The Executive Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Professor Francis Gatheri, has urged students to embrace innovation, discipline, and a sense of environmental responsibility as they resume learning after an extended industrial action.
Prof Gatheri, was speaking during Sustainability Champions Network (SCN) Campus Eco Impact Tour, that was hosted by the Department of Physics, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, in partnership with the Sustainability Champions Network at the Lecture theatre. The event was held on 12 th November 2025 where Prof. Gatheri delivered a keynote speech. He lauded the students and staff for their resilience and readiness to resume academic activities after the prolonged closure. Reflecting on the theme of sustainability, the Executive Dean, underscored the urgent need for environmental awareness and personal accountability in combating challenges such as poor waste management and air pollution. “Take a walk around Nairobi City. It is a big slum, just walk around and see how waste is management. Even where I come from in Kiambu, you wake up one morning and find people have damped waste where we board buses. And it take a while before it’s finally collected by the County Government,” he explained. We must initiate the change. And protecting the environment begins with individual responsibility,” he emphasised. “We must all play our part if we are to secure a liveable environment for the future generation,” implored Prof Gatheri.
Further, the Executive Dean challenged students to view the green transition as an opportunity for entrepreneurship and innovation. “Many of you may not get office jobs, but you can thrive by creating your own,” he advised. “There are young innovators earning a month’s salary in a single day because they dared to think differently. That is the spirit we want to cultivate,” stressed Prof. Gatheri. The SCN Campus Eco Impact Tour served as a dynamic platform for students to connect with sustainability experts, industry leaders, and innovators.
Through interactive forums, panel discussions, and mentorship sessions, participants explored practical approaches to advancing Kenya’s green economy. The event was the result of a collaborative effort and likened inspiration between by Dr. Evans Mbao, a lecturer in the Department of Physics, Earth, and Environmental Sciences and Ms. Wanjira Magonjo the Co-Founder, Sustainability Champions Network. Dr. Lydia Olaka, the Chair, Department of Physics, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, in her remarks emphasize the importance of linking theory to practice. “Our mission is to give you skills for the real world,” said Dr. Olaka. “With access to technology and knowledge, you can create start-ups, NGOs, or innovations that respond to the environmental challenges of our time.” Students engaged in discussions around sustainable development, green careers, climate action, and technology-driven solutions. Faculty members, led by Dr. Evans Mbao, echoed the University’s dedication to producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also socially and environmentally conscious. By hosting the SCN Campus Eco Impact Tour, the University reaffirmed its leadership in driving sustainability-focused learning and industry collaboration. Apart from the students, the event was attended by senior members of faculty and officials from the Office of Dean of students led by the Dean of Students, Dr. Linnet Hamasi.
