Mr. Joshua Coetzee making a presentation of the Company’s profile
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), has adopted cutting-edge technology as it has attracted International investors from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to construct an ultra-modern state-of-the-art Student Center. This initiative has come courtesy of the University Chairperson of Council- Dr. Pamela Sitienei who has championed global fund-raising with her partners in the UAE.
The investors; Mr. Joshua Coetzee and his counterpart Ebrahim are from ModDsys Company in Dubai which is a volumetric Modular Solutions company at the forefront of progress in construction. The company’s capabilities stretch across the entire process, from design to manufacture and project management. They utilize sophisticated, modern methods of Modular Solutions to build durable buildings of any design at any scale by deconstructing them into individual components or units to create long-standing, precisely constructed buildings that are aesthetically magnificent and ecologically positive.
The University Managers welcoming the Chairperson of the Council- Dr. Pamela Sitienei and the investors at Golf Hotel- Kakamega.
Speaking during the unveiling of the project, Dr. Sitienei expressed gratitude to partners and the entire MMUST fraternity for the support they have accorded her from the time she took over the leadership of the University Council. She noted that the interests of the students are her priority and that she is indebted to transform their lives while at MMUST.
“I reached out to my global partners in Dubai and they are here today to assess and figure out what our students require. Greater things are coming to our University. The construction of the students’ center will not cost MMUST any cash. All funds have been raised by my UAE partners. I am keen to elevate this University to greater heights!” reiterated Dr. Sitienei.
Further, Dr. Sitienei reported that through a partnership with TalentUp Africa (TUA) and Amazon Web Services (AWS), ninety students from MMUST who are set to graduate in December have been identified to undertake a training in free digital and virtual instructor-led courses from 20th November to 20th December 2023 to equip to become certified AWS Cloud Practitioners. Thereafter, they will undertake a test and those who will pass will be fast tracked to apply for the first cohort of the AWS/TUA certification boot camp in Nairobi. This will enable them to obtain further AWS certifications along with career coaching and networking activities that will see them join the direct talent pipeline for AWS clients.
The University Chairperson of the Council- Dr. Pamela Sitienei speaking at the event.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo applauded the Council Chairperson for the tremendous growth she is bringing to the University. He lauded the investors for thinking of advancements in modular building solutions at MMUST, adding that it will provide an incredible opportunity for the University to realize the dream of more accessible and resilient housing. He assured the UAE delegation that MMUST is ready for the collaboration towards shaping the future of smart modular building solutions in Kenya.
Additionally, Prof. Shibairo stated that MMUST has also procured six long bandwidth Wi-Fi hotspots that are aimed at strengthening ICT infrastructure as the University takes online learning a notch higher. The bandwidth will improve the comfort of students while accessing internet services at the campus. The other notable personalities present at the event included the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration & Finance)- Prof. John Kuria Thuo, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning Research & Innovation)- Prof. Charles Mutai, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic & Student Affairs)- Prof. Hussein Golicha, members of the University Management Board and Students leadership.
While presenting the company’s corporate profile, the Managing Director, Mr. Coetzee pointed out that Modular solutions have immensely transformed the way we approach residential and commercial constructions. From up to 50% faster construction times and greater sustainability to increased flexibility and lower project costs, the modular way offers a plethora of benefits for residential projects.
The Managing Director Moddsys, Mr. Joshua Coetzee explains a point during the event.
“At modDsys we are always striving to revolutionize the way buildings are made with our modular solutions. By harnessing the power of our Dubai-based state-of-the-art, climate-controlled production facility, we are able to transform the building process. Our approach offers greater precision and care in a controlled environment, ensuring superior quality, faster completion times and consistency every step of the way,” said Mr. Coetzee.
Acknowledging the initiative, the MMUSO President, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya commended the University Management and the investors for their commitment towards coming up with a world class student center that will promote inclusivity and allow for outside the classroom interaction for students.
“The diverse interests and lifestyles of students are reflected in numerous activities sponsored by the University. This will serve as a welcoming space for all students to socialize, relax, study, and enjoy their stay here. We appreciate you for being student centered and having students’ interests at the core of your leadership,” he said.
It is a new era for the University, and a new horizon of opportunity for our students. This envisaged state-of-the-art Student Center will increase student engagement and learning outcomes. Embracing modern and versatile teaching spaces at the University was one of the biggest highlights of discussions during this event.
By Linet Owuor
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
