MMUST Joins Discussions on Strengthening the Role of Women in Engineering as It Participates in the 1st Women Engineers Convention
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology is among the institutions that participated in the just-concluded 1st Women Engineers Convention, which took place at the Sawela Lodge in Naivasha from 29th to 30th May, 2025. The event, themed ‘Engineering Excellence in Service Delivery,’ brought together national and international professionals to celebrate and strengthen the role of women in engineering. The Convention was graced by Dr. Ida Odinga and attended by a delegation from MMUST, led by the Dean-School of Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE), Prof. Eng. Bernadette Sabuni.
The Convention, organized by the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), was initiated to respond to the need for dedicated spaces where women engineers can deliberate on issues unique to their experiences. The event was a platform for the engineers to share insights within their profession, mentor each other, and collaborate for sustainable solutions. Participants were engaged in key topics, including gender smart investing, work-life balance, financial management, legal matters affecting women as well as emerging opportunities for women engineers.
The Dean-School of Engineering and Built Environment, Prof. Eng. Bernadette Sabuni, speaks at the event.
Prof. Sabuni had the opportunity to address participants at the event, where she encouraged women engineers to believe in their abilities and carve out their spaces in the engineering sector. Notably, the Dean-SEBE was awarded a certificate of excellence in recognition for her contribution in academia as a woman engineer. Accompanying her were; Dr. Janet Oyaro (A Lecturer at the Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, Dr. Lydiah Sikinyi, (A Lecturer at the Department of Electrical and Communication Engineering), Ms. Agripina Anami (Technician) and Ms. Terry Muthoni (Marketer).
Other key personalities at the event included; Eng. Shammah Kiteme-IEK President, Hon. Harriet Chiggai-Presidential Advisor on Women’s Rights, Eng. Grace L. Onyango-Director, Capacity Building and Accreditation at the Engineers Board of Kenya and Hon. Irene Nyakerario Mayaka-Nominated Member of Parliament.
Hon. Irene Nyakerario Mayaka visits the MMUST stand at the Convention.
The Convention highlighted that there is still significant work to be done to improve the representation of women in the world of Engineering. MMUST has remained committed to nurturing and mentoring its female engineering students, aiming to ensure that they not only secure prestigious jobs but also assume leadership roles within the profession.
By Caren Nekesa and Wangari Wambugu
