civil and Construction Engineering)
• Ms. Diana Njoki Githinji (Civil and Construction Engineering)
• Mr. Robert Mwangi Mathenge (Environmental and Biosystems Engineering)
• Ms. Lynn Wanjiru Gichamba (Environmental and Biosystems Engineering)
• Ms. Evelyne Emukule Etyang (Environmental and Biosystems Engineering)
• Mr. Haron Onkundi Nyaberi (Environmental and Biosystems Engineering)
• Ms. Charity Kwamboka Onsongo (Environmental and Biosystems Engineering)
• Ms. Sylvia Mitu Gaita (Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering)

As the university embarks on its ambitious reform agenda, the Faculty of Engineering stands poised to play a leading role in this transformation. With innovation, dedication, and academic excellence at its core, the faculty continues to shape the future of engineering in Kenya and beyond.

For the University of Nairobi, February 10 was more than just an awards ceremony—it was a reaffirmation of its commitment to excellence, with the Faculty of Engineering leading the charge.

Click here to watch the Award Ceremony:  https://youtube.com/live/rpt5GG1mW1k?feature=share