Learning and teaching activities at the University of Nairobi (UoN) will proceed uninterrupted despite a devastating fire that engulfed parts of the Gandhi Wing.
In a statement on Friday, January 17, UoN Acting Vice Chancellor Francis Mulaa said the fire extensively damaged key sections of the building, including the Senior Common Room, The Arzik Restaurant, and the Vice Chancellor's Parlour.
Mulaa noted that no injuries were reported, adding critical records and facilities housed in the building were unaffected by the blaze.
"The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our utmost priority, and we are relieved to confirm that everyone in our community is safe and accounted for. Importantly, we want to emphasize that all finance and student records housed in the affected building remain intact, as do the staff offices," he said.
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To ensure minimal disruption to students’ academic progress, Mulaa affirmed that scheduled activities, including continuous assessment tests and end-of-semester exams, will proceed as planned.
"We are committed to ensuring that the core business of the University—teaching, learning, and research—continues without interruption. This also includes already scheduled continuous assessment tests and end-of-semester exams," he added.
Mulaa also commended emergency responders for their swift response, particularly the Nairobi Fire Brigade, Kenya Power, and the Kenya Police who helped contain the fire.
"We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the emergency response teams from the Nairobi Fire Brigade, Kenya Power, and Kenya Police for their swift and effective response to the situation. Their prompt actions helped contain the fire by midnight, preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of those in the vicinity," he further said.
While the immediate crisis has been resolved, Mulaa said investigations into the cause of the fire and an assessment of the damages are ongoing.
"Investigations on the cause of the fire and assessment of the cost of damage have already commenced. We shall continue to update you promptly and transparently," he concluded.
