UoN Leadership Appreciates and Explores Renewed Collaboration with Dr. Chandaria
The Chairperson of the University of Nairobi Council, Prof. Chacha Nyaigotti-Chacha and the Vice-Chancellor, Eng. Prof Ayub Gitau, paid a courtesy call on renowned industrialist and philanthropist Dr Manu Chandaria, , on August 13, 2026, at his residence.
The visit, which was also attended by the Dean of Students, Mr Johnson Kinyua, provided an opportunity for Prof. Gitau and Dr Chandaria to familiarise themselves with each other and strengthen the longstanding relationship between Dr Chandaria and the University of Nairobi.
The University leadership expressed appreciation to Dr Chandaria for his longstanding association with and immense contribution to the University, while exploring opportunities for renewed collaboration in areas of strategic importance to the institution.
Dr Chandaria served in the University Council for more than 20 years and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Science in Engineering during the 25th Graduation Ceremony held on 1st December 1997, in recognition of his contribution to industrialisation and business growth in Kenya.
Prof. Gitau thanked Dr Chandaria for his sustained support to the University over the years, noting his significant contribution to the development of key University facilities and initiatives.
The Vice-Chancellor specifically acknowledged Dr Chandaria's support towards the construction of the University of Nairobi Towers, his contribution to the establishment of the Chandaria Centre for Performing Arts, support for student scholarships and donations to the University of Nairobi Foundation.
Among the key areas identified for further engagement was in staff and student welfare, with particular focus on improving and strengthening the University's healthcare infrastructure through the University Health Services (UHS). This will not only improve healthcare for the University community, but also support clinical training for students and advance health research & innovation.
Prof. Nyaigotti-Chacha noted that the University values its longstanding partnership with Dr Chandaria and expressed optimism that the renewed engagement would open up new opportunities to address emerging institutional priorities and enhance the University's contribution to society.
Dr Manu Chandaria thanked the University leadership for the courtesy call, expressing his appreciation for the gesture and reiterating his longstanding relationship with the University of Nairobi. He noted the importance of strengthening the partnership and exploring new areas of collaboration that would have a lasting impact on the University community and society at large.
Dr Chandaria expressed his willingness to continue supporting initiatives that contribute to the University's growth and the welfare of its students and staff.
The engagement reaffirmed the University's commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships with individuals and organisations that share its vision of advancing excellence in education, research, innovation and community service.
The University looks forward to building on the discussions and translating the identified areas of collaboration into meaningful initiatives that will benefit students, staff and the wider University community.
