In a dazzling display of academic excellence and forward-thinking leadership, the University of Nairobi held its 71st graduation ceremony on Friday, September 20, 2024. The event, themed "Empowering the world with adaptive and innovative graduates," saw 4,186 graduands receive their hard-earned degrees, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys. The Faculty of Built Environment and Design shone particularly bright, with 413 graduands receiving their degrees. For the second consecutive year, the faculty produced the class valedictorian John Otieno Odoyo, graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture,
The ceremony was particularly noteworthy as it coincided with the inauguration of the university's new Chancellor, Prof. Patrick V. Verkooijen. In his inaugural address, Chancellor Verkooijen unveiled an ambitious vision for the institution's future, dubbed the "Big 5" initiatives.
"5 Big BOLD INITIATIVES, all connected, to transform UoN, starting today... for the world of today and tomorrow," Chancellor Verkooijen proclaimed. These initiatives include the creation of a "Silicon Savannah" research park, East Africa's first School of AI, a leadership school modeled after Harvard's Kennedy School, a Kenya Green and Digital Jobs Center, and Africa's most advanced health research institute.
The class valedictorian. John Otieno Odoyo delivered a stirring speech that captured the spirit of the day:
"To my fellow graduands, this is our moment. Reflect on the countless hours spent in classrooms, libraries and study groups. Think about the moments of doubt, the perseverance, and the eventual triumphs. I see a crowd full of uniquely talented individuals who are ready to leave their mark on the world."
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Margaret J. Hutchinson emphasized the university's evolving vision: "We once aspired to be 'A world-class university committed to scholarly excellence.' In 2023, we embraced a new vision —to be 'A globally competitive university transforming society.' As the Class of 2024, you have witnessed and experienced both of these visions in action. You are the embodiment of that transformation."
The ceremony also featured addresses from distinguished guests, including Prof. Amukowa Anangwe, Chairper of Council, and Mr. Julius Migos Ogamba, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Education. Mr. Ogamba highlighted the government's commitment to fostering innovation in education:
"The Government is keen to champion policies that foster innovation, equity and inclusion in our education system. Our education system has to remain relevant in this rapidly evolving global landscape."
As the newly minted graduates prepare to embark on their next chapters, the University of Nairobi stands poised at the cusp of an exciting transformation. With its focus on innovation, leadership, and societal impact, the institution is set to play a pivotal role in shaping Kenya's future and beyond.
To the Class of 2024: May your journeys be as bold and innovative as the education that has prepared you for them. The world awaits your unique contributions, and if Chancellor Verkooijen's vision comes to fruition, the University of Nairobi will be here to support you every step of the way.
As the Chancellor aptly put it: "Graduates, You leave us today. I may not have any advice for you, but I do have one appeal: Come back." With the exciting developments on the horizon, it's an invitation that may prove hard to resist.
Watch the Ceremony Here: <-block _ngcontent-ng-c827941149="" class="ng-star-inserted">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuosLYFI17g
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