University sets out to raise Sh10b to boost research

The University of Nairobi (UoN) is planning to raise Sh10 billion to boost its research and scholarships kitty.

UoN Vice Chancellor Peter Mbithi said the initiative, which is part of the university's rapid transformation agenda, will entail major fundraising drives to boost the institution's capacity to meet its objectives.

He said the three-step programme, expected to take three years, will start with highlighting the university's research breakthroughs and attracting many brand ambassadors.

"Research is at the core of this institution's programmes and we must raise enough money for the same," he said.

The VC spoke Thursday in his office when Standard Group Chief Executive Officer Sam Shollei visited him.

Present were William Ogara, UoN Director, Centre for Internal Programmes and Links, School of Journalism Director Wambui Kiai and UoN Enterprise and Services Managing Director John Kenduiwo. Standard Group's Commercial Director Irene Kimani was also present.

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Alumni base

Mbithi said the university has done "good and progressive researches", many of which are not known by Kenyans. The university's research fund currently stands at Sh4 billion.

He said the endowment fund shall be raised by 2017.

"We hope to tap into our broad alumni base which currently stands at 174,000. Some of these persons are well placed in the society and would wish to give back to the university," he said.

Mr Shollei said the Standard Group will support the university's efforts. "We have pledged to support you as you seek to transform the society by being the best university in Africa," he said.

Prof Mbithi said the university had developed an internal research funding strategy that will foster studies intended to solve societal problems.

Shollei said the Standard Group will partner with the School of Journalism on a raft of exchange programmes to develop the capacity of staff and foster UoN students' practical learning.

He urged the university to make available its professionals to comment on various topical issues on the Group's media platforms.