A delegation of students from the University of Nairobi Students Association (UNSA) Led by the Dean of Students Johnson Ireri Kinyua visited the Parliament of Kenya on Friday, January 26, 2024. The purpose of the visit was to gain valuable insights on establishing a student-led parliament, a platform that will be designed to address and discuss matters directly affecting students’ campus experience.

The students were welcomed by officials from the Kenyan Parliament, who shared their knowledge on the intricacies of parliamentary proceedings. In an engaging exchange, the UNSA team was given a comprehensive understanding of the structure and functioning of the parliament, providing a blueprint for the envisioned student led forum.

The initiative, spearheaded by UNSA, reflects a commitment to ensuring that the concerns and perspectives of university students are acknowledged and actively incorporated into decision making processes. By seeking inspiration from the parliamentary model, UNSA aims to create a dedicated space where students can collaboratively address issues pertaining to campus life, academics, and overall student experience.

The Dean of Students eagerly anticipates the evolution of this student led initiative, as it holds the promise of fostering a more inclusive and participatory campus environment and also it is a shared endeavor to enrich the collegiate experience for all.

Quinter Awino and Hammerton Sila have been crowned as the  Mr and Miss UoN for the academic year 2023/2024. This prestigious title was bestowed upon them during an elegant event hosted at the renowned Bomas of Kenya on the night of December 1, 2023. Beyond being a conventional pageantry competition, the event served as a dynamic platform for students, particularly Quinter and Hammerton, to showcase not only their physical charm but also their diverse talents and abilities.

The crowning ceremony was a spectacular showcase of talents, with each contestant presenting a unique blend of charisma, intelligence, and ingenuity. The competition, marked by its fierceness, underscored the high standards set by the University of Nairobi in fostering well-rounded individuals.

The newly crowned Mr and Miss UoN are not just symbols of beauty; they are now ambassadors of intellect and character. Their reign is dedicated to community service, reflecting the values that define the University of Nairobi’s commitment to excellence.

The entire event was a glamorous convergence, attracting guests from various segments of society and enthusiastic comrades from within the institution. Distinguished attendees, including influential personalities and esteemed alumni, such as Hon. Babu Owino, Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, and Vice Chancellor Prof. Kiama Gitahi, with the latter being the chief guest, added an air of prestige to the festivities. The diverse audience highlighted the event’s significance as a unifying force that transcended academic boundaries.

The success of the event is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the University of Nairobi Students Association, showcasing their dedication to nurturing a vibrant campus culture. The annual Mr and Miss UON extravaganza, characterized by sophistication and humane values, is poised to become a signature celebration, leaving a lasting legacy within the university community.

In a compelling showcase of intellect and global perspective, the Technical University of Kenya emerged victorious in the Migrants Day Debate hosted at the University of Nairobi Towers. The event, organized in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Kenya Airways, Skyward Express, and Safaricom, brought together talented debaters from various universities.

The debate, held to commemorate International Migrants Day, aimed to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of migrants to our country. Ms. Dimanche Sharon, Chief of Mission at IOM Kenya, emphasized the importance of recognizing migrants’ roles in our increasingly interconnected world. “We are living in a global village, we need everyone’s ideas,” Ms. Dimanche Sharon asserted, highlighting the diversity of perspectives that migrants bring to the table.

Dr. Stephen Jackson, United Nations Resident Coordinator, echoed this sentiment, stating that, “Migrants are not just individuals in transit; they are vibrant agents of change. They are a living embodiment of the multicultural and globalized world. Migrants are drivers of development.”

The debate’s finale tackled the motion, “Migration is the number one pathway for innovative and creative solutions to climate change.” The Technical University of Kenya squared off against the Catholic University of East Africa in a battle of intellect and eloquence. Ultimately, the Technical University of Kenya clinched victory, demonstrating their prowess in articulating the critical role of migration in addressing climate change.

This triumph not only reflects their academic excellence but also underscores the broader significance of acknowledging migrants as catalysts for positive change. As the winners of the migrants debate, they stand as a testament to the power of dialogue and understanding in fostering a more inclusive and globally aware society.

In a momentous event organized by the Office of Career Services, the Career Mentorship Program at Kisumu Campus reached its climax, leaving an indelible impact on over 200 participating students. The program, designed to educate and create awareness about the dynamic job market, featured a panel of experts from diverse professional fields.

