UoN Alumni Newsletter (September, 2012)

Abstract

There comes a time when one must take action to turn a dream into reality. Since the inauguration of the University of Nairobi Alumni Association (UONAA) in 2005, we have held onto our dream of having a home away from home for members. This dream is the proposed Alumni Centre. As a step towards achieving this dream, the University of Nairobi Council has donated a plot of land in a prime area in Nairobi – the Arboretum Drive - for the construction of the Alumni Centre.

This is indeed a big leap in translating the dream into reality. It also throws up vast opportunities to the alumnibe it in their private, corporate, individual, business or professional capacities to participate and determine the transit of this dream into the league of other great Alumni Associations – with excellent Alumni Centres.

As the UONAA interim chairperson, Dr Betty Gikonyo stated during the University of Nairobi 47th Graduation ceremony held on August 24, this year, our dream has been to build a state-of-the-art Alumni Centre which alumni can call home. As we launch our next transformation stage, we welcome our alumni, students, alma mater and friends of the University to join hands with us in raising funds for building a world class Alumni Centre.

The fundraising campaign launch for the Alumni Centre is scheduled to take place soon. Contributions which can be inform of cash, ideas or professional services will go a long way in turning this dream into reality.

The gesture of giving back to our alma mater is but a token when one considers lifelong careers and professional foundations established by years of training at the University of Nairobi. Albert Einstein aptly captured this when he asserted “A hundred times every day, I remind myself that my inner life and outer life is based on the labor of other men, living and dead, and that I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and are still receiving.” As alumni of this great institution, we deserve a home away from home and the Alumni Centre will provide thus.

This can only be achieved if we all joined hands and give towards the achievement of this dream. This edition is, therefore, dedicated to informing you and mobilizing towards the launch of the fundraising for the Alumni Centre. Most of the articles are as a result of our engagement with alumni while soliciting support and ideas towards the Alumni Centre.

The editorial team will continue this engagement with individuals, corporations, members and students. Welcome and stay with us as we strive towards the achievement of this bold and visionary hallmark.