On Thursday, 26th 2026, the University of Nairobi held its Staff Recognition Awards and Performance Contract (PC) Signing Ceremony for the 2025/2026 cycle at the historic Taifa Hall. The annual event celebrates excellence in performance, innovation, and service delivery across all 10 faculties of the University.

The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) recorded outstanding success during the ceremony. The Department of Economics and Development Studies emerged as the Overall Best Unit with an Excellent composite score of 2.1472 — clear evidence that performance targets were met and results effectively delivered.

Recognition also went to the department’s outstanding non-teaching staff and the Associate Dean’s Office, all of whom were rated Exemplary (100%). This achievement affirms that excellence remains constant across all cadres within FASS.

In the individual categories, Dr. Michael Ndwiga was ranked 1st in Innovation and Creativity (Individual) for PeekGrow Foliar Fertilizer, a 100% organic, cost-reducing agricultural innovation that reflects impactful, solution-oriented research. Prof. Antony Wambungu was ranked first and awarded Lecturer of the Year with a perfect 100% score — a true mark of excellence in teaching and academic impact.

The ceremony featured remarks from senior University leadership, including Prof. Maalu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance, Planning and Development); Prof. Chacha Nyaigoti Chacha, Chair of Council; and Prof. Ayub Gitau, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs). The Vice-Chancellor, who could not attend, sent a special message delivered by Prof. Mande, expressing appreciation for the dedication, innovation, and outstanding performance of staff and departments across the entire University of Nairobi, and congratulating them for delivering excellence at every level.