A publication of the Office the Vice-Chancellor DECEMBER 2015 A publication of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor September - December 2016

Inside:

Student Innovator Shortlisted for Africa Prize INSIDE: n CHANCELLOR MAKES A RARE n GEO-ICT to BE USED IN TU-K gets new Thumbs up ADDRESSTU-K's TO FirstFRESHERS RememberingFIGHTING crimeTU-K Football

Council Chair for TU-K n TU-KFull TOPS Professors in the 2016 Prof.n George space sc ienceteam dons wins Join 2015 Engineering KenyAppointeda Music Festivals EshiwaniTU-K Super Eight Programmesn Technology Innovation n students SHTournamentINE at ‘Blaze’ at TU-K SAMSUNG academy CONTENTS

7 CHINESe DIPLOMATS VISIT TU-K Education and training

for the real world 16 Student Innovator Shortlisted for Africa Enrol at The Technical University of Kenya Prize and take advantage of our practical, multi-disciplinary approach to teaching and learning

• WELCOME | Karibu | Bienvenue | Welkom | Willkommen | Benvenuto • ALSO INSIDE

Students Urged To Think Innovation...... 5

Chancellor In Rare Address To Freshers...... 6 students SHINE at SAMSUNG academy 26 Vc Tips On Academic Freedom...... 7 FACULTY OF ENGINEERING FACULTY OF APPLIED SCIENCES FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY AND TECHNOLOGY AND TECHNOLOGY Tu-K Launches Student Scholarship...... 10

1. School of Architecture and the Built 1. School of Biological and Life Sciences 1. School of Business and Management Geo-Ict To Be Used In Fighting Crime ...... 13 Environment Studies 2. School of Computing and Information Students Elect New Leaders...... 14 2. School of Electrical and Electronic Technologies 2. School of Creative Arts and Engineering Technologies 3. School of Health Sciences and Ecological Risk Assessment Workshop Held...... 17 3. School of Infrastructure and Resource Technology 3. School of Hospitality and Tourism Engineering Studies Students Land Jobs Even Before Graduating...... 18 4. School of Mathematics and Actuarial 4. School of Mechanical and Process Science 4. School of Information and Engineering Communication Studies Tu-K Tops In The 2016 Kenya Music Festivals...... 21 5. School of Physical Sciences and 5. School of Surveying and Geospatial Technology 5. School of Social and Development World Space Week Marked ...... 22 Sciences Studies 6. Centre for Science and Technology 6. Centre for Engineering Innovation and Studies 6. Centre for Creative and Cultural Space Science Dons Hired ...... 24 Production Industries Joyce Nyaruai Tops In Baku...... 36

Tu-K fc Win Sportpesa Super Eight League ...... 38 39 Hockey Team Smashes Daystar Varsity

December 2016 3 INNOVATION Exhibition

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR Students Urged To

s we near the end of 2016, we have every reason to be happy and grateful to the Almighty God. This year has been momentous for Think InnovatION the TU-K community in many ways. Our students have continued to excel in co-curricular activities. Somehow it has become a Aroutine for them to win so many trophies in ball games, drama and athletics. From coming tops at the Samsung Academy, Joyce Nyaruai’s chess exploits locally and in Baku, Azerbaijan where she respresented Kenya to our own TU-K FC and Hockey team winning major trophies, we have confirmed to all and sundry that we mean business. I thank the students and their leaders for ensuring that there was no single disturbance in 2016. The fact that there was no distraction meant that we maintained our focus and the academic calendar was not affected in any way. It is fact that in life there is no issue that is too big that it can’t be discussed and an amicable solution found. Confrontation means dialogue has not been given a chance. It is encouraging to note that several TU-K students have already Prof Dr-Ing. Francis W.O. Aduol secured jobs even before they graduate. This is a huge statement on Vice-Chancellor the quality of our teaching and training. Continuing students should be confident and work smart as they look forward to joining the labour market or to create their own businesses and hire others, to work for them. TU-K motto: Education and Training for the Real World, is being actualised by our own students. The Ministry of Education and Avic International Holding Corporation “It is encouraging to deserve our gratitude for making the 2016 Africa Tech Challenge season note that several TU-K a success. The Challenge which was held at TU-K aimed at producing students have already hands-on graduates as well as entrepreneurs. The competition was first secured jobs even before held in 2014 as part of Avic’s corporate social responsibility. The company’s they graduate. This is a partnership with the Government is aimed at creating more than 5,000 jobs by 2019. I am certain that our students maintain a keen interest in the huge statement on the competition, they will form the majority of the 5000 that shall get the d job quality of our teaching A student participates in the question-answer session opportunities. and training. Continuing For the students keen on excelling in academic pursuits, the University students should be tudents have been challenged skills such as communication and AKAD Educational Group Chief has introduced a scholarship scheme. The decision was made by the confident and work smart to think innovatively and presentations. Other valuable Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Julius University Management Board to offer partial scholarships to the best act with integrity in order to considerations include; energy, Weche addressed Creative and performing students as a way of recognising and rewarding their hard as they look forward S to joining the labour compete globally. intelligence and integrity,” he said. Innovative Entrepreneurship in the work. Speaking during the second clubs The Director reminded students modern world. He asked students The University has continued to attract top-notch scholars and market.” -Prof Francis Aduol and Association Exhibition Day, to embrace new technology because to identify their market and come researchers. The coming on board of scholars of repute has increased our held at TU-K, the Director-General it goes hand in hand with innovation up with a product strategy that can capacity in terms of teaching, supervision and research thus making TU-K a of Kenya Vision 2030 Delivery and entrepreneurship. He added, “All stand the test of time. He emphasised first choice for new students. The University staff, both teaching and non- Secretariat Prof. Gituro Wainaina these must be anchored on integrity. on the need for creativity while teaching, also deserve recognition for their hard work that has enabled emphasised that universities should It is a virtue you must practice on packaging their products. the university to come this far. Their hard work and patience in guiding set the pace in innovation. He your own and without waiting to be Kenya Institute of Management students and ensuring university operations are up to standard cannot go added that this can be achieved by taught.” (KIM) Head of Communication and un-noticed. introducing innovative programmes Public Relations Ms Miriam Mukami I wish all students, staff, parents and sponsors a Merry Christmas and as well as ensuring proper asked students to exercise patience, prosperous 2017. management of time and resources. “Students should develop the right attitude and exude Prof. Gituro noted that students acquire proper skills in passion in everything they do. should acquire proper skills in Present during the event included; communication which is key to communication which TU-K Director Communications interaction, socialisation and also is key in interaction and and Public Affairs Dr. Ken Ramani, Editorial Team: Dr Ken Ramani, Cosmas Kanyadudi, embrace other disciplines. “In today’s socialisation.” Director Alumnus Affairs Mr. Maurice Daniel Macharia, Billy Mutai, Lucy Anaya, world, employers look for essential Okungu among others. Bernard Awino, David Mwangi, Larissa Cheloti @TU_Kenya Technical University of Kenya

4 December 2016 December 2016 5 Orientation Orientation CHANCELLOR MAKES A RARE VC TIPS ON ACADEMIC FREEDOM

ADDRESS TO FIRST-YEARS he Vice-Chancellor, Prof Francis Aduol has reminded students to stick to their core business of learning. In This address to First Year students, the VC congratulated the students for attaining good grades that enabled them to join TU-K. He welcomed them to the university and asked them to study diligently. In addition use their time and available resources wisely. He urged them to embrace academic freedom but warned against misusing it. “This is an academic institution, a Professor has freedom to choose what to and how to teach you. You, too, should accept to be taught freely,” emphasised the VC. The Technical University of Kenya Vice Chancellor Prof. Francis Aduol (L) He reminded the students about congratulating the incoming SATUK Chairman Brian Reeves Obare (R), the core mandate of the institution on the center is the outgoing chairman Brayan Ambuli shortly after the in training and imparting practical swearing-in ceremony skills. He further explained that the university had made it mandatory for students to undergo 12 weeks hands-on skills so that when you go of internal attachment commonly out there, you are able to meet these known as Internal Industry-Based “It is the tradition of TU-K expectations of the industry.” Learning (IBL) under the supervision for a student to attend The VC emphasised on lecture of the lecturers and 12 weeks of lectures for at least 75% attendance noting that it is the External Industry-Based Learning. Dr. Manu Chandaria addressing First Year students during 2016 orientation tradition of TU-K for a student to TU-K, he added, had remained a of the course, failure to which one is not allowed attend at least 75% of the lectures distinctive player in academic and in every course failure to which he/ he Chancellor, Dr. Manilal discipline will put most education complete your course or not, but technical education. to sit an examination.” she will not be allowed to sit for — Prof. Francis Aduol (Manu) Chandaria, has institutions in good state, to play you will be judged according to On the requirements of the examination. challenged students their role in contributing towards your deeds,” said Chandaria. industry, he said, “Currently the He further cautioned them to study diligently and Vision 2030,” he said. The University Council industry is looking for graduates with against exam cheating. Prof. Aduol Tutilise all available resources. Dr. In order to remain relevant Chairman, Prof. Godfrey Nguru skills. TU-K is well aware of this and advised students to maintain a high Chandaria noted that thestudents’ in the competitive world, the congratulated students for has taken a strategic role of offering standard of discipline saying it is the individual efforts will determine Chancellor urged students to work gaining good grades that enabled cornerstone of academic excellence. their destiny. hard and embrace education. them to be admitted to the Prof Aduol also urged students to take Dr. Chandaria who addressed “Education is the anchor of your University. He reminded them to part in co curricular activities, terming First Year students, asked them future. As responsible citizens of count themselves privileged and it important for their health as well as not to ignore other aspects of this country, be ready to embrace therefore utilise the opportunities their careers. development the university it. It does not matter whether you will. He further challenged them to take presents. He cited discipline, Prof. Nguru warned students charge of their lives, choose the right commitment, humility and hard against radicalisation, peer friends and cautioned them against work as yard sticks of success in TU-K has the onerous group influence and joining tribal drug abuse, illicit sex, gambling and today’s world. duty of training personnel affiliations. He asked them to other social vices. He reiterated that the that can be the engine remain responsible and make the “Nairobi is a big, beautiful and University has the onerous duty right decisions. complicated city. It has got so many of training personnel that can of industrial and This year recorded the highest challenges. I will plead with you to be the engine of the industrial technological sectors of number of students’ intake. Over be watchful of people you associate and technological sectors of the the country’s economy. 3,000 First Year students were with. Please do not easily fall prey to country’s economy. “Technological admitted. The incoming students council leaders during the swearing-in ceremony conmen.” he added.

