Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) proudly participated in the Speed Mentoring High Tea, themed  “Accelerate Action”, held on March 8, 2025, at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Nairobi. This prestigious event focused on “Navigating the Career Path to Excellence: Strategies for Success”  and concluded with a Dinner & Awards Ceremony that celebrated excellence, leadership, and impact in the engineering profession.

The event was hosted by the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) in collaboration with Meru University of Science and Technology, APWEN National HQ, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the University of the West of Scotland. It brought together top industry leaders and professionals to share insights on mentorship, leadership, and career growth in engineering and related fields.

Participants had the opportunity to engage in a speed mentorship session, where they connected with seasoned professionals, expanded their networks, and gained valuable career guidance. The event highlighted the significance of mentorship and leadership in shaping the future of engineering.

One of the highlights of the evening was the Awards Ceremony, where exceptional engineering students were recognized for their contributions and achievements. Among the honorees were:

Wangari Kimani – Innovating Through Internet of things (IoT)

A passionate student from the School of Engineering and Architecture, Wangari Kimani is pursuing a Bachelor of Technology in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. She has a keen interest in the intersection of technology and engineering, particularly in the Internet of Things (IoT) and its application in solving real-life problems.

Wangari recently participated in the IEK Competitions for Women in Engineering, where she showcased her expertise in the Content Creation category. Her work explored how women are driving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Her IoT-based car accident prevention system demonstrated how thoughtful engineering can create tangible solutions for communities worldwide. Her outstanding contribution earned her a Certificate of Excellence and a cash award.

Grace Ngari – Advancing AI for Mental Health

Grace Ngari, a dedicated student from the School of Computing and Informatics, is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science. Her passion lies in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its application in solving real-world challenges.

She participated in the IEK Product Innovation Competition, where she focused on SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being. Her project aimed at promoting mental health awareness among women through AI-powered mental health disease detection.

Grace’s innovative approach secured her a spot among the finalists, demonstrating the potential of AI in addressing critical health issues. She was recognized for her work with a cash award.

Purity Kerubo – Championing Renewable Energy in Construction

Purity Kerubo, a third-year student at Meru University of Science and Technology, is pursuing a Bachelor of Technology in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. She showcased her commitment to sustainable engineering through her solar-powered portable concrete mixer project.

Her project, which was recognized as the second-best innovation, provides an eco-friendly solution for small-scale construction by utilizing solar energy, making it cost-effective and accessible for communities. Purity aims to advance this project by improving its efficiency, scaling it for wider use, and integrating it into renewable energy systems. For her impressive innovation, Purity received a Certificate of Excellence and a cash award.

The Vice-Chancellor of Meru University, Prof. Romanus Odhiambo, commended the students for their outstanding achievements. He encouraged them to maintain their dedication and strive for greater success in their respective fields. He emphasized the importance of academic commitment and innovation in shaping the future of engineering and beyond.

 

The Speed Mentoring High Tea and Awards Ceremony showcased the growing influence of women in engineering and reinforced the importance of mentorship, leadership, and innovation in shaping the profession’s future.

Through their contributions, Wangari, Grace, and Purity demonstrated that women engineers are driving impactful solutions that align with global sustainability goals.

Their successes serve as an inspiration to aspiring engineers and innovators, proving that with passion, dedication, and the right support, they can achieve excellence and make a lasting impact.