University of Nairobi hosts Women in Engineering Students Summit 3.0

The University of Nairobi hosted the Women in Engineering Students Summit, 3rd Edition on  Friday, March 7, 2025,  The 2-day Summit that happened at the Chandaria Auditorium was hosted in preparation for International Women’s Day.

The summit was organized by the Engineering Students Association (ESA),  to bring together young women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields to showcase the invaluable contributions women have made in the STEM field.

The Summit brought together Women Leaders and students from various fields who engaged in discussions which, highlighted the importance of women in STEM. They also discussed the roles and contributions made by women in STEM and the steps that women have taken to shape the future of engineering.

They highlighted barriers that women in STEM face and explored ways to create a more inclusive and diverse STEM community.

In his speech, Prof. Francis Mulaa, the Ag DVC Research, on behalf of Vice Chancellor,  Prof. Jesang Hutchinson, encouraged women to embrace change, rise together, and innovate without fear. "Let us rise together. Let us innovate without fear,  Let us break barriers, challenge norms, and drive the wave of change. The future of engineering is inclusive, diverse, and stronger with women leading the way”.

Prof. Mulaa also spoke about the University of Nairobi's plan to create a more dynamic and inspiring engineering space in the Faculty of Engineering. "We are committed to transforming the American Wing into a vibrant and inspiring environment, especially for women in STEM". Funding has already been secured and soon, the engineering facilities will be modernized with the development of a world-class engineering and science complex expected to take shape next year.

Principal Secretary,  State Department for Higher Education and Research, Ministry of Education, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, represented by Caroline Owade, emphasized the importance of strategic action to remove barriers for women in STEM. "We must create an environment where female engineers are not just participants but key decision-makers, driving solutions for global challenges," she said.

Prof. Siphila Mumenya, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, also urged young women in STEM to step up and take their rightful place in society and be part of those making change and history. "Women are equally capable of transforming society,". She reminded students of their potential to make meaningful impacts.

Irene Ng'endo, a Software Engineer who was also crowned as Miss Universe Kenya 2024, inspired attendees to work around themselves and find their strength to work towards refining their talents and passion and  define their achievements on their terms. "Find your true measure of success," she said.

The Summit celebrated Women’s contributions to the STEM fields and also reaffirmed the University of Nairobi’s commitment to promoting positive change and supporting initiatives that foster growth and development in society.