6 December 2016 December 2016 7 TECH CHALLENGE CONFERENCE

taff from the department of AFRICA TECHNOLOGY CHALLENGE Journalism and Media Studies Sparticipated in the first ever Journalism staff International Communication Association conference held in Africa. HOLDS ITS FIRST CNC COMPETITION The event was held recently participate in Global at Daystar University in Nairobi,. It brought together more than communication 300 Communication scholars and experts from around the globe to share research, exchange ideas Conference and stimulate dialogue in regard to democracy and growth opportunities in the African continent. “This is a great opportunity for TU-K scholars in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies to share knowledge with scholars on a global platform that further builds one’s portfolio,” said Dr. Joyce Omwoha, the Chair, Journalism and Media Studies Department. Dr. Omwoha participated at the conference as a mentor for Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francis Aduol addressing contestants of the Africa Tech Challenge Season postgraduate students from three CNC Lathe Competition which was held at TU-K different universities. “It is very critical for global communication scholars and professionals to share research work, (From left) Dr. Julius Bosire, Dr. Rhoydah Nyambane, Mr. Allan he Technical University of change when we make good use of skilled manpower,” he noted. exchange ideas and updates on the Wefwafwa​, Dr. Joyce Omwoha, Mr. David Katiambo Kenya (TU-K) received the machines,” said the VC. Ugandan Education commission- latest information and trends in the Tsecond prize in the Africa While speaking about the role of er, Loy Muhwezi observed that the dynamic world of communication,” of Ghana Communication scholar law and ethics, Dr. David Kathiambo Technology Challenge Season Three Technical Training Institutes (TTI) in training should be spread through- she added. Audrey Gadzekpo who discussed whose presentation captured work CNC Lathe Competition organised by enhancing quality education in the out East Africa and that the devel- The conference’s theme was: the link between academy and grounded on Lacan’s theory, Dr. the Ministry of Education and Avic country and beyond, the Professor oping countries need support. “l not Growing Communication Scholarship: democracy. Rhoydah Nyambane addressed International Holding Corporation. explained that Technical Education only view the training as a compe- Looking to the past with gratitude, Among the TU-K scholars who Health Communication and the The competition took place plays a vital role in human resource tition, but also as a skill acquiring the present with passion, the future presented academic papers include; media and Mr. Allan Wefwafwa at the university and was closed development by creating skilled platform,” she said. with hope highlighted relevant Dr. Julius Bosire who articulated media who presented a paper on Political by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francis manpower, enhancing industrial The training was sponsored by issues, trends, and future agendas Communication. Aduol whose address touched productivity and improving the Avic International aims at curbing for communication scholarship. “It is critical for global “It is a privilege to present an on the importance of technology academic paper on a global platform, quality of life. unemployment and producing There were a series of plenary communication scholars emphasising that it drives many “Kenya, as most African hands on graduates as well as sessions by notable communication and especially a conference brought and professionals to share to African soil. More opportunities are economies to compete globally. entrepreneurs. The Africa Tech scholars, practitioners, and policy bound to open,” said Dr. Julius Bosire. The VC urged participants to use Challenge was first held in 2014 makers in the industry. research work.” “Stop saying agriculture Other topics discussed the knowledge and skills acquired as part of Avic’s corporate social The key speaker was University to change the entire continent. is the main source of included: global communication, responsibility. media regulation, ownership and 56 Kenyan students took part livelihood while people Avic International Holding in the CNC competition, alongside are starving. Things will convergence, new media, religion Corporation chief representative Su and media, children, youth and other groups from Uganda, Zambia, change when we make Tianshu disclosed that the company women in the media and science and Ghana respectively who. The good use of machines.” will partner with the Government to communication. top three winners were awarded create 5,000 jobs by 2019. — Prof. Francis Aduol The three-day event was with certificates. In 2015, the ATC took place at sponsored by among others The trainees will receive Shamberere Technical Training International Communication scholarships for Masters Degree to Institute in Kakamega. Winners Association, University of Cape Town be pursued at Beihang University countries, has been left behind in from the 2015 competition were and the Media Council of Kenya. A call in China and will in addition land the economic transformation by awarded scholarships and trained to for scholarly papers has already been contracts to produce and export raw countries with which she was at par manufacture spare parts for earth made for the upcoming conference materials to Chinese companies. in the 1960. This is mainly due to movers. The first consignment was that will be held in San Diego, USA in “Stop saying that agriculture is the slow pace of industrialisation. exported to China early this year. 2017. the main source of livelihood while The lag in industrialisation can be people are starving. Things will attributed largely to the lack of TU-K staff at ICA Conference

8 December 2016 December 2016 9 Scholarship Scholarship STUDENTS TO BENEFIT FROM Scholarship

TU-K launches scholarship Distribution of scholarship to improve performance recipients Programme Name No. of he Technical University students of Kenya has introduced Architecture 28 a students’ scholarship Civil Engineering 27 to reward the best Quantity Survey 21 Tperformers from Kenya Certificate Aeronautical Engineering 15 of Secondary Education (KCSE) Mechanical Engineering 12 examination who get admitted to Electrical and Electronic Engineering 12 the premier institution. Chemical Engineering 6 The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Geospatial Engineering 5 Francis Aduol made the Biochemistry 1 announcement in September, Real Estate 1 when he addressed a group of Accountancy 1 First-Year students who scored Business Information Technology 1 grade ‘A’ Plain at KCSE examination Information Science 1 last year. The VC disclosed that the TOTAL 131 decision was made by the University Management Board to offer a partial scholarship to the best performing students as a way and rewarding their excellence. “This initiative is intended to encourage good performance in academic work at the University. It is a practice all over the world for universities to be proud of top performing scholars in their ranks,” said the Vice-Chancellor. The VC said the recipients will only be retained in the ‘Vice- Chancellor’s Roll of Honour” as long as they score an equivalent of First Class honours every academic year. To obtain a First Class, a student must score an average of 70 per cent in the course of study. “We shall keenly monitor you as you progress through your academic journey. We have a lot of hope in you and trust that you will be mentors to others in order The VC, DVCs and Executive Deans pose for a picture with the scholarship recipients to excel,” the VC told the students. Prof. Aduol said other students not covered in the initial Present during the launch scholarship offer will be considered were Deputy Vice-Chancellor in as long as they meet the strict charge of Academics, Research criteria by posting excellent marks and Students, Prof Paul Shiundu “equivalent of First Class” in their We shall keenly monitor and DVC-Administration, Planning respective degree programmes. you as you progress and Infrastructure, Prof Joseph Speaking on behalf of the Kiplang’at. Others were the scholarship recipients, one through your academic Executive Deans Professors Alex student promised the VC that they journey. Muumbo, Emily Akuno and Francis will do what it takes to remain in Gatheri as well as the Academic the scholarship programme that Registrar, Dr. Hesbon Nyagowa and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr-Ing. Francis W.O. Aduol, Prof. Paul Shiundu , Prof. Joseph Kiplang’at, Prof. Emily Akuno and will reduce the financial burden the Director of Communications Prof. Alex Muumbo during the launch of the student scholarship on their parents. and Public Affairs Dr. Ken Ramani.

10 December 2016 December 2016 11 VISITATION Technology CHINESE DIPLOMATS VISIT TU-K GEO-ICT to BE USED IN FIGHTING crime

TU-K Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francis Aduol (Centre) exchange a document with NCRC Director Gerald Wandera after the signing ceremony. Present during the event were: Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Technology Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) Prof Suki Mwendwa (Second left), the University Secretary Mrs. Ruth Kirwa (Left) and Dr. Simeon Kanani of the School of Surveying and Geospatial Sciences. Others are: NCRC Governing Council Member Prof. Florence Part of the Chinese delegation admire the Lathe machine used in the production of spare parts at TU-K Muli-Musiime (Second right) and Principal Researcher Stephen Muteti (Right).

iplomats from China’s both Mechanical and Electrical centre boasts of a Computer he Technical University of NCRC Governing Council Member Ministry of Foreign Affairs workshops and laboratories. The Aided Design/Computer Aided Kenya has become the first Prof. Florence Muli-Musiime, and recently toured TU-K. Mechanical workshops consist of Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) local university to take a Principal Researcher Stephen They were impressed by Computerised Numerical Control laboratory and a modern Reverse major step in combating Muteti. Tcrime using Geo-ICT technology. TU-K’s departments of Dthe state-of-the-art machines (CNC) milling and turning centres, Engineering laboratory which and equipment at the university. Milling machines, Lathe machines, includes a commercial rapid The university recently signed a Geoinformation & Earth They expressed optimism that Planning machines, Cylindrical and prototyping workstation to aid in Memorandum of Understanding Observation and Spatial Planning & the equipment will provide Surface grinding machines. product design and development. (MoU) with the National Crime TU-K will come up with Design are actively involved in the the necessary skills for the The Electrical laboratories has Present during the visit was Research Centre (NCRC). ways of mapping and project that will integrate human establishment of small-scale the Programmable Logic Control TU-K Deputy Vice-Chancellor in TU-K will come up with ways of visualising crime in safety and security, with urban industries through research, units and Motor Rewinding charge of Technology, Partnerships mapping and visualising crime in form of databases and design. development and related workstations. In addition, the and Innovations (TIP) Prof. Suki form of databases and Geographic Geographic Information The University will further activities. Mwendwa, Faculty of Engineering Information System (GIS) mapping. benefit from the MoU by acquiring System (GIS) mapping. The diplomats noted this The Centre was Science and Technology (FEST) The MoU was signed by the VC, scholarships for five PhDs and 10 recently, during their tour of the Executive Dean Prof. Alex Muumbo officially opened by Prof. Francis Aduol and Director masters students in the area of university to assess the Kenya among other members of faculty. Gerald Wandera. The ceremony crime mapping. RD – China Friendship Technology the 3 President of The Centre is being used to was witnessed by Deputy Vice- Prof. Aduol observed that the Training Centre (KCFTTC). They Kenya,Mwai Kibaki on develop a new class of creative Chancellor in charge of Technology signing of an MoU marked an were accompanied by officials 15th January 2013. It has and technically-competent en- Innovation and Partnerships important journey in reducing crime from Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign trepreneurs and engineering. It (TIP) Prof Suki Mwendwa, the using technology and therefore Affairs. both Mechanical and will further develop and utilise University Secretary Mrs. Ruth should not only be limited to The Centre was officially opened Electrical workshops and technical manpower and exper- Kirwa and Dr. Simeon Kanani degree programmes adding and by the 3rd President of Kenya, Mwai tise from engineering institutes laboratories. of the School of Surveying and staff exchange that security of any Kibaki on 15th January 2013. It has and colleges. Geospatial Sciences. Others were given society is paramount.

12 December 2016 December 2016 13 Elections SATUK

Students elect new leaders 2016 STUDENTS COUNCIL

ChairPERSON

Brian Reeves Obare

DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON SECRETARY GENERAL FINANCE SECRETARY

Josephine Valerie Marani Jackson Kobia Anampiu Janet Wanjiru Mwangi

ACADEMIC SECRETARY CONSTITUTIONAL AFFAIRS SOCIAL WELFARE GENDER AFFAIRS

The incoming TU-K students council leaders during the swearing-in ceremony at the University’s Main Hall

he new student Council Aduol who was accompanied by his people do not need to fight during was sworn in on October deputies Prof. Joseph Kiplang’at and after elections. The winners 14th 2016. (in charge of Administration, and losers have accepted the Brian Reeves Obare Planning and Infrastructure and results with grace. Indeed we are Pharis Wambugu Jane Navil Odoyo Odhiambo John Bosco Mawira Rose Adongo Okiya proud of you.” Twas elected the Chairman of the Prof. Paul Shiundu (in charge SPECIAL NEEDS SECRETARY SPORTS SECRETARY FEMALE HOSTEL REP MALE HOSTEL REP Council. He will be deputised by of Academics, Research and He reminded officials to take up Josephine Valarie Marani. The Students) congratulated the new the responsibility with honour and Secretary General position has officials and applauded students that they have an enormous duty been taken over by Jackson Kobia for carrying out peaceful elections. awaiting them. Anampiu and the Finance docket The VC said, “You have While reminding both student by Janet Wanjiru Mwangi. demonstrated to other universities leaders and the student fraternity Other officials who will serve in and the country at large that to uphold laws spelt out in the the Students’ Council include; the elections can be peaceful and that Charter, Statutes as well as the Constitutional Affairs Secretary Student Constitution. Nevil Odoyo Odhiambo, Academic The University Secretary Mrs David Kerry Obura Brian Oduor Naomi Kemunto Kimasigi Kennedy Kairu Gitau Secretary Pharis Wambugu Jane, “You have demonstrated Ruth Kirwa who conducted the SPEAKER DEPUTY SPEAKER CLERK SERGENT-AT-ARMS Gender Affairs Secretary Rose to other universities and swearing in ceremony, applauded Adongo Okiya. the country at large that the student voters for complying The School of Mathematics and elections can be peaceful with the third gender rule that ensures the Council is gender- Actuarial Sciences went against and that people do not the norm. A female student, sensitive. Dorcas Wamaitha Gatheru was need to fight during and The incoming Chairman thanked the administration and student elected and will be deputised by after elections.” Evans Ouma Odhiambo. —Prof. Francis Aduol fraternity and promised to deliver Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francis their mandate. Paul Ngethe Karanja William Shitemi Wamoyo Gloria Akinyi Oketch Fredrik Chiluba Ongang’o

