Strathmore University marked a key milestone in its strategic development after the new School of Computing and Engineering Sciences was launched on 15^th September 2020. The University made the strategic decision to expand the current Faculty of Information Technology to include Engineering Sciences: This serves to enhance and integrate the natural synergies between Computing and Engineering as both subjects have strong roots in mathematics, making the expansion logical.

The launch ceremony and official opening of the computing and engineering labs, housed in a redesigned warehouse on Keri Campus, was officiated by Dr. Eng. Joseph K. Njoroge, MBS – Principal Secretary, Ministry of Energy. Speaking to the convergence of computing and engineering, Eng. Njoroge lauded the University for taking the bold step in desiring to transform the computing and engineering sector through its unique programme. In addition, he placed emphasis on the need for quality education which embraces technological advancements with a view to equipping the students for the dynamic market, which calls for versatility of skills as well as agility to keep up with the current global trends.

Representing the University Council, the Chairperson, Mrs. Bernadette Musundi said, “This event is of particular significance as it fulfils an express wish of the Chancellor of the University, Mons. Fernando Ocáriz, and that of his predecessor, Bishop Javier Echevarría. The Founder of Opus Dei, St. Josemaría Escrivá, who is the inspiration behind Strathmore considered the primary purpose of a university as its contribution towards human progress. He envisioned the University as always being at the service of contemporary society.”

The launch of the School comes at an opportune time and will be a boost not only for the Kenyan Computing and Engineering sector, but also Sub-Saharan Africa. The region is said to lack sufficient computing and engineering capacity and relies heavily on imported expertise due to —insufficient output from training institutions, poor quality education and lack of practical experience among graduates. It is to this end that the time is now ripe for Strathmore University to launch its new School positioned at the convergence of Computing and Engineering Sciences.

Speaking during the event, Prof. John Odhiambo, the Vice Chancellor noted, “This event is a milestone in the trajectory of Strathmore University as we continue to shape global professions for the future by introducing market-oriented courses, more so in a continent that has many pressing development needs that require skilled, ethical computing and engineering professionals who will greatly contribute to creating a sustainable ecosystem.”

Scholarships for top students

Dr. Elizabeth Gachenga, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs, announced that the new school is offering scholarship opportunities for the top ten students who meet the admission criteria for the upcoming electrical and electronics degree. Successful applicants will be admitted into the programme which incorporates theoretical and technical expertise; mentoring, work-based learning with linkages to industry partners and international experience which will broaden their skill set and help them establish relevant networks. “Through the novel School of Computing and Engineering, we are dedicated to transform ideas to reality with a view to developing computing and engineering experts for the future by helping our students design innovations and build real-world applications necessary to eradicate societal challenges.”

Other Council members present included Dr. Caesar Mwangi, Vice Chairperson, Dr. Susan Kibue and Mr. Fernando Aizpun.  A panel discussion themed “Convergence of Computing and Engineering” that featured top professionals was also held: Eng. Tom Olwero, Director Frequency Spectrum Management, Communications Authority of Kenya; Kendi Ntwiga – Nderitu, Country Manager, Microsoft; David Bunei, Managing Director, Oracle Kenya; John Muthiora, Principal Strathmore School; Catherine Nyambala, Chief Engineer, Quality. KenGen, and Eng. Naresh Mehta, Managing Director, Prisma Technics Ltd. Rebecca Miano, CEO, KenGen was also in attendance.

 

This article was written by Martha Ogonjo and Wambui Gachari.

 

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