UoN Students to Participate in Silverstone Circuit, UK
On Sunday, 12th July, 2026, Cindy Wairimu and Amy Wangui, two Faculty of Engineering students, will take off for a historical journey. They will be travelling to Northampton, UK, to honour an invitation by the Silverstone UK to participate in presentation of a concept paper.
This landmark event is a culmination of a year-long process by a team of 20 students, under the University of Nairobi Motorsport who expressed interest through application and presentation of a concept paper for a University of Nairobi Motorsport.
The Dean, Prof. Siphila Mumenya, speaking during the flag off meeting, on Friday afternoon, 10th July, 2026, congratulated the team for the skills gained since conceptualization of the idea, the process of application, the patience and the team’s discipline and effort to walk the journey this far. She emphasized, ‘This is now where the world is moving to, closely collaborating with the industry, innovating around real-world solutions.’ The Dean assured them that they have done well and as they travel to the UK, they should not be intimidated, but to go with confidence.’
Prof. Mumenya excitedly remarked that this week she has overseen three recognitions that have involved outstanding Faculty of Engineering students.
Those sentiments were echoed by the Faculty Advisor of the team, Dr. Kenneth Njoroge who was elated, citing that indeed what started as a thought and a desire, has finally culminated in seeing a representation of the University of Nairobi to showcase their concept. He congratulated the team and pledged his support throughout the journey.
Dr. Njoroge, called on industry partners to join and support this amazing initiative because, there will soon be a prototype. He also noted that it has not been easy to raise funds, otherwise the 20 student-team would be headed to the UK.
The team lead, Cindy Wairimu, expressed gratitude that the team has gotten this far in the competition, she also noted that in the past one year, they have even improved in their academics because of the team work. She noted, ‘We understand that we are not only going to represent the team but we will be representing a World Class University. The presentation of a concept paper at the Silverstone UK is a grand opportunity.’
Silverstone holds a special place in motorsport history as the location of the very first Formula 1 World Championship race on May 13, 1950. Owned by the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), the circuit has evolved from a windswept, dormant WWII airfield into a world-class FIA Grade 1 facility.
The University Management wishes the students all the best.
