In a world where technology meets human possibility, few stories shine brighter than that of Collins Ngeno, a man whose pursuit of excellence refuses to slow down. A visionary leader, a scholar, and now a Google PhD Fellow in Health Research (2025), Collins embodies the intersection of innovation, intellect, and impact.

Currently pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science at Strathmore University under the supervision of Dr. Henry Muchiri and Prof. Damien Hanyurwimfura, Collins joins a distinguished cohort of 255 PhD students from 35 countries selected for the 2025 Google PhD Fellowship Programme. The programme, now in its 16th year, is a global initiative supporting exceptional graduate students who advance the frontiers of computer science and related fields.

Google.org has committed over $10 million to empower this new generation of researchers who see beyond algorithms and data to envision solutions to humanity’s most complex challenges. Fellows receive dedicated funding, mentorship from Google researchers, and access to a global network of scientific leaders, nurturing innovation that resonates far beyond academia.

For Collins, this recognition is a continuation of a life defined by purpose and perseverance. As Group Technology Director at Smart Applications International, he leads technical operations across diverse sectors, including healthcare, insurance, banking, and technology. His work bridges the gap between industry and academia, demonstrating that leadership and learning can coexist and thrive in the same breath.

Collins’s academic journey is as impressive as his professional one. He is a holder of a BSc in Mathematics and Computer Science from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, an MSc in Information Systems from the University of Nairobi, and an MBA in Finance from the University of Leicester.

Yet, beyond the credentials lies a deeper calling to harness technology for the greater good of society. Technology, he believes, is only as powerful as the lives it transforms.

As Strathmore University celebrates this remarkable achievement, Collins’s story stands as a testament to the university’s spirit, where innovation, excellence, and humanity converge to shape the future of Africa and beyond.

Article written by Stephen Wakhu