The University of Nairobi on Friday, May 8, 2026, hosted a colorful and inspiring Student Recognition Ceremony to celebrate excellence, resilience, leadership, innovation, and talent among students across the university. The event brought together university leaders, faculty members, donors, partners, and students in a strong affirmation of the institution’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded graduates equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.

At the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, 76 students were honored for their exceptional achievements in both academic and co-curricular activities. The awards recognized students who have distinguished themselves through dedication, leadership, creativity, service, and active participation within and beyond the university community. The awards were presented under various categories including Academic Award, Talent Award, Corporate Social Responsibility Award, Leadership Award, Volunteerism Award, Extra-Curricular Activities Award, and Sports and Games Award.

Speaking on behalf of partners, Joshua Maina from BOC Kenya Limited (BOC Gases), congratulated the award-winning students for their dedication and sacrifice in pursuit of excellence. He noted that BOC sponsors awards for the best first-year postgraduate student in Anesthesiology, the best second-year postgraduate student in Master of Medicine, and the best final-year student in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering.

Joy Muthoni Mwaniki, Bachelor of Architecture graduate and valedictorian of the Class of 2025, applauded the award recipients for choosing persistence and excellence despite the challenges they encountered along their academic journey. She encouraged students to continue believing in themselves and remain committed to their goals.

In his remarks, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Affairs Prof. Gitau noted, “As a university, moments like this reaffirm our purpose; to cultivate well-rounded individuals who will go on to make meaningful contributions to society. The diversity of talents we celebrate today gives us confidence that the future is bright in hard work and creative hands.

To our students: as you celebrate this milestone, remember that this recognition is not a destination, but a stepping stone. Continue to explore, to challenge yourselves, and to use your gifts to make a difference.”

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson also commended the students and acknowledged the support received from partners and donors. She noted, “I am especially delighted to note that a total of 736 students are being recognized and awarded today. We are proud to have 108 University Prize donors across our ten faculties, contributing a total of Ksh. 2,654,500 in cash prizes. This remarkable show of generosity speaks to the confidence our partners and stakeholders have in our students and in the future we are building together.

To all our donors, we say thank you for investing in our talents, in the dreams and aspirations of our young people.”

The ceremony not only celebrated academic excellence but also recognized the importance of leadership, innovation, talent, sportsmanship, and community service in shaping responsible and impactful graduates. The event served as an inspiration to students to continue striving for excellence and using their abilities and talents to positively transform society.