14 December 2016 December 2016 15 Innovation Workshop ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP HELD AT TU-K iscussions in regard to pesticides as a necessary Dtool in reducing crop losses and increasing food production to feed the growing population, particularly in countries such as Kenya has elicited great interest. This formed part of the discussions during a workshop dubbed, “A Global Framework for Implementing Consistent Ecological Risk Assessment for Pesticides for Sustainable Agriculture,” held at TU-K. The Workshop was opened by Prof Alex Muumbo, the Executive Dean, Faculty of Engineering Science and Technology, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Francis Aduol. Participants Peter Mbiria, the student innovator, working on Electric Convertible (E-con ) wheelchair to be showcased in London. were drawn from the industry, Some of the participants during the workshop academia and government. They gave a total of 12 presentations. Many countries include an Analysis, Risk characterisation Just like the previous ecological risk assessment in and Risk management. These Student Innovator workshops, participants agreed their registration requirements five major phases, together with that the information was useful but as risk assessment is an international approaches to and therefore assisted them to evolving science, it is important, ecological risk assessment, were Shortlisted for understand the complexities of particularly in scientifically discussed in detail. ecological risk assessment. emerging regions, that the current The conference further It was reported that losses in best practices are understood and discussed all aspects of ecological Africa Prize maize in sub-Saharan Africa was properly implemented. risk assessment, including upto 50% due to stem borers, Leading experts in risk good modeling practices, eter Mbiria, a TU-K student smart functions that enable the 75% due to fungal attack by grey assessment during the workshop scenario development and local has been shortlisted for the user to be mobile, comfortable and leaf spot and up to 90% caused by included; Prof Joseph Lalah- requirements. Participants were Africa Prize for Engineering independent. The idea of designing weed competition. Workshop Coordinator, TU-Kenya, also able to network with the Innovation. was conceptualised in 2011. The During the presentations, it Prof Shem Wandiga - Director, experts present. PMr. Mbiria who is pursuing first prototype was developed in emerged that up to 50% of the Institute of Climate Change, One of IUPAC mandates is a diploma in Electrical and August 2014 for testing purposes. losses experienced during maize University of Nairobi. Dr. John B. to provide training to young Electronics Engineering, is among The wheelchair has aspects of a production resulted from skin Unsworth - Private Consultant, scientists from government 16 contestants selected from the tank belt system though inverted, a borers, 75% due to fungal attacks previously Bayer CropScience, UK. regulatory authorities, industry, African continent, to participate in 4 by 4 vehicle systems and a manual by grey leaf spot and upto 90% It was noted that an ecological research and academic sectors the competition and subsequent wheelchair both modified to suit the caused by weed competition. risk assessment can be broken in developing nations who will award organised by the Royal terrain environment. The use of pesticides may have down into several different steps; in future provide leadership in Academy of Engineering in London. negative ecological impacts which Planning, Problem formulation, implementation of sustainable Mbiria’s innovation is an Electric need to be minimised. One of development programs in their Convertible (E-con ) wheelchair (a Mbiria’s innovation is the key elements in the safe and One of IUPAC mandates is countries. specialised off-road wheelchair for on Electric Convertible sustainable use of a pesticide is to provide training to young IUPAC in collaboration with the disabled). It is an attraction both to evaluate how the environment scientists from Government CropLife International, AGRO locally and internationally. If he wins (E-con) wheelchair (a may be impacted as a result regulatory authorities, industry, Division of the American Chemical the award, he will become the first specialised off-road of exposure to the pesticide; research and academic sectors Society and TU-K sponsored the Kenyan student innovator to walk wheelchair for the this requires an ecological risk in developing nations. workshop as part of fulfilling the away with the coveted prize. disabled). assessment. IUPAC mandate. The wheelchair features multiple Peter Mbiria

16 December 2016 December 2016 17 SCHOLARSHIP SCHOLARSHIP

TU-K students land jobs even before graduating

Journalism student joins Nation Media Group even before he graduates, thanks to his Journalism finalist wants “Experience at ATPS impeccable writing skills honed at TU-K. undergraduates to is already seasoning my career in communication develop specific skills and and corporate world. I be aggressive to break am mastering practical into the labour market. skills to creatively solve as an intern and on part-time donijah Ochieng, a problems,” added Sharon. basis in various organisations Bachelor of Technology Technical University of She praised TU-K staff among them Astute Technologies, in Journalism and Mass Kenya Journalism and for remaining tough Buni Innovators and The Nairobi Communication finalist Mass Communication during their coursework Ahas received recognition from Upperhill Hotel. finalist is encouraging indicating that the work In addition to being a practising market players in Online Media, Acontinuing students to nurture situation demands journalist, Adonijah is a Co- Corporate and Market. their career strengths and build bold personalities who founder of Techno Brass Ltd, a Adonijah who is graduating in skills around them in-line with measure-up to the digital and positioning start-up December 2016 has already built market trends. challenges. firm that seeks to help budding an online content development Sharon Anyango Odhiambo, They say if you think entrepreneurs increase their and digital marketing company, who is a Communications and that your lecturer is visibility and reach. At Techno a portfolio that has since earned Outreach Officer at African tough wait till you meet Brass, he helps in developing him contracts with various Technology Policy Studies your boss. content for digital and social media companies such as Nation Media Network (ATPS) says market “I must admit that I marketing. He also runs and writes Group where he is charged with demands professionalism and have built muscle in my on health issues for Afyasmile responsibilities including boosting hands-on personalities with self- profession. I am proud to Kenya, a health blog he founded online performance, ensuring drive; a key component TU-K have been taken through together with a college mate. visibility and market positioning. emphasises during training. classwork with lecturers Before her elevation to the who understood market Risk-taker Broad-minded position of Communications and trends, particularly in Adonijah Ochieng A calculated risk-taker with a He is a broad-minded journalist Outreach Officer at ATPS, Sharon technology,” she adds. growing knowledge in digital embracing the current shift of joined the organisation as an Before she joined technology and communication, media content consumption The Kenyan Weekly, where he intern where she impressed her ATP, Sharon got an Adonijah has curved a niche from the traditional print and published stories on a range of authorities. opportunity to intern at as a n all-rounded journalist broadcast to the multimedia issues with specific interest on African Technology Policy Elective Africa. Which who executes the converged Sharon Odhiambo online convergence that demands policy, education, health, and Studies Network, is a trans- was a stepping-stone to newsroom dynamics. multifaceted professionals. The business. He became an asset disciplinary network of the corporate world. He has equally helped his online media migration that for the news publisher whereby researchers, policymakers, “We were expected colleagues grow their media and has already taken root in Kenya during his second month of private sector actors and men throughout the four years to make weekly communication career and scope. demands constant content update internship he helped start the the civil society that promote of study. I quickly learnt to stay presentation of progress reports on “Steady rise of internet and including write-ups, pictures, online and digital news desk which generation, dissemination, with them, and I take pride to ongoing projects, which instilled in telephone penetration in Kenya short videos and info-graphics. he headed until he left in May of use and mastery of STI for African have out-performed several male me discipline.” and the great global connectivity Throughout the four years 2016. development, environmental colleagues,” she notes. Some of the assignments is swiftly reshaping market trends, of study at TU-K, he learnt the Adonijah has also held positions sustainability and global inclusion. she was tasked with included media, consumerism, interaction, theoretical and practical skills that Sharon joined TU-K to I must admit that I monitoring market competition, business, politics among prepared him adequately for his pursue Bachelor of Technology designing solutions to emerging other pertinent components have built muscle in my current job in journalism. The online media in Journalism and Mass challenges, among other key around human beings and the profession. I am proud to “In July 2016, I got a lifetime migration that has Communication is set to graduate market components. environment; with such a golden have been taken through opportunity as an intern at Nation this December. “To crown it, young minds already taken root in opportunity. I have taken up Media Group’s Business Daily as an Surprisingly she was the only classwork with lecturers preparing for the job market must Kenya demands constant the challenge to educate my online editor where I developed female student in her class, who understood market take an initiative to identify what content update including colleagues on the various career interest in online journalism to going against the notion that they are best in, remain aggressive, paths. Young people can invest trends, particularly in align myself with the changing write-ups, pictures, short the communication and media identify possible market openings their energy and make an excellent technology.” trends of the industry,” he said. videos and info-graphics. profession was only for men. and remain steadfast to learn the career,” he added. — Sharon Odhiambo Prior to Nation, he worked for “You can’t imagine being around trade,” she concludes.

18 December 2016 December 2016 19 PERFORMING ARTS PERFORMING ARTS Double Scoop for Music TU-K TOPS in the 2016 Student in National Fete Kenya Music Festivals Technical University of Kenya This conferred her a strong footing, student won two coveted confidence and energy to strive for awards during the annual the best. At the St. Veronica Catholic National Music Festivals that Church, Syokimau where she attends Awere held at Kasarani in October. service, she is a choir member and Mary Nduta, a second year sings the Psalms, a procedure during Bachelor of Music student emerged Mass. the best in Soprano Solo Set Piece and “In my Kenya Certificate of Alto Solo Set Piece in the Universities Secondary Education (KCSE), I Category. scored an A- (minus) in Music and Her excellent performance an aggregate of B+ (plus). Prior to was part of the aggregate awards the release of KCSE results, I picked that placed TU-K on top of other medicine coursework as the first universities. choice to take after my father and Other awards TU-K won were the sibling’s footsteps who are in the Central Bank of Kenya Set Piece with medical field and music was my last the song Miaka Hamsini, Lamentation choice,” Nduta noted. of Jeremiah, two Quartet in the same Mary Nduta When TU-K invited her to pursue class, Duet, a Trio and double number a Bachelors Degree in Music, she changed her mind from pursuing a second position in other categories. taught by the TU-K Faculty of Social medical career. Nduta traces her passion to her Sciences and Technology Executive “When I got the placement letter family background describing her Dean (FSST) Prof. Emily Akuno in from TU-K, I again wanted to do an love for music as binding commitment his Bachelors degree at Kenyatta inter-varsity transfer to KU, but I TU-K student’s choir performing at a past function to a soothing career. University, commended her for realised TU-K is the best university “I am so happy to have posted mastering the music scale - Doh Re in teaching music. This is for the sole impressive results in the just ended Mi Fah Soh Lah Ti Doh ahead of other reason that we are few in class, that music festivals, accolades go to my students in form one. he Technical University the University Category. They did means we get sufficient access to trainers, music and performing arts “My father James Gichu who is a of Kenya emerged the a rendition of the CBK anthem music instruments including violin, colleagues, my family members, choir master at his local church and a best overall winner in the which earned them a 94 per saxophone and piano,” said Nduta. T my church and audience who have career dentist had already taught me University category in this year’s cent mark. The highest in their She adds that one-on-one supported me all through,” said techniques in performing music scale Kenya Music Festivals scooping category, a trophy and cash prize of mentorship is key in performing arts. Nduta. and this of course gave me an upper first position in thirteen categories, Sh200,000. TU-K is on the market frontline Back in primary school oblivious hand in school,” said Nduta. second position in ten categories There were nine vocal and in training music. Other universities of her future career, Nduta was a With concerted effort and and third position in six categories. instrumental solo classes in offering the course are Maseno, Moi leader in worship amongst her peers commitment, Nduta won coveted The 10-day season of song, The festival highlight Western and African music and Kenyatta University. during children’s choirs both in church Soprano Award - Solo Set piece in dance, music and elocution at the was the award of the performances, earning a number Some of the students are already and school. And of course with the 2013 National Music Festival that Kasarani Sport Complex in August of merit certificates on top of the building their careers through university category’s encouragement from primary school was held in Nakuru. hosted by Ministry of Education Central Bank of Kenya first and second positions. The teachers to lead in songs. In high performance in concerts including was sponsored by the Central ensemble classes saw a trio and school, Nduta sprouted to later win the Nairobi Chamber Chorus and Bank of Kenya (CBK) as a way of Trophy for their two quartets in a class of their own, an award in National Music Festivals. “My father James Gichu, other platforms in Nairobi and across celebrating the 50th anniversary. rendition of the CBK and well-arranged instrumental the country. When she joined secondary a choir master at his The artistic highlight of the Anthem, awarded 94 per ensembles. school, her passion would be spotted, Nduta is part of Bel Canto, a girls event was the extraordinary This year, 10 visiting Makerere local church and a career choir bringing together female cent, the highest mark in she identified music clubs and choirs performance of TU-K choir’s the University Category. University students were part to nature her talent. dentist, had already students mentored by Dr. Abbey accompanied mixed set piece of the TU-K dance troupe. Their “Within no time, Mr Joseph Kiiru, taught me techniques in Chokera who is part time lecturer at where the impeccable tonal quality performance of three different a Music teacher at Senior Chief performing music scale TU-K and Kenyatta University. and expressive rendition of Z. dances earned them second “Music industry is rapidly Koinange Girls High School, quickly and this of course gave Randall Stroope’s Lamentations of position with excellent marks. identified my talent and appointed growing opening up several me an upper hand in Jeremiah gave them a 90 per cent The University lauded the me a Music Prefect in Form One,” career opportunities, this calls score, in first place. Department of Music and disclosed Nduta adding that the new school.” — Nduta. for professionalism in training, Another festival highlight was Performing Arts for excellent position boosted her zeal in music. production and performance,” the victory of the TU-K choir in results. Nduta said Mr. Kiiru who was concludes Nduta.

