University of Nairobi Champions Women in Engineering at Summit 3.0

The University of Nairobi proudly hosted the third edition of the Women in Engineering Students Summit on Friday, March 7, 2025. The two-day summit, held at the University’s Chandaria Auditorium, was a timely event organized by the Engineering Students Association (ESA) in the lead-up to International Women’s Day.

The summit served as a vital platform, bringing together aspiring young women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Its primary aim was to highlight and celebrate the significant and invaluable contributions that women have made and continue to make within the STEM sector.  

Attendees had the distinct opportunity to engage with prominent women leaders and fellow students from diverse fields. Discussions during the summit centered on the crucial role of women in STEM, the substantial contributions they have made, and the progressive steps women have taken to shape the future of engineering. Furthermore, the summit provided a space to address the challenges and barriers that women in STEM often encounter. Participants collaboratively explored innovative strategies to foster a more inclusive and diverse STEM community.  

Speaking at the event, Prof. Francis Mulaa, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research Innovation and Enterprise, conveyed the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson’s, strong message of encouragement to the women present. He urged them to embrace change, to support each other’s growth, and to innovate boldly. “Let us rise together. Let us innovate without fear,” he stated. “Let us break barriers, challenge norms, and drive the wave of change. The future of engineering is inclusive, diverse, and stronger with women leading the way.”  

Prof. Mulaa also shared exciting news about the University’s commitment to enhancing the learning environment within the Faculty of Engineering. He announced plans to transform the American Wing into a dynamic and inspiring space, specifically designed to support women in STEM. With funding already secured, the university is set to modernize its engineering facilities, with the development of a world-class engineering and science complex anticipated to commence next year.  

The importance of national-level support for women in STEM was underscored by Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education and Research, Ministry of Education. Represented by Caroline Owade, the Principal Secretary emphasized the need for focused and strategic actions to dismantle the obstacles that women face in STEM fields. “We must create an environment where female engineers are not just participants but key decision-makers, driving solutions for global challenges,” her message conveyed.  

Prof. Siphila Mumenya, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, also delivered an inspiring address to the young women. She passionately encouraged them to step forward and confidently assume their rightful place in society, actively contributing to change and making history. “Women are equally capable of transforming society,” she affirmed, reminding the students of their immense potential to make significant impacts .  

Adding a unique perspective to the summit was Irene Ng’endo, a distinguished Software Engineer and the reigning Miss Universe Kenya 2024. She inspired the attendees to focus on personal growth, discover their inherent strengths, and diligently work towards refining their talents and passions. She encouraged them to define their achievements based on their own values, leaving them with the powerful message: “Find your true measure of success.”  

The Women in Engineering Students Summit 3.0 not only celebrated the remarkable contributions of women to the STEM fields but also reaffirmed the University of Nairobi’s unwavering commitment to fostering positive change and actively supporting initiatives that promote growth and development within society.