The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm as students engaged with seasoned professionals, gaining insights that transcended the conventional realms of academia. The program’s theme emphasized the indispensable role of Social Capital and discipline in navigating the competitive job landscape.

“Be flexible and share ideas with people, learn to adapt other peoples’ ideas,” urged Madam Naomi Ngaboga, Head of the Career Section. Her words resonated as a guiding principle for aspiring job seekers. The program not only imparted knowledge but also instilled a sense of adaptability and collaborative spirit among the students.

Dean of Students Mr Johnson Ireri Kinyua, in his impactful remarks, reinforced the commitment to student development. “We are here to develop you, we are here to equip you with skills necessary in the job market,” he affirmed. The mentorship session became a cornerstone for students, offering a roadmap to success in the ever-evolving professional landscape.

Key takeaways from the event included the crucial role of Social Capital and discipline in achieving success. The emphasis on flexibility and the exchange of ideas underscored the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing job market.

As this year’s overall program came to a stop, students left inspired, armed with not only academic knowledge but also a deeper understanding of the ethical principles required to excel as job seekers. The ripple effect of this mentorship program was expected to resonate through the careers of the University of Nairobi students, fostering a generation of professionals well-prepared for the challenges of the future.

By Arnold Morwani

The University of Nairobi’s Office of Career Services organized a transformative career mentorship session on Friday, November 17, 2023, at the Mombasa Campus. The career mentorship program was attended by over 100 students from diverse faculties, the session aimed to arm  and equip students with the knowledge and awareness essential for navigating the fiercely competitive job market. The session included remarks from the Office of Career Services and a panel discussion involving experiences Peers from different fields

Madam Naomi Nyaboga, Head of Career Services, Explained the pivotal role of the Career Services Office in transforming ordinary students into qualified, market-ready graduates, thereby addressing the unemployment gap not only in Kenya but globally.

Stephen Okiki, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Express Shipping & Log LTD, Shared valuable advice on learning from mistakes, identifying opportunities, and adapting to the digital era. Emphasized the importance of being updated in a rapidly evolving world.

Madam Lucy Gikundi, who a mental health champion and assistant dean faculty of arts and Social Sciences Encouraged students to seek career guidance, utilize available resources, and form meaningful relationships. She advised on avoiding misinformation, facing challenges head-on, and ensuring relationships are reliable.

Dr. Melba Wasuna, External Affairs Manager, Highlighted the commitment to fostering a competitive edge among students, stressing the necessity of continuous improvement and upskilling. Underlined the idea that achievements today pave the way for future ventures.

Key Takeaways from the session included; Emphasis on transformation from student to market-ready graduate, Learning from mistakes and identifying opportunities, Navigating challenges with career guidance and resources and Importance of continuous improvement and upskilling to equally Compete in the competitive job market.

The mentorship session echoed a commitment to empowering students with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing job landscape. The University of Nairobi, through its dedicated mentors and speakers, is paving the way for a generation of skilled, resilient, and informed graduates poised to shape the future. This program serves as a testament to the university’s dedication to nurturing not just academic success, but holistic development for each student.

The Office of Career Services at the University of Nairobi organized a highly impactful mentorship session to equip first-year students in the Faculty of Science and Technology at Chiromo with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in the ever-changing job market. The event, which revolved around the theme of Understanding the Evolving Job Market in the Field of Science and Technology, attracted more than 300 enthusiastic students eager to shape their future careers.

The mentorship session featured a distinguished panel of proud alumni from the University of Nairobi’s Faculty of Science and Technology. These accomplished individuals shared invaluable insights and advice to inspire and mentor the attending students.

Madam Naom Nyaboga, the Head of Career Services underscored the pivotal role the office plays in preparing students to meet the demands of the job market. While the Dean of Students Mr. Johnson Kinyua, encouraged students to aspire to become global citizens, emphasizing the importance of broadening their horizons for infinite opportunities.

Christine Masta, Communication and Advocacy Manager at BASF, on his remarks on the panel, highlighted the significance of cultivating critical skills for the 21st century, including critical thinking, communication, networking, collaboration, and teamwork. She stressed on the ownership of one’s content and message, underscoring effective communication as a critical skill in the modern workplace.