20 December 2016 December 2016 21 Space Science Space Science

Astronomy researchers, students and other stakeholders pose for a group picture during the World Space Week seminar that was held at World Space Week MARKED UoN. (Right): TU-K School of Physical TU-K joins other institutions in marking this year’s event held at the University of Nairobi Sciences and Technology Director Prof. Paul Baki (in red tie) with some of the participants he Technical University of Prof. Baki gave the first keynote to promote the celebration of the Kenya was among the main address. He demystified in detail event within their own countries. participants in the World Space space science and technology. The World Space Week intends of Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta University T of Agriculture Technology and The week, an international celebration of “Science isn’t given, you must be to educate people around the Science and technology held at the ready and stand out to do it,” Prof. world about the benefits of space, Technical University of Kenya. University of Nairobi. Baki said. provide unique leverage in space Emuhaya MP Dr. Otchillo Among the main speakers were The World Space Week came outreach and education and foster expounded on key components Emuhaya MP Dr. Wilber Ottichilo, about in 1999 when the United international cooperation in space space science can play in technology Prof. Baki, Director School of Nations General Assembly declared outreach and education. transfer in day-to-day activities that Physical Sciences and Technology that World Space Week should be The event aims to excite young can quickly elevate the country’s at The Technical University of Kenya celebrated in October. It is in this people about science, technology, economic and social growth and and Dr. Moses Rugut, Director- line that the World Space Week engineering, and math. The event status. Countries who have embraced the science laboratory for space science General National Commission for Association (WSWA) came up with a witnessed representation from “You note that developed countries big data are already gaining valuable issues with relevant software and Science, Technology and Innovation global team of national coordinators students and staff of the University have not yet stopped developing, investment in terms of social, facilities such as radio astronomy to (NACOSTI). this is through innovations and scientific, economic and strategic encourage greater use of space for This year’s theme was “Remote technology,” the MP noted adding goals. 58 countries worldwide spent sustainable economic development. Sensing: Enabling our Future” an that Kenya must understand the over 10 million dollars on space Some of the partnerships at TU-K inward looking theme, which touched importance of space science and the in 2013 compared to 2003 and in include the Nano Satellite project, on earth observation from Space big data. addition 22 additional countries are Cubesat project and Radio Astronomy for the betterment of the human He exhibited the 3i’s approach putting in place plans for future space project in collaboration with Leeds race and highlighted a host of classic he used in his constituency that investments. University of Manchester, England. earth observation missions such as has since attracted accolades from Kenya intends to set up a space In order to demonstrate public the U.S. Landsat mission, the work of technology stakeholders and from support for space programmes, inter-governmental groups such as other constituencies across the In order to demonstrate Kenya also plans to launch the Space GEOSS Group on Earth Observations country. public support for space Physics Society of Kenya. and emphasised on applications “To achieve growth, leadership and Last year’s theme, “Discovery” policy makers ought to give it the ‘3i’s programmes, Kenya also celebrated the exciting discoveries such as environment and agriculture plans to launch the Space monitoring, land use mapping and framework’; Information, Initiative in space, teaching about our origins and Impact to the society,” Dr. Otchillo Physics Society of Kenya. and our future and resulted in 1900 new uses such as location based Emuhaya MP Dr. Wilber Ottichilo speaking during the World Space Week seminar services. that was held at UoN explained. events in 73 countries.

22 December 2016 December 2016 23 Space Science Technology

space science dons Join TU-K Technology Innovation ‘Blaze’ at Technical University of Kenya

Prof. Paul Baki, Director, School of Physical Sciences and Technology

he Technical University of Kenya has hired four Physics and Space Science Some of the Space Science researchers during a training session inside a Physics lab researchers from the just Tconcluded Square Kilometre Array The project is part of Kenya’s build- Similar trainings are simultane- A TU-K student enquires information from a TECHNO Kenya vendor. Techno was at the univerisity to recruit (SKA) training in South Africa and in up mission to strengthen Information ously running in Namibia and Zam- graduate trainees to be absorbed at the technical and marketing departments under the campaign ‘Watch me Grow’ Kenya. Communication and Technology bia and later in Ghana, Botswana, The scholars are part of the team through Big Data Science. Mozambique and Mauritius. South tudents at the Technical Marketing Executive, Mugure rates, students who subscribe of 12 who underwent initial study ‘Big Data’, Physics and Space Africa which is the SKA Continent’s University of Kenya (TU-K) Waithiru, who is spearheading to this tariff will also be able to programme of a Mega-Science Radio Science is transferable to other Headquarters is already steps ahead. got to experience the Blaze the Blaze campaign, the young exercise their innovative and Astronomy that would set base in sectors including ICTs and inspiration “In five years, renovation of the Wave, a youth innovation innovators are drawn from various entrepreneurship skills. Longonot. of Engineering Technologies and Longonot Communication satellite Sby telecommunications giant universities. The campaign has put up a According to TU-K School of Science. will be underway and in 10 year-time, Safaricom Kenya. “Youth in Kenya are very talented, mentorship summit dubbed ‘Be Physical Sciences and Technology According to Prof. Baki who the station will be running,” said Prof. Blaze is a new tariff launched by passionate and ambitious about Your Own Boss’ (BYOB) intended to Director Prof. Paul Baki, the university oversees SKA’s training process Baki. Safaricom tailored for people below life.”said mugure. These qualities encourage young people to venture is taking in the scholars to the in Kenya, the Longonot Satellite The massive project running 26 years. The tariff offers a subsided are important in entrepreneurship. into entrepreneurship. The BYOB department to lead in space science Earth Communication Station is across the continent will give a package with internet bundles, talk This however calls for training, summit provides platforms to nature research and teaching. window to joint and elaborate time and text messages. Besides mentorship, funding, planning, talents and innovation around “After the training both in Kenya The Longonot Satellite Astronomy studies in the continent the exciting social media access, the career paths including, music, and South Africa that ended in May and sharing of collared Big Data with Earth Communication young generation equally get easy “The youth in Kenya are art, media, content production, this year, the team becomes the first other station across the world. access to online research via mobile fashion, graffiti, film, photography, batch of scholars we are preparing Station is undergoing According to University of very talented, passionate phones. and ambitious about technology, entrepreneurship, for major Astronomy studies taking refurbishment that Manchester Director of Research, Being the leader in technology agriculture among others. shape across the African continent,” would see deployment School of Physics and Astronomy and innovation in the region, TU-K life. This, however, During the BYOB sessions, said Prof. Baki. of massive research Prof. Peter Wilkinson who is the lead played host to the innovation and calls for training, students will get a chance to tell He said the scholars drown from instructor in Kenya’s SKA project, marketing campaign in a bid to mentorship, funding, their stories, share their ambitions local universities including Technical equipment to aid the initiative in Africa would be technology and space challenge young scholars to develop planning, networking and interact with mentors who will University of Kenya, University the next driver of the continent’s solutions through innovation in the inspire and guide them on their and discipline.” — Mugure of Nairobi, Chuka, Egerton, Moi, science studies. economy from building up scientists society. journey to growing their careers. Kenyatta and Rongo Universities are among young scholars to massive Blaze is an innovation targeting Waithiru. The BYOB summit will also offer doing their Master programmes or undergoing refurbishment that technological innovations. the youth where Safaricom involves an opportunity to the youth to PhDs. would see deployment of massive “The project is not only targeted at Kenyan youth below 26 years to audition for the Blaze TV show, “The SKA project funded by United research equipment, technology and pure sciences. It is tuned to building participate in its conceptualisation networking and discipline,” she that will offer a select few the Kingdom government through space science studies. high technology quality ideas, and development of Blaze. added. opportunity to compete for start-up Newton Fund Project is taking Longonot that served up to 2013 as high performance computing and According to Safaricom’s Besides simply enjoying cheaper funding. another cohort in September this an Earth Communication station was generation of big data,” noted Prof year for training,” Prof. Baki noted. phased out by fibre optic technology. Wilkinson. 24 December 2016 December 2016 25 Training Conference

he Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francis Aduol has students SHINE at reiterated the University’s International commitment in upholding TSocial Sciences saying that SAMSUNG academy they are the back bone of other disciplines. Music Conference “Science and Technology cannot prosper without Social Sciences. For people to operate held at TU-K well in any society, they need extensive skills for instance in music, communication, among others,” he said. Prof. Aduol spoke recently when he hosted a conference by the International Music Council. The Council has been organising internships and exchange programs for students pursuing music, for the last three years, through the African Music Samsung Electronics East Africa Vice- Development Programme (AMDP). President and Managing Director, TU-K and Makerere have Jung Hyun Park Graduates pose with certificates after the ceremony taken part in the programme for three consecutive years. Both said the Academy’s primary goal is to he Technical University student, Carolyne Mwikali David, universities send students for develop technicians, technologists of Kenya (TU-K) is a top who is pursuing a Diploma in exchange programmes as well as TU-K Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francis Aduol (Center), Secretary General of and engineers across the country institution in training hands- Technology (Electrical and Electronic internships. the International Music Council Silja Fischer (Left) and Charles Houdart, to address the critical technical and on-skills. Engineering). Paul Kung’u Muthoni Prof. Aduol commended the responsible for Africa Music Development Programme, were among guests TThe University was fated at a also from TU-K and pursuing the same engineering skills shortage that exist team and urged them to market that graced the conference. in the job market. colourful Samsung Engineering course, took the second position. Music throughout the world. “Our focus is on those pursuing Academy graduation ceremony, John Mark Nthiga from Multi-Media He advised students aspiring to recently held at a Nairobi hotel. University came third. The winners Electrical and Electronics Engineering, study music in universities and and acknowledged reports by While receiving the award on took home smart TVs 48-inch, 42- Information Technology, Scientific Mozambique and Morocco were institutions of higher learning,, to TU-K student Edmond Obillah who behalf of TU-K, the Executive Dean inch and a 32-inch respectively. Computing and Mechanical and well represented. go for it. went for two months internship Faculty of Engineering Sciences 58 students from various Telecommunication Engineering. The The discussion on the ways of “In most universities, very few in Shoko Zimbabwe and Michelle and Technology (FEST) Prof. Alex top performing students are offered continuing with the programme students apply for music courses Bisonga who was attached at a Muumbo, accompanied by the an internship at Samsung Electronics for instance by reducing costs because they think it has no useful university in Cameroon. Director, Centre for Engineering The academy was or its service partners and thereafter among other measures, took career. I want to advise you that The students’ witness account Innovation and production, Dr. Erick work as independent service centre stage. The team agreed to launched four years ago. there is life after studying music on the exchange program formed Ogur, thanked the academy for technicians or employees within their develop a proposal that will seek It has seen students and therefore go for it and give it a discussion on the importance of starting the initiative which he said, respective regions,” added Mr. Park. funding. graduate with hands-on the seriousness it deserves,” he writing and presenting articulate shapes the future of technology in The nine-month course taken The conference further received emphatically said. reports after every attachment. the country. practical skills. by the students constitutes 20 per The VC observed that TU-K TU-K was represented by “This is a culmination of efforts cent theory, while the practical was rated highly in music and “In most universities, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in that have seen our students gain work covers 80 per cent. The therefore attracted students with charge of Academics Research a lot of experience and the culture universities and Technical Institutions course is divided into five modules; very few students higher grades. and Students (ARS) Prof. Paul of practical skills. I wish the country graduated from the academy. This Hand-held products, laptops and apply for music courses “Music Department is the Shiundu and Executive Dean, replicates this if it has to change for is part of the Samsung’s broader printers, consumers’ electronics, air youngest but strongest and has because they think it has Faculty of Social Sciences and the better,” said Prof. Muumbo. goal to develop skilled electronics conditioning and soft skills. a team of dedicated staff and no useful career. I want Technology (FSST) Prof. Emily The Dean thanked Samsung technicians and engineers across the The student selection was done enthusiastic students. Over the to advise that there is life Akuno. Other dignitaries present for partnering with education country. competitively from Samsung partner years, we are concerned with the included; Secretary General of institutions and called for more The academy was launched institutions; TU-K, Jomo Kenyatta after studying music and person we produce and not just the International Music Council collaborations and partnerships four years ago, has seen students University of Agriculture and therefore go for it and the equipment,” Prof Aduol said. Silja Fischer, Charles Houdart, between universities, industry graduate after gaining hands-on Technology, Multimedia University, The Conference brought give it the seriousness it responsible for Africa Music practitioners and professionals in practical skills. Samsung Electronics Machakos University, Kabete together universities from Cote deserves.” ­ Development Programme among the training activities. East Africa Vice-President and National Polytechic and Nairobi d’Ivoire, Kenya, Uganda and Congo. —Prof Francis Aduol. others. Technical Training Institute. TU-K produced the best overall Managing Director, Jung Hyun Park, Music festivals from Swaziland,

26 December 2016 December 2016 27 ACHIEVEMENT Appointments Wamalwa obtains a PhD in Kennedy Ronoh Kibet Dr. Arun Datta Mr. Kennedy Ronoh Dr. Datta has been promoted has been appointed an to a Senior Lecturer position at Assistant Lecturer at Technical University of Kenya’s MathematicAL StatisticS Technical University of Department of Centre for Science Kenya’s Department of and Technology Studies (SPST). Senior Assistant Registrar over time, the hazard rate is a rate Computational Science and He holds a PhD in Philosophy at the Technical University of change function also known as Technology. He is currently from University of Nairobi (UoN) of Kenya was the only failure rate function in reliability a Computer Science PhD – 2011, a Master of Arts Degree Doctor of Philosophy engineering and the force of student at the University in Philosophy - UoN, Master of Agraduand in Mathematical Statistics mortality in life contingency theory. of Nairobi (UoN). He holds Science in Mathematics – H. P. U th during the 55 graduation ceremony If Nt is the number of changes or a Master of Science Degree India and a Bachelors Degree in Mathematics, Physics of the University of Nairobi that was failures in the time interval [0, in Electrical Engineering, Wireless Networks and Chemistry from P. U. India. Dr. Datta has in his belt nd held on 2 September 2016. t] and T = t is the time until the and Electronics major from Linköping University, 10 publications, three of them still under research. Moses Wakoli Wamalwa wrote occurrence of the first change, then Sweden - 2012, and holds a Bachelors Degree a thesis whose title is “Hazard pn(t) = Prob (Nt = n) is an infinitely in Computer Engineering from Moi University. functions of exponential mixtures divisible mixed Poisson distribution, Up to his appointment at TU-K in April this year, Barry Onyoyo and their link with mixed poisson which is also a compound Poisson Mr. Ronoh was a Tutorial Fellow at Machakos Onyonyo Barry Michael has distributions”. distribution. University College. been promoted to an Assistant He was motivated by Walhin and The tools or methodologies Lecturer at Department of Paris (1999), who defined a class of in this study include; special Benard Owuor Architectural and Environmental mixed Poisson distribution in terms functions, which have been used to Dr. Moses Wakoli Wamalwa Design. Prior to his promotion of the derivative of some function. construct some mixing distributions Mr. Bernard Owuor has been he was a Tutorial Fellow. He While re-examining this definition, exponential mixture. and exponential mixtures; appointed a Lecturer at Technical holds extensive project architect Wamalwa realised that this Given the importance of hazard transformations, which have been University of Kenya Design and experience in managing design derivative is a hazard function functions of exponential mixtures used to obtain moments of the Creative Media Depart. Owuor has and construction teams, codes of type 1 exponential mixture in the development of these mixtures that are in terms of the eight years of Lecturing and as a interpretation and optimisation, and thus determined that there models, the hazard functions have modified Bessel function of the third Consultant with a specialisation building standards, regulations and practices is a link between mixed Poisson been constructed using continuous kind and confluent hypergeometric in Post Production – Film and applicable to design, construction supervision and distributions and exponential mixing distributions through function; generating functions, Video. He holds a Master of project management. He is a certified member of mixtures. probability density functions which have been used to determine Arts Degree in Post Production Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity He therefore redefined the mixed and survival functions, and using the corresponding mixed Poisson – film and Video Editing from Surveyors (BORAQS), also a corporate member of the Poisson distribution in terms of the distribution and the pmf of the Bournemouth University - 2008, Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK). He holds both hazard function of an exponential iid random variables; conditional United Kingdom, registered for a PhD Degree in Film “He was able to show a Postgraduate degree in Architecture: Urban design mixture. In so doing, he was able to expectation, which has been used Technology at The Technical University of Kenya. He that there is a link (2014) and an undergraduate degree in Architecture show that there is a link between as an alternative technique in cases holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunication/ (2008) from the University of Nairobi. exponential and Poisson mixtures, between exponential where the Mellin transform fails. Electronic Media from Texas Southern University, such that a hazard function of an and Poisson mixtures, Wamalwa also holds a Bachelor United States of America (USA). exponential mixture characterises such that a hazard of Education degree, majoring Dr. Joseph Musilwa Kedogo an infinitely divisible mixedfunction of an in Statistics, from Kenyatta Maureen M. Njenga Poisson distribution, which is also a University; and a Master of Science Dr. Kedogo has been appointed compound Poisson distribution. exponential mixture as a Lecturer at the School in Population Studies from the Ms. Njenga has been Wamalwa established that since characterises an of Architecture and Built University of Nairobi (PSRI). appointed as Tutorial a hazard function of an exponential infinitely divisible mixed Engineering (SABE). He has 14 It is indeed a great achievement Fellow at the Department of mixture is completely monotone, years of academic research and Poisson distribution, for Wamalwa to have successfully Music and Performing Arts. then the mixing distribution is teaching experience in local which is also a compound completed a PhD in Mathematical Until her appointment, Ms. infinitely divisible through Laplace and international universities, Statistics at the School of Njenga was an Assistant transform; and a Poisson mixture Poisson distribution.” development organisations Mathematics, given his busy County Commissioner at with an infinitely divisible mixing and a 15-year architectural schedule as head of Examinations the Ministry of Interior and distribution is infinitely divisible too. practice in East African’s private Laplace transforms of probability Office at TUK. Coordination’s Department Further, an infinitely divisible mixed sector. Kedogo is a PhD holder in density functions in continuous He has since published two of State Functions where Poisson distribution is a compound Architecture from Technische Universität Berlin (TU compound distributions. The research papers in the Mathematical she was charged with Poisson distribution. He also Berlin) Germany, Master of Science in Technology and models developed were applied to a Theory of Modelling Journal responsibilities among constructed the compound poisson Resource Management in the Tropics and Subtropics class of mixed Poisson distribution published by the International them organising and distribution recursively in terms of with a Major in Integrated Planning and Building - known as Hofmann distributions. Institute of Science and Technology coordinating of state functions including writing the probability mass function (pmf) 2009 from Cologne University of Technology, Arts In many applications, especially (IISTE) and he has lined up 4 of directives and pronouncement given by the of the independent and identically and Sciences (TH Köln) Germany. those for biological organisms and more papers that are ready to be President. distributed (i.i.d.) random variables mechanical systems that wear out published. and the hazard function of the

28 December 2016 December 2016 29 International News International News

leads to the “Dr” and the medieval flourish of the Tudor bonnet. Yet Champagne and I hear Macbeth’s line in my head: “Why do you dress me in borrowed robes?” My sense of identity hasn’t anxiety: Diary of caught up with the reality of finishing the PhD. My new almost- doctor-ness feels ill-fitting. My a PhD completion never ending PhD story is coming to an end. Or is that a beginning? When I started the doctorate, I saw its completion as the pinnacle. Now I realise it’s entry level. Friday: I notice missing Oxford commas in the text. I begin to think eborah Netolicky thought over commas and hyphens, or about the work I’ve now projected that the submission of her the lack of commas and hyphens. out into the­­­­ world. I remember PhD was the end, but now Wonder why I’m so unable to let go how non-traditional my thesis is. ­­­­D That it was risky. That some might she realises that it is just the of a document that I’ve been told beginning. is done. My husband takes me to be inspired by my novel approach I really didn’t think that the very lunch on the coast on a glorious and others bemused or horrified. pointy end of my PhD, once I knew day. I drink a Bellini. We “cheers” to I reflect on how I have attempted that my thesis amendments had the thesis being done. to push at the boundaries of what been approved by my supervisors, Monday: Dean signs off on an acceptable thesis is. I’ve worked would be complex. Surely there my thesis. It’s through. Accepted. within the accepted parameters of would be a quiet moment of joy Officially done. I jump up and down. a thesis (introduction, literature, followed by the pop of a champagne Whooping. Air-punching. Triumph. method, results, discussion; cork? Well, I was right about the Tuesday: I’m still tinkering some use of the distant academic champagne, but the last week with the already-approved thesis. voice). But I’ve also challenged has been more of a roller coaster I’m haunted by nightmares and the traditional thesis genre by than I imagined. It turns out that daydreams of mistakes existing embracing creativity, shifting finishing a doctorate is wound up somewhere in the 300-page Academic procession during a past TU-K graduation ceremony voices and a literary lens as a way in some messy identity-entangled document despite it being checked to make meaning. I wonder how feelings. Here, I try to give a sense by me, two supervisors and three my attempt to create a text that of what that looked and felt like for examiners. Impossible obsession will live on the library shelf (maybe my feelings of emptiness and Elation again. Pride. And then the compels and propels the reader me. with checking over and over. And never to be opened). Anxiety strangeness. Responses come: yes, crack of the imposter syndrome will be received now that it lives My week’s diary of PhD over. I keep reminding myself the builds as I worry that this final the mourning, the crash, the void. whip. I hadn’t felt it until now. I outside of my laptop and my head. completion went something like thesis has been signed off. It is copy means there can be no more Others have felt this, too. I head was perfectly comfortable being a I’m comforted by accepted journal this: tinkering. I am overwhelmed by the out for dinner and champagne. PhD candidate. An eager student. articles and conference papers Friday: Supervisors sign off on pressure of printing the tangible Company helps and I’m reminded A work in progress. Of course, I that affirm that my work fits the amended thesis. Form goes “It turns out that finishing final pages. It’s a relinquishing of that – without lab partners, a am still a neophyte. A partially- somewhere. I breathe. The ride continues. Maybe soon, to the dean for university sign- a doctorate is wound up control. If there are errors, they writing group or colleagues at formed apprentice scholar. I realise will be inked there for eternity. I the university – my journey is I’m almost doctored, but feel I’ll grow into the robes. off. Elation. Excitement. Light can in some messy identity- be seen at the end of the tunnel. feel increasingly ill as I print and mostly in my head. I’ve been the unworthy of the title. I know I’ve Deborah Netolicky is a teacher Hugs. Champagne. I tell my kids. entangled feelings” check the final copies of my thesis. working mama who comes and worked hard for this. My family has of English and literature at an My 5-year-old shouts “Wooohooo! I take the box of printed pages in goes from uni in a blinding flash, both sacrificed and benefited from Australian school, where she also No more PhD!” I remember that I’ve to the university and submit them working mostly alone, often in my doing the PhD; we’ve lived it. leads a coaching intervention been doing this most of their lives considered doctorate-worthy. I to the library to be sent for final the night. It’s good to be out, and I know I’ve walked the path that for teacher growth. She studied (they were six months and two save the document as a PDF to binding. I drive to pick up sick child to talk about it. And to talk about for her PhD–Down the rabbit years old when I started; now they stop myself from my compulsive from school; no time to savour other things to forget about it. hole: Professional identities, are 4 and 5). tinkering. I sneak another peek. the moment. I upload the thesis Thursday: I get word that “I know I’ve worked professional learning, and change in one Australian school – at Saturday and Sunday: OK, maybe more than one. document to the university library. my thesis is online. There it is, a hard for this. My family Fall into a heap of exhaustion and citation with my name on it, and a Murdoch University. Her thesis Checking and rechecking the Wednesday: Wake with a has both sacrificed and thesis, especially the amendments. cracking headache, knowing that hollowness. It’s the thesis finishing downloadable document. My thesis was completed this month and her I fully proof the first and last today is the day I print the final final comedown, an emotional and title in black and white. My words benefited from my doing doctorate will be conferred in April. chapters, line by line, punctuation final copies for permanent binding energetic crumbling, a descent out of my head and into the world. the PhD; we’ve lived it” This post originally appeared on mark by punctuation mark. Obsess (buckram cloth! gold letters!). One into the post-thesis abyss. I tweet My work now in the public realm. her blog.

