11th Thursday December 2025

The University of Nairobi held its 74th Graduation Ceremony at the Chancellor’s Court under the theme “Empowering Futures for an Innovative and Technologically Driven World.” A total of 4,504 graduands were celebrated, including 48 PhDs, 905 Master’s Degrees, 3,416 Bachelor’s Degrees, 16 Postgraduate Diplomas, 14 Fellowships, and 98 Diplomas.

The event brought together the Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Verkooijen, Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba, the University Council, Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson, faculty members, families, and friends.

The Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences stood out with the highest number of graduands, totaling 1,759 students. Programmes such as Sociology, Political Science, Psychology, Journalism, Linguistics, Literature, Philosophy, Anthropology, and Development Studies were well represented. This highlights the Faculty’s vital role in shaping thinkers, leaders, and innovators who contribute significantly to Kenya’s society, culture, governance, and media.

During his valedictory address, Dr Christopher Ombewa, a Bachelor of Science in Human Anatomy graduate, delivered an inspiring message to the audience. He said:
“Allow me to honor the presence of our families, our mentors, and every brave soul seated here today – The Class of 2025. My name is Christopher Ombewa Krehle, a proud Bachelor of Science in Human Anatomy graduate. Today, I am privileged to speak not only for anatomists, but for every dreamer, fighter and winner gathered here. Fellow graduands, we stand shaped by resilience – a character carved in fire. We rose when the fees tried to drown us, when our families gave the last of the little that they had. We rose when doubt pressed hard, when systems stalled, even when odds refused to shift. We rose together.”

Representing the University of Nairobi Alumni Association, Prof. Cleopha Mailu, on behalf of the Chairperson of UNAA, congratulated the graduands and reflected on their achievement. He said:“I am delighted to be associated with the University of Nairobi during this memorable event of the 74th Graduation Ceremony. Today is a proud and historic moment whereby the university takes pride in conferring and awarding various degrees and diplomas to over 4,000 deserving students. It marks the culmination of years of sacrifice, discipline, resilience, long nights, and unwavering belief in your dreams. On behalf of the University of Nairobi Alumni Association, I extend heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Welcome to the distinguished community of over 260,000 University of Nairobi alumni who continue to shape various sectors of the economy both locally and globally.”

Prof. Chacha Nyaigoti-Chacha, Chairperson of the University Council, emphasized the significance of the day and the graduands’ dedication. He stated:
“We are gathered here for a special purpose: to celebrate the 74th Graduation Ceremony of the University of Nairobi. On behalf of the Council, I extend our warmest congratulations to the Class of 2025. Your presence here today is a testament to hard work, discipline and resilience.”

During her remarks, Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson reflected on the progress of the University and the potential of the graduands. She noted:
“Mr. Chancellor, Sir, the graduands before you have the requisite qualifications and right attitude to contribute to the transformation of this country. It is therefore fitting that we reflect on how far our University has come — on the strides we have made together, not just in individual lives, but in the institutional journey of UoN as a Centre of excellence, innovation, and societal impact.”

Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba spoke about the sacrifices that have led to this moment of achievement. He said:
“The joyful tears in your eyes today represent the torturous but fulfilling journey in the academic corridors over the years. Today, you are not just receiving a degree; you are also receiving the full weight of the sacrifices made on your behalf: the early mornings of your parents, the deferred dreams of your siblings, and the belief of a Nation that invested in you.”

Finally, Chancellor Prof. Patrick Verkooijen delivered the keynote address, encouraging the Class of 2025 to aim high and lead with purpose. He urged them to:“Dream big. Act fast. Lead with purpose.”Drawing on his experiences at Stanford University and Tsinghua University, he shared examples of young innovators transforming ideas into global impact, from AI-enabled education to technology delivering healthcare to underserved communities.

The ceremony ended on a celebratory note, with graduands, families, and guests inspired to step confidently into the future. The Class of 2025 leaves ready to make a positive impact, reflecting the University of Nairobi’s commitment to nurturing leaders and innovators. You can access the full graduation booklet below.

Download 74th University of Nairobi Graduation Booklet

Watch the UoN 74th Graduation Ceremony