Ford Foundation Vice-President visits University

Abstract

The University of Nairobi (UoN) recognizes the importance of establishing and enhancing collaborative linkages based on mutual understanding, equal partnership and reciprocity with institutions. During a courtesy call by a team from the Foundation led by Ms. Hilary Pennington, Vice President, Education, Free Expression and creativity, Ms. Pennington said that Ford Foundation values its relationship with UoN that dates back to 1962, when the first grant was given. She noted the University management’s commitment to demonstrate profound respect for partnerships. The Foundation has to date given a total of 83 grants to the University. The last grant of US$ 60,450 was given in 2013 to the School of Law in support of a conference on the Kenyan Supreme Court decision on the March 2013 presidential election. In 2012, UoN benefited from grant of US$ 500,000 to renovate and modernize the Taifa Hall. In 2011 a grant was the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) amounting to US$350,000 to study the history and nature of civil movements in East Africa and work with civil society to strengthen and sustain them. While US$270,000 was granted to the School of Journalism and Mass Communication to conduct research and write popular biographies of six prominent Kenyan women, provide training and mentoring on autobiography and biography writing and produce a short documentary on selected women. Prof. Henry Mutoro, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, said that the University has benefited greatly from the relationship with the Foundation and was looking forward to more activities with the Foundation.Mr. Maurice Makoloo, Ford Regional Representative, accompanied the Vice-president while Prof. Isaac Mbeche, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs, Prof. Patricia Kameri- Mbote, Dean, School of Law, Prof. W.O. Ogara, Director, Centre for International Programmes and Linkages, Dr. Sylvester Masu, Manager, Construction and Maintenance, among others were present during the meeting.