30 December 2016 December 2016 31 International News International News Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka: MEGA FRENCH VARSITY ‘I wanted to smash bust of Churchill’ that he recognised the extreme IN THE OFFING difficulty faced by Oriel, as Rhodes has been woven into the fabric of The university professor and former the university for decades. political prisoner compares his own “His name is synonymous with iconoclastic impulses to Rhodes Rhodes scholarships, so it is far magine the chagrin of French Harvard or the Massachusetts the HEC Paris business school and Must Fall movement more complex than many people universities whenever Institute of Technology (MIT). the National Centre for Scientific Wole Soyinka recalls the moment see,” he said, adding that Oriel is a international rankings are The university, south of Paris, is Research (CNRS). he came face to face with what “British college and they can have published. But what about planned as a hi-tech «knowledge Getting into the top end of the he saw as a symbol of colonial the symbols they choose”. Ithe French, with their centuries hub» to drive the French economy. league tables is not the purpose oppression on campus. “The history of Britain is not mine, of scholarship and ancient Dominique Vernay, the president of of the investment, he says. But it As a visiting fellow at Churchill and they are entitled to preserve institutions? There was a university this new university, says that within would be an important indicator College, Cambridge in the mid- symbols that are negative to me,” in Paris before Oxford or Cambridge. a decade he wants Paris-Saclay to of how France can create a much 1970s, the renowned Nigerian he said. As part of a huge government- be among the top ranking world more concentrated and globally dramatist and poet would pass a Professor Wole Soyinka Indeed, Professor Soyinka is driven academic and economic universities. competitive research base. bust of Winston Churchill on the far more critical of his own native project, there will be a new In university rankings, big is The big idea is to create a college staircase each day. months, students repelled by Nigeria for its failure to confront university called Paris-Saclay, beautiful, and the Paris-Saclay “knowledge hub” around Paris, “Each time I came down the what they see as similar symbols unpleasant aspects of its own with a campus south of the French will have 70,000 students and bringing together top-level stairs and saw that bust, I had an of racism and imperialism have not history – not least the memorials capital. The project has initial 10,000 researchers. There will be universities with research overwhelming urge to push it down sought to sublimate or repress such to the notorious former president funding of 7.5bn euros (£5.9bn) an emphasis on graduate courses institutes, hi-tech businesses and and see it crash,” said Professor feelings. Since the Rhodes Must Fall Sani Abacha, who is alleged to have for an endowment, buildings and and recruiting more international start-ups. Soyinka, who in 1986 became the movement began at the University stolen about £5 billion from his transport links. students and staff. The classic example of such a first black African to win the Nobel of Cape Town in March 2015 in country, as well as having forced The French government is The idea of bringing together project would be Silicon Valley Prize for Literature. protest against the continued Professor Soyinka into exile in the bringing together 19 institutions individual colleges into a «federal in California where Stanford “Churchill was representative presence on campus of a statue of 1990s after he was accused of into a single structure, with the aim university» has been borrowed University has been the launchpad of British imperialism – he was colonial ruler Cecil Rhodes, students treason. of building a university big enough from the UK. for firms such as Google and quite insistent that what Britain “I was talking to [current to compete with global giants like Hewlett Packard. had in Africa it should hold,” added “Churchill was Nigerian] President [Muhammadu] Harvard or the Massachusetts The big idea is to create a But in this industrial geography Professor Soyinka in an interview representative of British Bahari and asked him, ‘Why is a Institute of Technology (MIT). of the internet age, with the major street in Nigeria still named “knowledge hub” around with Times Higher Education. imperialism – he was The top places are invariably emergence of these academic- Speaking at Soas, University after the greatest thief, torturer filled with the US and UK academic Paris, bringing together industrial complexes, Paris has of London, where he had been quite insistent that what and reprobate our country has ever powerhouses. And then coming top-level universities been falling behind. interviewed by its director Baroness Britain had in Africa it seen?’” said Professor Soyinka. up fast are the ambitious Asian with research institutes, “The essence of the plan is that Amos for the college’s Centenary should hold,” “He seemed surprised and said universities. But what about hi-tech businesses and we are missing growth in France. It’s it had never occurred to him, so the French, with their centuries not the big companies, what we’re Lecture series, Professor Soyinka —Professor Soyinka start-ups. explained how those encounters I replied, ‘You are campaigning of scholarship and ancient missing is the new technology, with Churchill’s bust inspired what against corruption, yet you are institutions? There was a university those small companies that grow many view as his greatest play, across the world have mobilised teaching young people that a major in Paris before Oxford or Cambridge. «Our model isn’t that far from the very fast and become new players,” Death and the King’s Horseman. to call for the removal of other street can be named after you if you French universities are conspicuous Oxbridge model,” he says. said Mr Vernay. The 1975 drama was based on a politically charged statues, plaques are corrupt,’” he added. by their absence. To put it into scale, Mr Vernay says “We need to strengthen the real incident in 1946 in which a and honours. Still hailed as a powerful force in As part of a huge government- Paris-Saclay is going to be twice the links with industry, strengthen our colonial district officer intervened Professor Soyinka described the Nigerian politics and cultural life, driven academic and economic size of the University of California, ability to launch start-ups.” to prevent a local man committing movement as “understandable” Professor Soyinka – who spent 28 project, there will be a new Berkeley, one of the flagships of the The president says that the Paris- ritual suicide. and said that authorities should months behind bars as a political university called Paris-Saclay, US university system. Saclay project should be seen as “I eventually sublimated those think hard about whether to retain prisoner in the 1960s, including 22 with a campus south of the French Without any extra investment, he part of the next great historic wave feelings into Death and the King’s controversial symbols, such as the months in solitary confinement – also capital. The project has initial says that the existing component of French higher education. Horseman,” said Professor Soyinka, small statue of Rhodes above the spoke of his debt to Britain, from his funding of 7.5bn euros (£5.9bn) parts of the university will put The grand ecole that produced who has held professorships at entrance to Oriel College, Oxford. childhood obsession with the novels for an endowment, buildings and Paris-Saclay straight into the top 20 the scientists and administrators Nigeria’s University of Ibadan and “If decolonisation is to be of Charles Dickens to his time as a transport links. of the Shanghai global university for Napoleon’s empire were very University of Ife (now known as fundamentally embraced by Britain student at the University of Leeds in The French government is rankings. successful specialist institutions. Obafemi Awolowo University), as and if it is to show some level the 1950s under the supervision of bringing together 19 institutions It will inherit staff with Nobel And investment after World War well as visiting academic posts at of contrition [for its imperialist the great Shakespearean scholar G. into a single structure, with the aim Prizes and some very well- Two supported more research in the universities of Harvard, Yale history], they should not have these Wilson Knight .” of building a university big enough established founding partners, specialist areas, such as nuclear and Oxford. kind of symbols,” he said. First published by Times Higher to compete with global giants like including the Ecole Polytechnique, power. In contrast, over the past 18 However, Professor Soyinka said Education in November 2016

32 December 2016 December 2016 33 International News International News

Teach students academic writing or DONS blame ‘vindictive’ students endanger degree completion: study for poor course evaluations

