The Faculty of Built Environment and Design made a remarkable impact at the annual Staff Recognition and Awards Ceremony, held on Monday, February 10, 2025. The event, which assessed ten faculties, 63 teaching departments, and 13 central units, honored outstanding contributions in academia, research, and service delivery.
The Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Verkooijen, emphasized the importance of staff excellence in the university’s overall performance. “And today, we are recognizing those of you leading the charge in staff excellence. Let us celebrate your success today, and your service as staff,” he stated. He also introduced an ambitious 24-month reform agenda to elevate the University of Nairobi to the top of Africa’s academic rankings.
The Faculty of Built Environment and Design shone brightly in the Creativity and Innovation category, with Prof. Lilac Osanjo securing second place for her groundbreaking work in sustainable sanitation solutions. Her project, a ceramic toilet made from locally sourced clay soil, has received a patent application for both the manufacturing process and the final product. This innovation is set to become a flagship project at the Chandaria Center, to be housed at the ADD Building. The project was awarded KES 20 million in commercialization funding for the FY 2023/2024, underscoring its potential for widespread impact. The State Department of Public Works has partnered with the university on this initiative, showcasing it across various counties in Kenya.
The awards also celebrated individual excellence within the Faculty, recognizing faculty members for their dedication to research, teaching, and service. The honorees included:
- Dr. Fridah W. Mugo (Urban and Regional Planning)
- Prof. Robert W. Rukwaro (Architecture)
- Ms. Elizabeth Kanini Wamuchiru (Urban and Regional Planning)
- Dr. Rose M. Musyoka (Urban and Regional Planning)
- Dr. Dennis Muthama Mbugua (Real Estate, Construction Management, and Quantity Surveying)
- Mr. Francis K. Kivindu (Real Estate, Construction Management, and Quantity Surveying)
- Mr. Yasir Brek Karama (Architecture)
- Mr. Patrick Rono Chesengeny (Arts and Design)
- Mr. Joseph Muasya Nzue (Architecture)
- Mrs. Sheila Gasheri Ndung'u (Dean’s Office, Faculty of Built Environment and Design)
- Miss Irene Nyokabi Gathuku (Urban and Regional Planning)
- Ms. Christine June Owino (Architecture)
- Ms. Faith Wambui Kibe (Architecture)
- Mr. Evans Njoroge (Arts and Design)
During the ceremony, Prof. Amukowa Anangwe, Chair of the University Council, addressed pressing concerns regarding declining student enrollment and research output. “The Council has noted with concern that the university’s productivity is on a downward trend. Performance management tools like Performance Contracts are critical in enhancing productivity, improving our ranking, and restoring our reputation,” he stated.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Margaret Jesang reinforced the importance of recognizing staff contributions. “This event holds a special place in our university’s calendar, offering us an opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of our staff—the backbone of our Institution's success,” she noted.
As the University of Nairobi embarks on an ambitious reform journey, the Faculty of Built Environment and Design continues to position itself as a leader in innovation, creativity, and academic excellence. With groundbreaking research and practical solutions like Prof. Osanjo’s ceramic toilet project, the faculty is making significant strides toward addressing real-world challenges.
The Staff Recognition and Awards Ceremony was not just a moment of celebration but a reaffirmation of the university’s commitment to excellence. With its faculty members leading the way in cutting-edge research and impactful innovations, FBED remains a vital pillar in the university’s mission to shape a better future for Kenya and beyond.
Click here to watch the Award Ceremony:
- Log in to post comments
