History was made when a record 2,851 graduands were conferred with degrees and diplomas at a first ever virtual graduation ceremony at the University of Nairobi.
Due to the ongoing Covid-19 Pandemic the 63rd Graduation Ceremony was held at the Great Court with a maximum physical audience of 100 and beamed virtually the UoN website, Facebook and Youtube Channel to thousands of graduands scattered across the country. The event was also televised live on KTN Home and Switch TV’s Facebook page.
54 graduands were conferred with Doctor of Philosophy Degree Awards (PhDs), 370 were conferred with Master Degrees, 15 were awarded Postgraduate Diplomas while 2045 were awarded Bachelor Degrees. 367 graduated with various Diplomas.
While congratulating the graduands, Chancellor, Dr. Vijoo Rattansi said . “This graduation is a historical moment for our university and will be recounted in the annals of history as the first virtual graduation ceremony of the University of Nairobi,”
The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Prof. George Magoha challenged the University to continue working towards attaining the gold standard status and at the same time challenged graduands to be job creators rather than job seekers.
In her speech, the Chair of Council, Prof. Julia Ojiambo made an appeal to the university community to support the interventions by the management to transform the institution.
“Our march towards attainment of a world class university status continues. Undoubtedly, this process will from time to time, require that we change the way we do things hence the clarion call for reform,” she said. “I believe it bears re-emphasizing that reform in our business processes is a necessary intervention that will allow us to rise above the culture of mediocrity, break out of the mould of averageness and cast ourselves into the realm of excellence.”
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Kiama, in his speech reflected on the 5 point reform agenda.
“We have started implementing the reform agenda which is consistent with our vision for a vibrant and sustainable university,” he revealed. “We want a University benefiting society; a University providing highest quality learning and teaching for students; a University leading in research and innovation and a University with high concentration of talent: attracting, growing, supporting and recognizing talent among students and staff. The University needs to be sustainable financially in order to be impactful. Like other public Universities, we are currently experiencing acute budgetary deficits and cash flow challenges due to low capitation.”
The University of Nairobi Alumni Association Chairman, Isaac Awuondo urged graduands to join the association and give back to their alma mater.
“As members of the 63rd Congregation, we will be in touch with you soon on how we can engage with you to become members of UONAA and consider being part of the Chapters and Networks which will enable you actively participate in the activities of your Alma-mater,” he said.