Higher Education Research & anxiety was still present for female Development journal, looked at 174 graduate students”. students participating in Promoting Elsewhere, the study found that niversities should make it a Outstanding Writing for Excellence students for whom English was not Badly rated teachers more likely to priority to equip graduate in Research (POWER) programmes, their first language had “statistically distrust data, Israeli study finds students with academic created by UNLV in 2007 to provide significant higher writing anxiety writing skills or they run emotional and instrumental support and lower self-efficacy compared to o resentful students get Uthe risk of greater numbers failing for graduate students who wish to native English speakers”. their own back on teachers to complete master’s courses and improve their academic writing. “International students also by giving them lower marks PhDs, according to the author of While the researchers noted that showed statistically significant in course evaluations? If new research. DIsraeli academics are to be believed, the study was not “generalisable lower self-efficacy than In her co-authored paper to all graduate students in higher students who reported not to be they do. “Graduate students as academic education”, the findings “contribute international,” it states. A survey of 2,241 scholars working writers: writing anxiety, self- to the limited research on graduate Professor Huerta said in the country’s higher education efficacy and emotional intelligence”, students and academic writing and universities believe that they are institutions found that nearly three- Margarita Huerta, assistant can inform present practitioners supporting international students quarters (73 per cent) believed professor of educational and and future researches in varied by providing “editing services” that students used evaluations in a clinical studies at the University of settings”. or English language courses, but vindictive manner, while more than Students in class Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), found warned that there was “a lot more” half (52 per cent) thought that low- that lack of “self-efficacy” (belief in to mastering academic writing than achieving undergraduates tended to felt that their teaching ability was to draw on alternative sources of one’s capability to write in a given a command of English. give lower scores. underrated were significantly more information about teaching quality, situation) was a significant reason “Writing ‘correct’ English is A significant minority (37 per likely to question the validity of such as peer assessments, alongside for writing anxiety among students merely one piece of the bigger cent) felt that course evaluations evaluations. course evaluations. studying for a master’s or doctoral puzzle of supporting graduate led to grade inflation, although more Overall, 37.5 per cent of “In many cases course evaluations degree. students’ academic writing,” respondents (45 per cent) disagreed respondents felt that they were are the only tool that management The researchers conclude that she said. “Schools/HE sectors with this statement. underrated, while 48 per cent felt has to get information about the it is in universities’ “best interest” should not assume all non-native Lead author Ronen Hammer, head that there was no gap between performance of faculty members, that students are given tools English speakers’ writing skills of the teaching improvement centre evaluations made by students and and it is the major tool faculty to allow them to “successfully are necessarily lower than native at Holon Institute of Technology, said by themselves. Only 14.5 per cent members have to receive feedback,” communicate ideas and innovation speakers’ writing skills. that the findings were concerning he said. in writing”. Professor Huerta told “While some may struggle with because, regardless of whether or “I think faculty members would Times Higher Education that degree writing skills, many may have very not these assumptions were correct, “In many cases course feel better if it was not so exclusive completion rates could fall if these strong writing skills. Non-native the fact that they were so widely evaluations are the only and if there were additional sources believed raised questions about of information for assessing their issues were not addressed. English speakers may just have tool that management “Most graduate student writers more writing anxiety because of whether academics would engage performance.” come into academia without the lack of initial confidence and other with evaluation scores in order to has to get information The survey, which is the subject knowledge and skills of how to external/cultural factors.” improve their teaching. about the performance of of a forthcoming journal article, handle large, complex academic Universities should therefore In the survey, 55 per cent of faculty members, and it did find some positive views about writing projects; therefore, look to improve self-efficacy respondents said that course is the major tool faculty course evaluations. Sixty-three per evaluations “lack reliability and cent of respondents said that the lowering their self-efficacy,” she among all their graduate students members have to receive said. “The consequences are by teaching “self-management validity”, while 56 per cent said that data help them to identify weak potentially slower graduation rates, skills related to piecing together students were “too immature” to feedback.” aspects of their teaching, and 51 per larger numbers of incomplete academic writing projects”. assess teaching quality. cent said that they trusted students’ degrees and non-published theses/ The paper also found that “This is why peer- Opinion was split over evaluations. dissertations.” “females exhibited higher writing led writing support services whether students’ ratings were of academics felt that students Forty-eight per cent of The growing expectation for anxiety”, which Professor Huerta hold tremendous potential if unreflective of actual learning overrated their ability. respondents felt that student students to have “journal article suggested could be linked to implemented well within university (43 per cent agreeing and 45 per Dr Hammer, who conducted the evaluations should be a factor in publications prior to graduation” wider gender inequality in higher structures,” she said. cent disagreeing) and whether research in 20 institutions with Eyal decisions relating to promotion and was increasing the pressure on education. She added that it evaluations were a popularity Pe’er of Bar-Ilan University and Elisha tenure. graduate writers, she added. was “concerning that even in the First published by Times Higher contest (41 per cent agreed, 48 per Babad of the Hebrew University The research, published in the presence of self-efficacy, writing Education cent disagreed). of Jerusalem, said that the results First published by Times Higher Interestingly, academics who suggested a need for managers Education

34 December 2016 December 2016 35 SPORT SPORT

JOYCE Nyaruai tops team in global CHESS TOUNERMENT HELD IN BAKU

TU-K’s hockey team TU-K Hockey Team Smash Daystar Nyaruai pose for a picture next to a scoreboard after playing Sandford Nyaruai (front right) for Kenya in action against an oponent from Barbados Segan of Barbados to Qualify for National League oyce Nyaruai, scored the highest he Technical University of points leading a team of four Kenya beat Daystar University in the just conclude global 42nd J to top the 2016 Kenya Hockey Olympiad games in Baku, Azerbaijan, T Union Men’s Championship. Eastern Europe. The final match sealed their lead The third year student at TU-K with a final 24-point defeating pursuing a Bachelors degree opponents 5-0 to qualify for the in Electrical and Electronic National League Championship. Engineering, dominated majority of The Hockey Union competition her games with an aggregate of six brought together 11 teams drawing point five points out of seven in the from universities across the country seven games she played. One of the and clubs to battle it out. They games was a walkover. included Multimedia University, Nyaruai is a WCM holder, a Dedan Kimathi University of recognition title in Chess rankings. Technology, Kabarak University, The team posted excellent results Karate Club, Wazalendo Youth, Impala inspite of the travel challenges that among others. delayed their departure for four TU-K received the trophy at City days into the competitions that TU-K’s hockey team celebrate after winning the Hockey Championship Nyaruai (Left) with Kenyan teamates tour Baku city. Park on Sunday November 27, the began on September 1. ground on which they played Daystar displayed a professional game. “We appreciate TU-K through the Like her colleagues, the overall Baku secured their tickets from midway but landed with a bang during their final match. “Our target at the beginning of Sports and Regulations Department games Nyaruai were expected to independent sponsors. The host thrashing competitors including our TU-K’s scorers were Gideon the season was a top five finish for facilitating the team all through, play were 11, she completely missed secured accommodation and neighbours Uganda who have been Kimuge, Nimrod Bisonga, Leonard and this has totally surpassed our we are prepared to achieve much four of them. movement in the Olympiad village. our major regional rival.s” Marwa, Luckie Mwendwa and skipper expectation. The lads should savour better results in the next season,” Travel sponsorship arrangements “From my qualification to Besides the game, the team Moses Obushuru. the moment because they fully added Simiyu. by Chess Kenya that would have seen Olympiad, I vowed to clinch the toured the city’s historic sites, Kimuge opened the firing in the deserve it after their impressive TU-K Hockey team has in the Kenya’s team of ten both men and Women FIDE Master, a prestigious cultural events among them second minute to the game and in the performance this season,” the team’s past posted excellent results in women participate in the bi-annual chess title. Travel challenges Bermuda Party, a celebration 11th minute, Bisonga gave it another coach Alex Nyawira said. competitions including Kenya Olympiad games were shot down however messed my personal organised by the host to crown the shot past Daystar keeper Dennis Nyawira said discipline, hard work Universities Sports Association leaving only four players to travel. target,” she noted. Olympiad. Amadi. and endurance carried the team games (KUSA). Air ticket sponsors pulled out in Nyaruai said the team’s spirit was “The global games were well Team Manager Simiyu Nyaranga through the season and are now the last minute. The four female not dampened by the challenges, organised and professionally praised the boys saying they ready for the big league. players who managed to travel to “We went into competition handled,” Nyaruai noted.

36 December 2016 December 2016 37 SPORT HUMOUR The Simon Makonde Phenomenon WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS Seriously Kenyan speaking TU-K FC rules the roost and leaves other teams in awe Back in the day, when I was only repercussion is that you will most an idea, what if we treated each in Primary school, I remember definitely end up being the best of the day of the week as a Friday and not reciting about this character called worst and the worst of the best since rush through the rest of the week in he Technical University of Simon Makonde. I can’t really you u are not at your personal best. anticipation for Friday then we would Kenya Football Club (TU-K recall how the story flowed but I have been saying TGIM/T/W/T..? FC) are the champions of remember, Makonde, was born on When you are a Makonde, you want the inaugural SportPesa Su- Monday and died on a Saturday. to accomplish too much within a I recently attended a Youth Tper Eight Champions league. TU-K short span.Some have however done Empowerment conference in the FC cruised past a resilient Jericho That part I can’t forget. In a stint just that: achieved a lot in a short City.The highlight of the conference All Stars with a convincing 3-1 win between Tuesday to Saturday, he span: I don’t deny, there’s always was a keynote speech by a Guest during the exciting final staged at went to school, married and got sick…! an exception to each “rule”. Others Speaker. As usual, in such youth a fully packed Nyayo National Sta- on the other hand have put onto empowerment fora, they call in some dium on November 6. In the short span that was his themselves undue pressure and of these old grey haired chaps to TU-K FC who won last year’s life,Simon Makonde accomplished stress trying to make it: some have come stir young minds to “action”. SportPesa Super 8 Premier League what most people take a lifetime to faked to make it. The guy as anticipated went on and came into the match as pre-match accomplish. But then again, maybe The Makondeism is manifest in our on about ..ooh its time the youth favourites and lived up to the ex- the author of the Makonde story workplaces. We strive to elevate our take over …, it’s your time,…you are pectations to claim the trophy and had something else in mind when positions at work by geting ahead at the future…blah..blah..yawn..heard the Sh500,000 winners prize. Jeri- he put his life span to within a week. all costs. Again, nothing wrong with it before! But just as I was about to cho received Sh250,000 for finish- Perhaps, a week in Makonde’s life that. However, we step on the toes of doze off, I heard the old man refer to ing runners-up. could have been 20 years, 50 years,… our colleagues, stab them in the back “us” as the “Microwave Generation”..! The West Conference big-shots heck who knows, maybe even were again on the path to glo- 100 years! But at age 8/9 years He went on to explain that ry in the clash billed as West vs when I was reading this, I couldn’t the youth want things done in East final, after failing to defend Short story of SIMON MAKONDE comprehend what I do now. In microwave speed. They have no their Sportpesa Super 8 premier my infant thinking, a week was a time to appreciate the details league title, which Kayole Asubuhi TU-KFC celebrate after winning SportPesa 2016 tournament Simon Makonde was born on Monday week and I will stick to that analogy. of history and reason: reading walked away with in September. He was baptised on Tuesday in between the lines and the After winning the 9th edition a corner. Jericho who seemed to hapless goalkeeper Paul Maina. Any He got married on Wednesday Makonde epitomises a “perfect” footnotes that go with the subject of the SportPesa Super 8 Soccer be under pressure from their noisy hopes of a Jericho comeback were, He got sick on Thursday life for a perfect human being. A matter. For once,I concurred. Tournament in 2015 in style, TU-K fans, upped the antennae in search however thwarted when Uyoga, He went to hospital on Friday life without the stress & strife of were left immensely devastated af- of an equaliser but their efforts the leading scorer with 16 goals, He died on Saturday recession. A life perfected and A Makonde always looks for an ter failing to retain the title in Sep- were heavily thwarted by TU-K’s collected a loose ball from the cen- He was buried on Sunday. mastered at the blueprint. But easy way out. Everywhere you tember, even though the stakes had well drilled backline. ter of the field and made a dazzling then again, if my memory is doing look in the society you will find been raised astronomically after Sensing Jericho’s nervousness, run before sending a thunderbolt me justice, I think he got sick on a a Makonde. Be it the matatu the tournament achieved league TU-K increased the pressure and past the opposition’s goalkeeper Thursday and was taken to hospital on to gain favour from our bosses and driver who throws caution to the status, thus becoming the SportPe- got their reward as Jeconiah Uyoga Eric Ogwenda. a Friday,I gues he had his own strife. reinforce promotion chances. wind and dangerously swaves onto sa Super 8 Premier League (SPS8 made a brilliant run in the left wing “The match was tough but we I find it disturbing the way people the pavement to avoid the traffic PL), thanks to a sponsorship deal before feeding Emmanuel Ateti were able to contain our opponents Ok, where im I going with this? have this misplaced notion that jam, to the traffic policeman at between Extreme Sports Limited, who scored. and emerge winners. I congratulate Well,I was drawing from this Monday is the blacklisted day of the the traffic lights waiting for a the company that runs the league Eddie Kuria would net Jericho’s my players for clinching the title,” analogy how most people week. If you want to see what I mean: handout to a lady who put on and sponsors SportPesa. only goal in the 86th after he found said TU-K head coach Aluoch. live a Makonde shell life. just check on your previous social weaves because their hair is whack. Coached by Mr Lukas Aluoch and himself unmarked inside TU-K’s box Coach Francis Oduor: I am elated status updates; be it on facebook or assisted by Francis Oduor, TU-K to fire home a strong shot past a by the win because we failed to de- Everyone wants to become twitter and those of your friends with I do believe patience is a virtue: but have demonstrated why they de- fend our league title in September. I significant in life. It Is an inner desire regards to Mondays. Get my point? with the Makonde phenomenon serve the West Conference Kings want to thank the players for play- which every human being deeply clawing in every day,it seems like tag. On their way to the final, they “TU-K FC train every day ing according to script during this do harbours within them. I believe no On the flipside, Friday is the most it’s going the dinosaur way. I can beat Meltah Kabiria 5-4 in the in the evening and their or die match. Our zeal and determi- one enjoys the humiliation of failure happening day of the week. Infact testify that surely good things semi-finals of the SPS8 Champions nation to win has finally paid off.” dreaded striker Jeconiah or the frustration of a mediocre research has shown that stress levels come to those who wait in patience, League as a result that earned them His opposite number Thomas Uyoga has been one of standard of life: we all want more reduce 90% on Fridays than any reverence and humbleness. Life is a ticket to the final. Okongo blamed his teams wasteful- their main weapons of enriching experiences of life. other day of the week. Not to mention compounded with ups and down After a goalless first half, TU-K ness. ‘I want to congratulate our op- how glorified the day is: TGIF, Furahi- and nothing comes easy. The best opened the scoring in the 53rd min- destruction. Uyoga is the ponents for their win and I think had But then again mediocricity sets day, where are we hooking up-day,T things in life are the ones you enjoy ute through Calvin ‘Marcelo’ Odhi- clubs leading scorer with my boys capitalised on the many in when you begin to compare and oa mpango-day, Kanywaji wapi-day... once you have stuggled for them. ambo who rose high to head in Ste- chances they created, we would 26 goals” rate yourself with the standards or (well actually I made up the last vens Odhiambo superb cross from have won,” said Okongo. performance levels of others.The three, but you get the point?) I have By Kenyan Scribe

