University of Nairobi mobilises Alumni Support for Institutional Transformation
The University of Nairobi on Friday, 30 October 2026, hosted an alumni breakfast meeting, bringing together distinguished graduates from the Faculties of Law and Arts and Social Sciences, University management, faculty leadership and student representatives. Notable alumni included Hon. Gitobu Imanyara, Prof. P. L. O. Lumumba and Dr. Barack Muluka.
The meeting sought to strengthen alumni engagement and mobilise support for the University's institutional transformation, with a particular focus on the Adopt-a-Hostel Campaign and opportunities for graduates to contribute towards improving infrastructure, student welfare and the overall learning environment.
In his address, Vice-Chancellor Eng. Prof. Ayub Gitau urged alumni to translate their goodwill into tangible contributions, emphasising the need for the University to adapt to global changes through modern infrastructure, enhanced security, improved student welfare and sustained academic excellence. The University also showcased ongoing hostel renovation projects supported through alumni contributions.
Hon. Gitobu Imanyara, an alumnus of the Faculty of Law, highlighted practical opportunities for alumni engagement through mentorship, scholarships and international exposure. Drawing on his publishing experience through the Nairobi Law Monthly and Platform for Law, Society and Justice, he shared how partnerships with law students had created opportunities for professional development and international academic exposure. He also advocated for the revival of public lectures, intellectual exchange and intergenerational dialogue, alongside annual scholarships established by alumni cohorts.
Distinguished alumnus Prof. P. L. O. Lumumba called for a structured approach to resource mobilisation, proposing the development of Bills of Quantities for priority infrastructure projects, the establishment of an endowment fund and stronger alumni giving. He illustrated the potential of collective giving, noting that contributions of KES 50,000 from 50,000 alumni could raise KES 2.5 billion.
Dr. Barack Muluka called for a comprehensive renewal of the University that goes beyond rehabilitating ageing infrastructure to restoring its intellectual vibrancy and strengthening its position as a leading centre of knowledge production in Africa. He described a university as an assembly of intellectuals committed to generating knowledge, advancing scholarship and contributing to society. He emphasised that the University's transformation is a shared responsibility requiring the active participation of alumni, academics, students and institutional partners.
The meeting identified key priorities, including expanding alumni registration, mobilising support for scholarships, research chairs and infrastructure, and developing a financial management framework to guide alumni contributions. Deans were tasked with organising faculty-based homecoming ceremonies in November 2026 to reconnect graduates with their faculties and identify priority projects for support.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to transform alumni goodwill into sustainable partnerships, resource mobilisation and meaningful institutional impact.
