10th Alumni Chapter launched as C4D Lab is activated

Abstract

Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication and Technology, Dr. Fred Matiang’i, yesterday, April 8th, 2014, launched the 10th alumni chapter; School of Computing and Informatics (SCI) Alumni Chapter and activated the Computing for Development (C4D) Lab

He noted that the initiative will not only nurture creativity and innovation but also address some of the problems and challenges and create opportunities in society. He noted that ICT was one of the key enablers of development in Kenya and that the Government has invested in a number of considerable investments in ICT infrastructure.

Dr. Matiang’i challenged the alumni association to keep its members updated on its activities and engage them in various projects. He highlighted the need to create and strengthen relationships between the University and the private sector players.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Henry Mutoro, noted that the University is strategically positioned and endowed with a huge pool of talent and resources to continue providing leadership in technological innovation. He said that the University management is committed to seeing the initiative grow and challenged the drivers to see that its objectives are realized.

The C4D Lab is focusing on technology incubation and prototype development. Already, the innovation lab is incubating 12 technology start-ups which are undergoing mentorship and training with the aim of nurturing them into sustainable companies in the near future. The steering committee of the Lab is exploring ways to raise funds to realize its goals.

The event which was held at the Chiromo Campus Court attracted many University of Nairobi (UoN) alumni mainly drawn from the SCI, students, members of staff and industry partners.