38 December 2016 December 2016 39 DIRECTORS OF ACADEMIC UNITS AND SCHOOLS TU-K ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES MASTERS DEGREE COURSES • Applied Biology Master of Science in Applied Statistics • Biotechnology (Industrial and Medical) DIRECTORS OF FACULTY OF ENGINEERING FACULTY OF ENGINEERING SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY Master of Science in Mathematical Statistics • Food Science and Technology ACADEMIC UNITS Master of Science in Mathematics (Pure or Applied Mathematics) • Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation Master of Technology in Applied Parasitology • Environmental Biology Master of Science in Forensic Biochemistry • Wildlife Conservation and Management Master of Philosophy in Applied Parasitology Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry Master of Science in Applied Parasitology Bachelor of Technology in Community and Public Health Masters of Technology in Environmental Resource Management Bachelor of Technology in Community and Public Health Master of Technology (Mechanical Engineering) Bachelor of Philosophy in Medical Laboratory Technology Master of Arts in Entrepreneurship Bachelor of Technology in Medical Laboratory Technology Master of Business Administration Bachelor of Science (Nutrition and Dietetics) Master of Applied Linguistics Bachelor of Technology in Nutrition and Dietetics Director: Prof. Sylvester Masu Director: Prof. Stephen Musyoki Director: Prof. Thumbi Director: Prof. Reuben O. Marwanga Director: Prof. Gordon O. Masters of Science in Information and Knowledge Management Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science Wayumba Masters of Science in International Relations Prof. Fiona Mbai SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE SCHOOL OF ELECTRICAL AND SCHOOL OF INFRASTRUCTURE SCHOOL OF MECHANICAL AND Bachelor of Commerce (Options): AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING AND RESOURCE ENGINEERING PROCESS ENGINEERING Master of Music in Music Education or African Music Studies Director, Research and SCHOOL OF SURVEYING AND • Accounting Master of Musical Arts in Composition or Performance Knowledge Exchange Department of Architecture and Department of Electrical and Department of Civil and Department of Aerospace and GEOSPATIAL SCIENCES • Finance Environmental Design Power Engineering Construction Engineering Aviation Engineering • Business Management Department of Geodetic Science and BACHELOR’S DEGREE COURSES Department of Building Science and Department of Department of Biosystems and Department of Chemical and Navigation • Human Resource Management Technology Telecommunications and Environmental Engineering Petroleum Engineering Bachelor of Technology (Quantity Surveying) Department of Geoinformation and • Marketing Management Department of Real Estate and Information Engineering Department of Mining and Department of Industrial and Earth Observation Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management) • Logistics and Supply Chain Management Property Management Department of Electronics and Minerals Engineering Manufacturing Engineering Department of Land Administration Bachelor of Technology (Building Construction) Computer Engineering • Entrepreneurship Department of Spatial Planning Department of Engineering Mechanical and Mechatronic and Information Bachelor of Real Estate and Design Department of Automation and Economics and Management Engineering Department of Surveying Science and • Insurance Control Engineering Technology Bachelor of Real Estate Bachelor of Quantity Surveying • Procurement and Supplies Mgt. Bachelor of Philosophy in: • Information Systems FACULTY OF APPLIED SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY • Geoinformation Technology • Operations Management • Surveying Technology Bachelor of Business Commerce Prof. Joseph Lala Bachelor of Engineering in Geospatial Engineering Bachelor of Science in Accountancy Director, School of Graduate Bachelor of Applied Science in Geo-Informatics Bachelor of Science in Accountancy & Advanced Studies Bachelor of Technology: Bachelor of Technology (Business Information Technology) • Geoinformation Technology Bachelor of Technology (Business Information Technology) • Surveying Technology Bachelor of Technology in Office Administration and Technology Bachelor of Science Land Administration Bachelor of Technology in Office Administration and Technology Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Bachelor of Science in Information Science Bachelor of Technology in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology Bachelor of Technology in Information Studies Director: Prof. Dorcas Yole Director: Prof. Patrick J. Ogao Director: Prof. Alfred Orina Director: Prof. Thomas Onyango Director: Prof. Paul Baki Bachelor of Technology in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology Bachelor of Technology in Journalism and Mass Communication SCHOOL OF BIOLOGICAL AND Bachelor of Technology in Journalism and Mass Communication SCHOOL OF COMPUTING AND SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND SCHOOL OF PHYSICAL SCIENCES Bachelor of Engineering-Civil Engineering LIFE SCIENCES Bachelor of Science Counseling Psychology INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES AND TECHNOLOGY ACTUARIAL SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY Bachelor of Technology-Civil Engineering Department of Applied and Technical Bachelor of Engineering in Aeronautical Engineering Bachelor in International Relations and Diplomacy Biology Department of Computer Science and Department of Biomedical Sciences and Department of Pure and Applied Department of Chemical Science & Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) Bachelor in International Relations and Diplomacy Dr. Eric Ogur Department of Biochemistry and Technology Technology Mathematics Technology Director, Centre for Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering Bachelor of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management Biotechnology Department of Information Systems and Department of Community and Public Department of Industrial and Department of Geography and Earth Bachelor of Technology in Design Engineering, Innovations & Technology Health Engineering Mathematics Science Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering Department of Ecology and Bachelor of Technology in Design Production Conservation Biology Department of Computational Science Department of Human Nutrition and Department of Statistics and Actuarial Department of Materials Science and Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering Technology Bachelor of Music Department of Food Science and and Technology Dietetics Science Technology Bachelor of Philosophy in Technology (Applied Statistics) Technology Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Department of Physics and Space Science Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Bachelor of Music and Technology Bachelor of Technology in Applied Statistics Bachelor of Philosophy in Technology (Printing) Bachelor of Technology In: (Options) Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management • Computer Technology Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Travel Management Bachelor of Technology in Tourism and Travel Management FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY • Information Technology Bachelor of Technology in Hotel and Restaurant Management • Communication and Computer Networks Bachelor of Technology in Institutional Catering and Accommodation Bachelor of Technology In: (Options) Management • Computer Technology Bachelor of Science in Event and Convention Management • Information Technology • Communication and Computer Networks. DIPLOMA COURSES Dr. Patrick Dikkir Bachelor of Technology in Applied Chemistry (Industrial Chemistry) Director, Centre for Science Diploma in Technology – Civil Engineering and Technology Studies Bachelor of Philosophy in Technology in Applied Chemistry (Analytical Diploma in Technology (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) Option) Diploma in Technology: Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Resource Management • Geoiformation Technology Director: Dr Eljyoy Micheni Director: Prof. Odoch Pido Director: Prof. Richard Makopondo Director: Prof. Peter Matu Director: Dr. Benson Ateng Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Science • Surveying Technology Bachelor of Technology: Technical and Applied Physics SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY AND SCHOOL OF INFORMATION AND Diploma in Technology (Mechanical Engineering – Options: SCHOOL OF CREATIVE ARTS AND SCHOOL OF SOCIAL AND Bachelor of Philosophy In: MANAGEMENT STUDIES TECHNOLOGIES TOURISM STUDIES COMMUNICATION STUDIES DEVELOPMENT STUDIES • Manufacturing Engineering • Applied Biology • Industrial Plant and Energy Engineering Department of Accounting and Finance Department of Design and Creative Media Department of Event and Leisure Department of Information and Department of Criminology and • Biotechnology (Industrial and Medical Options) Management Knowledge Management • Automotive and Autotronic Engineering Department of Business Administration Department of Music and Performing Arts Legal Studies • Food Science & Technology and Management Department of Hospitality and Department of Journalism and Media • Structural Fabrication and Metallurgical Engineering Department of Fashion and Textile Technology Department of Economics and Bachelor of Technology In: Department of Entrepreneurship and Institutional Management Studies Resource Management • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering: Department of Printing and Media Technology • Applied Biology Technology Management Department of Tourism and Travel Department of Language and Department of Governance and • Mechatronic Engineering Management Communication Studies Public Policy • Biotechnology (Industrial and Medical Options Department of Management and Diploma in Technology Aeronautical Engineering Business Systems Department of Human and Social • Food Science and Technology Dr Hesbon Nyagowa Diploma in Technology (Real Estate) Development Bachelor of Technology In: Registrar - Academic Diploma in Technology (Quantity Surveying)

40 December 2016 December 2016 41 ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES

Diploma in Technology (Construction Management) Diploma in Business Studies Options: Diploma in Technology (Building Construction) • Business Administration Diploma in Technology Architecture • Human Resource Management Diploma in Technology: (Options) • Sales and Marketing Management • Applied Statistics • Procurement and Supply Chain Management • Actuarial Science Diploma in Accountancy Diploma in Environmental Resource Management Diploma in Office Administration: Diploma in Technology: Technical and Applied Physics • Legal Secretarial Diploma in Technology in Analytical Chemistry • Medical Secretarial Diploma in Technology in Industrial Chemistry • Business Secretarial Diploma in Technology In: (Options) • Foreign Language Secretarial • Computer Technology Diploma in Community and Public Health • Information Technology Diploma in Technology in Health Records and Information Technology • Communication and Computer Networks Diploma in International Relations and Diplomacy Diploma in Technology In: Diploma in Disaster Management • Industrial and Applied Biology Diploma in Legal Studies • Biotechnology Diploma in Criminology and Security Studies • Biochemistry Diploma in Social Work and Community Development • Food Science and Technology Diploma in Counseling Psychology • Ecology and Conservation Biology Diploma In Technology in Event and Convention Management Diploma Medical Laboratory Science Diploma in Technology (Dip-Tech) in Hotel and Restaurant Management Diploma in Pharmaceutical Technology Diploma in Technology (Dip-Tech) in Institutional Catering and Accommodation Diploma of Technology in Journalism and Mass Communication Management Diploma in Technology in: Diploma in Housekeeping and Front Office Management • Archives and Records Management Diploma of Technology in Tourism and Travel Management • Library and Information Technology Diploma in Technology in Printing Diploma in Technology Nutrition and Dietetics Diploma in Technology (Fashion Design) Diploma in Laboratory Technology Diploma in Music Diploma in Business Information Technology Diploma in Technology in Design Diploma in Entrepreneurship

Africa Tech 2016 participant in the Engineering workshop at TU-K

42 December 2016

The Technical University of Kenya Education and Training for the Real World

Contact Details P.O. Box 52428 - 00200, Nairobi-Kenya. Tel: +254(020) 3341639/3343672/2249974/2219929/2216136 Cell: +254 732 388765 Web: www.tukenya.ac.ke Email: [email protected] Facebook: Technical University of Kenya Twitter: @TU_kenya