Pushing the "UoNBig5" Initiatives through student led action
Following the official unveiling of the “Big 5” Initiatives by Chancellor Professor Patrick V. Verkooijen, the university’s leadership, pillar heads, and key stakeholders gathered at the UON Student Leaders Forum at the university main campus to discuss the roadmap for realizing these groundbreaking projects. The forum, hosted by Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Hutchinson and former Cabinet Secretary Professor Margaret Kobia, focused on how the university plans to execute the “Big 5” projects in collaboration with academic, industry, governmental, and non-governmental partners through student initiative drives.
In her opening remarks, Professor Hutchinson noted that the Big 5 initiatives aim not only to transform the university but also to impact society. By concentrating on key areas under the initiatives green jobs, AI, leadership, and health research, she expressed optimism that the initiatives are poised to equip students and faculty to drive meaningful change in Kenya and across Africa. “From innovation in technology to climate action and leadership training, we are preparing our students to drive positive change,” said Professor Hutchinson.
The pillar heads tasked with spearheading these initiatives agreed on the importance of developing academic programs aligned with the objectives of the “Big 5.” This will include introducing specialized short courses, certificates, and master’s programs targeting critical areas such as entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, leadership, and health research. “We are tailoring courses to ensure our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to take leadership in these fields,” said Professor Ombongi.
UON Innovation Park plans to establish training programs in entrepreneurship, venture development, and technological innovation. The Kenya Green Jobs Center aims to introduce courses in climate science, green energy, and sustainable business practices. The Nairobi School of AI, situated at Chiromo campus, envisions an AI master’s program along with research initiatives aimed at solving local African challenges. The Africa Leadership Institutewill offer leadership training modules designed in collaboration with global institutions. The Nairobi Advanced Health Research Program will focus on health research courses related to vaccine development and biotechnology.
To ensure the successful implementation of the “Big 5,” the university is fostering partnerships with local and international organizations, universities, and corporations. According to Professor Kinoti, discussions have already begun with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and other notable global institutions to collaborate on joint research projects, student exchange programs, and funding opportunities. These partnerships will provide both financial backing and necessary expertise to advance the initiatives. Furthermore, the Nairobi School of AI will work with leading global AI research centers to localize AI solutions for Africa. The Kenya Green Jobs Center will partner with companies in the renewable energy and sustainability sectors to provide internships and job opportunities for students. The UON Innovation Park is expected to attract investment from tech giants and venture capital firms looking to support African entrepreneurs.
Additionally, the establishment of an Innovation Fund tied to the UON Innovation Park will provide seed funding for student and faculty-led startups, further contributing to Nairobi’s emergence as the “Silicon Savannah.” Professor Kobia emphasized the importance of these partnerships, stating, “Collaborating with world-class institutions is key to ensuring that the University of Nairobi remains a leader in education and research, not only in Kenya but across the continent.”
The University of Nairobi’s commitment to executing the “Big 5” initiatives, backed by strong partnerships and funding plans, places it at the forefront of Africa’s educational and research transformation.
