M-Pesa Foundation Maseno University ICT Hub Groundbreaking Ceremony
Maseno University, in partnership with the M-Pesa Foundation, held the groundbreaking ceremony for a modern ICT Hub that is set to transform technology and innovation training in the region on 3rd October, 2025. The event was graced by Chief Guest, Senior Counsel John Ohaga, accompanied by Mr. Henry Kilonzo, Senior Manager, Programmes at Safaricom Foundation; Ms. Eunice Kibathi, Manager, Programmes; and Eng. Zachary Hampton Odhiambo. The delegation paid a courtesy call at the Vice-Chancellor’s Boardroom, where they were received by Prof. Stephen Ogendo, DVC–Administration, Finance and Development (AFD), who also chairs the project’s steering committee, representing Vice-Chancellor Prof. Julius Nyabundi.
Other University staff in attendance included Prof. Erick Nyambedha (DVC–Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Regina Nyunja (DVC–Partnerships, Research and Innovation), Dr. Calvins Otieno (Dean, School of Computing and Informatics), Dr. Doreen Othero (Project Champion and Chairperson, Department of Public Health), and Mr. Cosmas Muthamia (Ag. Director, ICT).
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In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Julius O. Nyabundi, emphasized that the Hub is far more than just a building; it is a strategic investment in human capital and a direct extension of the university's long-standing commitment to digital literacy. “For over a decade, dating back to 2013, we have made IT a compulsory and integral component of all our undergraduate programmes, irrespective of a student’s field of study,” stated Professor Nyabundi. “This new Hub will elevate this commitment from a curriculum requirement to a dynamic, real-world ecosystem.”
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The Maseno University Digital Hub is envisioned as a beacon of learning and innovation that will extend its impact beyond the university gates. It will serve not only Maseno students and staff but also the surrounding communities and local Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. The facility will offer training in essential computer packages, IT-based skills for operating Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and various other computer-related competencies crucial for the modern economy.
The partnership with the M-Pesa Foundation was hailed as a shining example of how academia and corporate entities can collaborate to drive societal transformation.
“This partnership reaffirms the value of corporate social responsibility, where businesses invest not only in markets but also in communities, in knowledge, and in people,” Professor Nyabundi said. “We are profoundly grateful to the M-Pesa Foundation for their unwavering trust and shared vision. Your commitment to education, innovation, and community development is not just inspiring; it is a transformative action that will leave a legacy visible for generations to come.”
Dr. Doreen Othero, the Project Champion, shared her inspiration drawn from a similar initiative by the M-Pesa Foundation at Meru University. She narrated how she boldly presented Maseno’s case, highlighting the University’s ICT-driven degree programmes and the urgent need for a modern hub. She urged colleagues, students, TVET institutions, and neighbouring communities to embrace the project as a shared resource for research, ideas, and startups. Dr. Othero further commended Mr. Henry Kilonzo for his unwavering support in project meetings and Eng. Amol’s team for their technical commitment.
The Vice-Chancellor also recognized the pivotal roles of two key staff members in bringing the project to life.
In his remarks, Dr. Calvins Otieno, Dean of the School of Computing and Informatics, expressed gratitude to the M-Pesa Foundation, emphasizing that the ICT Hub would significantly benefit the school, the wider university, and the surrounding community.
The M-Pesa Foundation Maseno University ICT Hub is expected to become a centre of excellence for digital learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship, aligning with Kenya’s growing demand for technology-driven solutions in education, research, and community development.