Nairobi, September 19, 2025 — The University of Nairobi (UoN) today held its 73rd Graduation Ceremony at the Chancellor’s Court. Thousands of students graduated in a colorful event that drew families, dignitaries, and invited guests.
The ceremony began at 7:30 AM. It was presided over by the Chancellor and attended by the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellors, members of the Senate, and academic staff.
Proud parents and guardians joined in to celebrate the achievements of their loved ones.
The event was also streamed live on the UoN website and official social media pages. This allowed friends, alumni, and families outside Nairobi to follow the celebrations.
The hybrid format reflects UoN’s commitment to using technology to connect with a global audience.
Graduands had prepared for the day with a rehearsal held on Thursday, September 18.
The university confirmed that only students who had cleared their school fees and verified the accuracy of their names were included in the final graduation list.
All graduands were required to pay graduation and convocation fees. The charges varied depending on the level of study.
For instance, PhD and Master’s students paid KShs. 7,500, which covered graduation costs, convocation, and gown hire. Undergraduate and diploma students also paid similar structured fees.
This year’s graduation was held under the theme “Empowering Futures.” The theme underlined UoN’s vision of preparing graduates for leadership, innovation, and global opportunities.
It was also a reminder that education is not only about academic achievement but also about creating solutions for society.
Valedictorian Joy Muthoni Mwaniki delivered an inspiring speech. She urged her classmates to remain resilient, innovative, and hopeful.
She said the graduation was not the end of learning but the beginning of a bigger responsibility to society.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Prof. Ayub Gitau congratulated the graduates.
He praised their hard work and encouraged them to take advantage of opportunities in research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
He said the university would continue to uphold its mission of academic excellence and knowledge creation.
The Chancellor and Vice Chancellor also reminded graduands of their duty to be ambassadors of UoN.
They noted that the institution remains a leader in higher education, having trained thousands of professionals since its establishment in 1970.
The graduation was not just about awarding degrees. It was also a celebration of perseverance, sacrifice, and triumph. For many graduates, it marked the fulfillment of years of study, late nights, and hard work.
The day was filled with joy. Graduates in colorful gowns posed for photos. Families celebrated with hugs and applause.
Many students tossed caps into the air, marking the start of a new journey into careers, research, and leadership roles.
The University of Nairobi remains Kenya’s oldest and most respected public university. Over the decades, it has produced leaders in politics, academia, business, medicine, law, and science.
Today’s graduation added another chapter to this proud legacy.
The Class of 2025 leaves UoN empowered, inspired, and ready to contribute to national development and global progress.
