Outstanding staff members were appreciated and awarded in various categories, boosting their morale and motivation during the Staff Recognition and Awards for the FY 2023/2024 at the UoN Towers. The event included a performance evaluation report for the 2023/2024 financial year, covering 10 faculties, 63 teaching departments, and 13 central units/directorates. The focus was on aligning strategic goals, work plans, and budgets to enhance accountability and service delivery.

In recognition of staff excellence, the Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Verkooijen, announced the introduction of a new award next year: The Chancellor's Award for Transformation. This accolade will highlight key contributions to the institution's transformation process. However, the Chancellor also expressed concern over the university’s drop from Kenya’s top spot and its decline in global rankings. He emphasized that reversing this trend lies in the hands of both academic and non-academic staff.

"A strong institution is built on a motivated workforce. We acknowledge that staff morale has been affected by issues such as delays in promotions, career progression, and pension concerns. The Council has taken concrete steps to address these challenges," assured Prof. Amukowa Anangwe, the Chair of the University Council.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, encouraged those who did not receive awards to view it as an opportunity for growth. "Today, we are here not just to distribute awards but to acknowledge the spirit of dedication, collaboration, and excellence that defines the University of Nairobi. Our collective efforts have propelled us forward despite challenges and positioned us as a leading institution of higher learning," she remarked.

Performance Evaluation Results for 2023/2024

Under the Community Service category, the top-performing faculties and departments were:

1. Kili Rover Scouts Camp – 1st place for exemplary community service
2. Faculty of Engineering – 2nd place
3. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) – 3rd place

Prof. Jack Odhiambo, filled with excitement, received the trophy and certificate on behalf of the faculty.

While these awards covered all administrative units and faculties, there is a need for the institution to explore deeper recognition strategies, particularly for individuals making outstanding contributions within specific departments—especially in faculties with multiple departments, such as the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Expanding the award categories will ensure that more staff members are recognized and motivated to excel.

The University of Nairobi remains committed to its core mandate of education and research while striving to maintain world-class scholarly excellence. Recognizing and awarding outstanding staff members remains a key strategy in fostering motivation and continuous improvement across the institution.