Varsity Focus (Dec, 2012)

Abstract

Our final edition of the 2012 Varsity Focus highlights some of the recent activities of the last quarter of this year and in a nutshell, reflects on some o f the major ccomplishments.

This year we recorded the highest ever number of graduates from the University of Nairobi - the 47th and 48 congregations have released over 13,000 degree and diploma holders into the job market, highlighting the strategic importance of University of Nairobi in providing quality human resources to drive the country towards the attainment of the Kenya Vision 2030.

The University has also increased collaborations with leading international universities to raise resources that will aid research, student and staff exchange and scholarships among others. On this front, Universities from the US, UK, China, South Africa, Uganda and Sudan, among others, have either formally signed memorandum of understanding or began collaboration talks with UoN.

The University also hosted local and foreign dignitaries in intellectual discourse with students and staff.

The President of Ford Foundation, Antony Louis Ubiñas, the Chief Justice, Dr. Willy Mutunga and representatives from the UN, IMF and World Bank have interacted with the UoN Community in recent times. The Ford Foundation President, while giving his talk also announced a grant of USD 500,000 to refurbish Taifa Hall and modernize it to suit the academic activities it has become synonymous with.

Students on their part have been active in participating in international forums and engaging in innovative ventures. Wallace Chwalla, an engineering student, was privileged to share a forum with the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, while three School of Business students were named worthy Google Ambassadors, for seizing the opportunity to use technology to promote sustainable development.

The Women Student Welfare Association (WOSWA) through the Chairperson Nzilani Muia, participated in regional forums which advocate for faster development by integrating women into key decision making positions in grassroots organizations and at a national level.

The psychology Club in conjunction with other stakeholders, engaged in corporate social responsibility activities by helping needy children in Kawangware, through counseling and mentorship. These and other stories constitute our 2012 final edition of the Varsity Focus.

I hope you enjoy reading it. Do not hesitate to give us your feedback.

- Charles E. Sikulu -