University of Nairobi Hosts Midterm Review of Landmark ESC Project

The University of Nairobi hosted the midterm review meeting of the landmark Engineering and Science Complex (ESC) project on December 1, 2025, one of Kenya’s most ambitious higher education investments aimed at transforming STEM training, research and innovation for decades to come.

The high-level meeting brought together senior leadership from the government, University of Nairobi, AFD - French Development Agency, and pillar teams driving the ESC project. Among those in attendance were Prof. Margaret Hutchinson, Vice Chancellor; Dr Beatrice Inyangala, Principal Secretary for Higher Education; Ms. Anne-Gael Chapuis, AFD Country Director; Prof. Leonida Kerubo, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research Innovation and Enterprise and Dean Faculty of Science and Technology; Prof. Siphila Mumenya, Dean, Faculty of Engineering; National Treasury representative, Mr. Collins Aseka and members of the six ESC pillars—Building, Curriculum, Research, Innovation, Internationalisation, and Industry-Academia.

The midterm review opened with remarks that underscored both the strategic importance and national relevance of the project.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Hutchinson, described the ESC as “a bold, transformative undertaking that will shape Kenya’s scientific competitiveness.” She highlighted key milestones; completion of major technical studies, progress in the international architectural competition and advancement of Research and Innovation Programs. She also emphasised that the academic and research components of ESC are already taking shape even before groundbreaking, demonstrating the University’s readiness to drive Kenya’s next wave of innovation.

In a powerful address, PS Dr. Beatrice Inyangala reaffirmed government support, calling the ESC “a generational investment. “This is a generational investment and a national blueprint for the future of Kenyan higher education,” she said. She noted that the project responds directly to Kenya’s economic transformation agenda by preparing engineers, scientists, innovators and technical leaders who will drive progress in climate adaptation, manufacturing, digital technologies, and health innovation. The PS also commended UoN for setting a new benchmark for public universities. “I commended the University of Nairobi for setting a new benchmark for public universities, globally engaged, research-driven and industry-responsive,” she said. She also expressed hope that this is the new path that will be embraced and followed by all other Kenyan universities.

After the morning interactive session with pillar members, the two committees central to ESC implementation convened for strategic reflection. The Steering Committee, chaired by the Vice Chancellor and including the PS State Department for Higher Education, Ministry of Education, the French Ambassador and AFD Country Director, reviewed the project’s progress, assessed milestones achieved and outlined critical next steps toward the landmark groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for May 2026. This historic event is expected to be attended by H.E. Dr William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, and H.E. Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, highlighting the ESC’s national and international significance.

Similarly, the ESC project Committee, chaired by Prof. Ayub N. Gitau (Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs) and composed of Deans of the Faculties of Engineering and Science and Technology, the Director of University Advancement, and key technical staff, conducted a detailed review of implementation progress. Both committees’ sessions fostered joint reflection and strengthened alignment on the actions needed to advance the project efficiently.

The midterm review concluded with a shared sense of determination, reaffirming the ESC as a flagship initiative that will shape Kenya’s scientific, technological, and innovation landscape for generations to come.