- He stated that the transformative impact of the initiatives should inspire other universities to strive for academic excellence and make a greater contribution to shared prosperity for all Kenyans.
- He encouraged the University leadership to cultivate skills that will empower the students to lead with integrity and a sense of purpose.
Image: PCS
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has launched the "Big 5" transformational initiatives for the University of Nairobi.
Speaking during the UoN Chancellor's dinner and launch of the initiatives, Mudavadi said the plan will help impact the students with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed to lead with integrity, vision and impact.
The "Big 5" includes the UoN Innovation Park which is set to establish Nairobi as the "Silicon Savannah" for entrepreneurship and technological innovation, supported by a new innovation fund.
The Kenya Green Jobs Center aims at equipping the youth to lead the green transition through new curricula developed in partnership with businesses and comprehensive climate and sustainability courses offered to all 40,000 students.
The Nairobi School of AI will help develop top-tier AI talent and create localised AI solutions for Africa, including East Africa’s first AI master’s degree.
The Africa Leadership Institute is for training the next generation of East African leaders in the public sector and beyond, in partnership with leading global institutions.
Lastly, the Nairobi Advanced Health Research Programme aims to scale the University’s lab and research capabilities in support of vaccine development, clinical trials, and biotech.
Noting that at the heart of Africa's development is leadership, Mudavadi expressed confidence that the University is an institution that will continue to contribute to the next generation of African leaders.
"Our students need to be equipped with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed to lead with integrity, vision and impact. With the "Big 5" Initiatives, this institution will be well placed to nurture ethical leadership and empower individuals to drive positive change in their communities and beyond," he said.
He stated that the transformative impact of the initiatives should inspire other universities to strive for academic excellence and make a greater contribution to shared prosperity for all Kenyans.
He encouraged the University leadership to cultivate skills that will empower the students to lead with integrity and a sense of purpose.
The Prime CS noted that all academic institutions must be breeding grounds for individuals who are not only academically proficient but also equipped to navigate the complexities of our rapidly evolving world.
Mudavadi expressed hope that Chancellor Patrick Verkooijen's bold new initiatives will inspire and empower the entire university community to reach new heights of achievement, setting a new standard of excellence that will be recognised and celebrated on the global stage.
"In particular, I challenge the University of Nairobi to mould champions of our national interests and global ambassadors who will ensure that Kenya’s voice is strong and influential in the international arena," he said.
Mudavadi urged the education ministry and leadership of UoN to forge a legacy of innovation and unwavering dedication to the national interest.
"Let us ensure that the University of Nairobi not only shines as a beacon of knowledge and excellence but, also stands as a testament to our collective resolve to uplift our nation," the Prime CS added.