Milestone for Umma University as School of Engineering is launched
The new school as not only an academic milestone but also a direct investment in the country's future development.
The launch of the School of Engineering at Umma University marks a significant step towards advancing innovation and contributing to Kenya's national development agenda.
Speaking during the university's 9th graduation ceremony, former Mandera Senator Ambassador Mohamed Maalim Mohamud lauded the institution's commitment to expanding access to quality education and fostering technological advancement. He described the establishment of the new school as not only an academic milestone but also a direct investment in the country's future development.
Guests at the graduation pavilion at Umma University
In a rapidly changing world shaped by technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and climate-related challenges, Ambassador Mohamud said the School of Engineering would play a critical role in nurturing a new generation of engineers equipped with technical expertise, creativity, leadership skills, and a commitment to serving society.
"Engineering lies at the heart of human progress. Engineers design smart cities, develop transformative technologies, and build critical infrastructure that drives economic growth and improves lives," he said.
The guest of honour noted that the new school would serve as a centre of excellence where groundbreaking ideas are developed, industry and academia collaborate, and students are empowered to address the challenges of the 21st century.
"The school will serve as a centre of excellence where groundbreaking ideas are born, where industry and academia work together, and where students are empowered to provide solutions to emerging global and local challenges," he added.
Ambassador Mohamud further observed that the university's strategic location near the Athi River industrial hub positions the School of Engineering to contribute significantly to industrial growth, technological innovation, and economic development.
The School of Engineering is the latest addition to Umma University's growing portfolio of academic programmes, which include the School of Law and Sharia, School of Nursing and Midwifery, School of Business and Technology, School of Education and Social Sciences, and School of Sharia and Islamic Studies.
President William Ruto officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the School of Engineering project last year during the commissioning of the Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex.
Join Our WhatsApp Channel for Updates and Announcements
The Umma University Chancellor Ambassador Mahboob Mohamed
Related
In his remarks, the newly appointed Chancellor, Ambassador Mahboub Maalim, pledged to strengthen partnerships with government agencies, industry players, and international institutions to promote cutting-edge research, embrace digital transformation, and equip students with skills relevant to the modern workforce.
Congratulating the Class of 2026, Ambassador Mahboub encouraged graduates to uphold the values instilled by the university and remain committed to lifelong learning and innovation.
"As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, I encourage you to never stop learning, embrace innovation, pursue excellence with integrity, and create opportunities for others as you create opportunities for yourselves," he said.
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Halima Saado Abdillahi reaffirmed the university's commitment to inclusivity and leadership development. She highlighted the launch of the Umma University Women in Science and Technology (UUWST) initiative, which seeks to mentor and support girls and young women pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
"Through the launch of the Umma University Women in Science and Technology initiative, we have created a platform that mentors and supports girls and young women pursuing careers in STEM fields," she said.
Dr Halima Saado Abdillahi, the University Vice Chancellor
Dr. Halima also noted that the university continues to make a positive impact through community engagement programmes. In partnership with the KCB Foundation, Umma University has trained 350 individuals involved in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kajiado County, equipping them with practical business and management skills that promote local economic development and sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking at the event, University Registrar Dr. Hawa Omar said the institution offers scholarships through the Africa Education Development Trust, providing eligible students with financial support of up to 50 percent of tuition fees.
The graduation ceremony was held under the theme, "Excellence (Ehsan) in Education: Empowering Creative Minds for Transformative Leadership."
A total of 874 students graduated with master's and bachelor's degrees across the university's various academic schools.
Umma University holds the distinction of being the first Islamic chartered university in Kenya accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). The university is a project of Direct Aid, formerly known as the Africa Muslim Agency, and was established with the objective of providing quality, accessible, and values-based education to students from diverse backgrounds across the country.
