UoN Prospects New Frontiers in Digital Science and Technology Research
The University of Nairobi hosted a high-level delegation from France’s National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology (INRIA) on October 2, 2025, for a courtesy call aimed at strengthening ties in digital science and technology.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Margaret Hutchinson, was the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance, Planning and Development, Prof. Jackson Maalu. He was joined by the Director of University Advancement and Institutional Development, Prof. George Abong, alongside members of the Faculty of Science and Technology. The INRIA team was led by the Director of International Relations, Ms Cécile Vigouroux. Also present were representatives from Expertise France and Kenya Space Agency.
The purpose of the visit was to gain a deeper understanding of Kenya’s higher education, research and innovation ecosystem, while identifying fresh opportunities for collaboration.
Welcoming the delegation, Prof. Maalu underscored the long-standing partnership between Kenya and France, noting that the two governments enjoy a close working relationship, which has been strengthened recently by engagements between the Heads of State. “The University of Nairobi remains committed to building on this foundation to advance joint research and innovation,” he said.
On her part, Ms Vigouroux emphasised INRIA’s mission of advancing France’s research strategy in digital science on a global scale. She noted that the University of Nairobi is an ideal strategic partner in Africa due to its academic significance and regional leadership in research and innovation.
INRIA, a public French national institute dedicated to digital science and technology, has since January 2024 also been tasked with overseeing the French Digital Programs Agency, which is designed to strengthen collective dynamics in higher education and research.
The University of Nairobi and French institutions continue to enjoy close cooperation, particularly through the Engineering and Science Complex (ESC) project anchored under the Directorate of University Advancement and Institutional Development. ESC is a flagship initiative between the two governments focusing on sustainability, innovation and multidisciplinary research.
Today’s engagement with INRIA is expected to open new pathways for collaboration in digital science, data-driven innovation and technology transfer, confirming the University of Nairobi’s role as a globally competitive institution transforming society.
