The Faculty of Built Environment and Design stood out at the University of Nairobi’s 73rd Graduation Ceremony on Friday, September 19, 2025, with 407 students receiving their diplomas and degrees. The 407 awards from the faculty included 3 Diplomas, 402 Bachelor’s degrees, 35 Master’s, and 3 Doctor of Philosophy awards. Among the undergraduate degrees were 66 in Architectural Studies, 63 in Architecture, 50 in Quantity Surveying, and 47 in Planning.
The day was made even more special as the faculty once again produced the valedictorian, Joy Muthoni Mwaniki, who graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture. Joy Mwaniki, brought pride to the faculty and the University. She reflected on the challenges and sacrifices that came with her journey, offering a candid glimpse into student life. “They say architecture students do not sleep, they just take naps in strange places. And I can confirm. This degree was powered by late-night studio struggles, rivers of coffee, and the dangerous optimism that we could finish a semester-long project in one night,” she said to laughter from the audience. Joy closed her address with encouragement to her peers: “Carry forward the University of Nairobi spirit of service, creativity, and courage into every space you step into.”
In total, the University of Nairobi conferred 3,836 degrees and diplomas during the ceremony, held under the theme “Empowering Futures for an Innovative and Technologically Driven World.” The event was presided over by Chancellor Prof. Patrick V. Verkooijen and attended by government officials, the University Council, Senate members, staff, alumni, and families.
Chancellor Verkooijen reminded graduates that their role was to be active players in the country’s transformation. “Kenya’s youth cannot afford to stand at the margins of opportunity. You must be at the centre of it, leading from the inside, not watching from the outside,” he said.
Council Chair Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha congratulated the Class of 2025 and pledged to guide the institution with integrity and foresight. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson commended graduates for their resilience. “Each one of you, as you stand with your loved ones during your graduation, has a story to tell. Your presence here today is a testament to growth and triumph among challenges,” she said.
Principal Secretary for Higher Education, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, said education must go beyond academics. “We educate not only to inform but to transform, not only to graduate but to elevate,” she told the gathering.
Valedictorian Joy Mwaniki summed up the day with a mix of humour and reflection. “They say architecture students do not sleep, they just take naps in strange places. I can confirm. But today we all share the same truth. This journey was not easy, but it was worth it.”
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