University of Nairobi

About

The University of Nairobi is Kenya's largest and oldest institution of higher learning, renowned for its comprehensive academic offerings and significant contributions to research and development in East Africa. It is particularly strong in fields such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, and Business, attracting a diverse student body. For international students, the university offers a vibrant experience with most programs taught in English, and a dedicated International Students Office provides support for admissions, immigration, and welfare. A distinctive characteristic is its role as a leading research hub in the region, often collaborating on critical African issues and fostering a dynamic intellectual environment.

Background

The University of Nairobi (UoN) is a collegiate research university based in Nairobi and is the largest university in Kenya. Although its history as an educational institution dates back to 1956, it did not become an independent university until 1970. During that year, the University of East Africa was split into three independent universities: the Makerere University in Uganda, the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, and the University of Nairobi in Kenya. During the 2023 academic year, the university had 49,047 students, of whom 35,897 were undergraduates and 11,003 were postgraduates. The university launched several policy frameworks and introduced self-funded enrollment (also called 'module 2') to cope with the rising demand for higher education in Kenya.

Location

Quick facts

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