University of Nairobi Unveils Official Attire

The University of Nairobi (UoN) unveiled its official attire on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 in a highly anticipated fashion event held at the ADD Building- Faculty of Built Environment and Design. The UoN attire, the result of collaborative efforts between faculty members and fashion design students, features a variety of designs that reflect the university's rich heritage and creative spirit. The colors, symbols, and patterns used in the designs were carefully selected to represent the university's values of excellence and diversity. The collection has something for everyone both formal and casual wear; shirts, skirts, blouses, Ties, bags and scarfs.

The University attire in different forms 

Dr. Samuel Maina, Chairman of the Department of Art and Design, provided insights into the extensive design and production process, stating, "As a department, we have dedicated considerable time and effort to create a product that truly reflects our identity as the University of Nairobi. Our designs incorporate symbols, colors, and patterns that showcase our creativity, versatility, and aspirations for the future." Dr. Maina also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the third and fourth-year students, who not only designed the clothes but also dedicated countless hours to ensure the successful completion of the project.

The VC UoN, Prof. Kiama 
receiving his University shirt

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Kiama, exuded pride as he interacted with staff and students at the event, "Today is a remarkable day for all of us. True to our motto, 'UoN Home of Talents,' we have demonstrated our unwavering commitment to nurturing student talents and facilitating the commercialization of their creations," proclaimed the Vice Chancellor. He went on to inspire staff and students to embrace innovation, emphasizing that the university is actively positioning itself as an innovation hub, fostering talents across all faculties and empowering them to reach new heights.

Prof. Julius Ogeng'o, Deputy Vice Chancellor- Academic Affairs, expressed his immense approval, declaring, “today is the happiest day of my tenure at this university. Everything I have witnessed today has filled my heart with joy." Prof. Ogeng'o commended the design team for their outstanding work in creating pieces that will serve as a timeless representation of the UoN brand. Prof. Margaret Hutchison, Deputy Vice Chancellor- Research, Innovation, and Enterprise, shared in the excitement, stating, "This is a momentous occasion for all of us. Witnessing our students showcase their innovative creations and unparalleled creativity fills us with immense pride. We can confidently say that we have a remarkable innovation hub right here."

Prof. Lilac Osanjo, the Dean Faculty of Built Environment and Design, who played a pivotal role in the design and production of the UoN attire, expressed her pride in the final collection. "We take great pride in presenting these market-ready designs. We have featured our official corporate colors of white and blue, we have also incorporated black, brown, and red, showcasing the versatility of our prints. These products will be available for purchase at the UoN bookstore, available to all members of staff and students."

Additionally, the Department of Art and Design has organized an art exhibition, set to run from June 14 to June 16, 2023. The exhibition, held at the Art and Design Studio on Level 3 of the ADD building, features various panels that highlight the department's five major specializations- fashion, interior, product/industrial and graphics design. Visitors will have the opportunity experience the the creative designs of the department's diverse artistic endeavors.

The exhibitions at the ADD Building

Senior university officials, including Dean of Law Prof. Winnie Kamau, Dean of Arts and Social Sciences Prof. Jack Odhiambo, Associate Dean of Education Dr. Anne Ndiritu, directors from various sections, registrars, and chairmen of various departments, were also present at the fashion event.

The unveiling of the University of Nairobi's official attire is a significant milestone, the attire perfectly capture the institution's rich heritage and creative spirit. With these designs now available to the public, the UoN community can proudly embrace and showcase their affiliation with the University of Nairobi.