Thomas Ayuaki, Programs Lead at ACWICT, emphasized the importance of technology and innovation. He urged students to acquire additional skills relevant to the 4th Industrial Revolution, such as AI, IoT, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Machine Learning.

Douglas Owino, Director of MyFuture Ed, highlighted that technology is at the core of life. He encouraged students to learn extra digital skills, enabling them to navigate the job market effectively.

This mentorship session left a lasting impact on the first-year students, equipping them with the knowledge and inspiration needed to succeed in the dynamic world of Science and Technology. The event served as a testament to the University of Nairobi’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and innovators in the field.

With a mission to equip first-year students with insights into the ever-evolving job market in the Built Environment field, the University of Nairobi’s Office of Career services recently organized a campus career mentorship program at the Faculty of The Built Environment and Design ADD Space 108.

Naomi Nyaboga, the Section Head in the Career Office highlighted the mandate of the Office and highlighted the 21st century skills that most employers are looking out for and how acquiring extra skills will make the students more marketable upon graduation.

The program featured a lineup of mentors who are distinguished alumni of the faculty, offering invaluable advice to the first-year students. The session with a mission of enabling students to understand the Changing Job Market involved Mentors who emphasized on the importance of staying up-to-date with the rapidly evolving job market within the Built Environment sector. They shared crucial insights on the skills and knowledge students should acquire to enhance their marketability upon graduation.

One of the mentors, Monica Gathuo, a Planning Officer at Women in Real Estate Kenya, shared a powerful message in the student’s social circle stating that “Your networks are your net worth.” She encouraged students to choose their friends wisely right from their first year, as these connections become a vital part of their support system throughout their campus journey.

This mentorship program not only offered first-year students a glimpse into the real-world application of their studies but also highlighted the significance of building a strong professional network from the very beginning of their academic journey. The Office of Careers and Faculty of Built Environment and Design continues to foster a supportive environment for its students, ensuring they are well-prepared for successful careers in their field.

In a bid to shape the business leaders of tomorrow, The Office of Career Services organized an enlightening mentorship program for students at the Faculty of Business and Management Science, Lower Kabete. The event which got an attention of more than 430 first years focused on personal growth, digital readiness, and professional development, equipping students with the essential skills they need to excel in the competitive job market.

The mentorship program featured a distinguished panel of accomplished speakers, all proud alumni of the Faculty of Business and Management Science. Their insights and experiences left a lasting impression on the aspiring students. Here are some key takeaways from the mentorship session.

The session was officially opened by Johnson Kinyua, the dean of Student and Career Services who encouraged students to work on being Future-Ready and Globally Competitive in the evolving job market. Naomi Nyaboga, the Section Head in the Career Office highlighted the mandate of the Office and highlighted the 21st century skills that most employers are looking out for and how acquiring extra skills will make the students more marketable upon graduation.

Mr. Livingston Makori, who is the  founder of the Corporate Career Academy, emphasized on the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in the ever evolving business landscape. “In today’s world, the ability to learn and adapt is as crucial as any other skill.” He said.

Mr. Martin Mwabia is the Education Support Manager at ACCA, He stressed on the significance of professional certifications stating that “Acquiring professional certifications adds significant value to your profile and opens doors to various opportunities.”

Mr. Washington Mageto, CEO of PLAT-DEL, shared his entrepreneurial journey starting from his hard life on campus and at times getting into depression after his sponsorship was terminated and highlighted the role of resilience. “Entrepreneurship demands resilience, you must keep pushing forward, even in the face of challenges.”

Mr. Stephen Muchangi, who is now a successful entrepreneur, inspired students to embrace innovation. He said, “Innovation is the key to staying competitive. Seek out opportunities to innovate and make a difference.”

This mentorship program was not just a source of inspiration but also a roadmap for students to chart their future in the world of business. It reinforced the importance of acquiring soft skills, embracing change, and always being prepared for the demands of the job market.

The UoN Office of Career Services is committed to nurturing the potential of its students, and this event was a shining example of their dedication to elevating the business leaders of tomorrow. Through such initiatives, students at the Faculty of Business and Management Science are well on their way to achieving excellence in their careers.