Two years ago, the University of Nairobi's Department of Real Estate, Construction Management, and Quantity Surveying embarked on a transformative journey with Oracle Academy. This partnership, centered around the powerful Primavera P6 project management tool, has empowered our students to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Now, we're excited to share a documentary that captures the impact of this collaboration.
In the heart of Nairobi, amidst the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, a gathering of minds took place at the Oracle offices. It was the 16th of March, a day marked not only in the calendar but in the annals of engineering education around the world. The occasion? The World Engineering Day event, where luminaries from academia, industry, and technology converged to elevate the next generation of engineering and construction project managers.
Under the theme "Elevating Next Gen Engineering and Construction Project Managers with Oracle Primavera Cloud," the event promised insights, inspiration, and a vision for the future. Among the distinguished guests were leaders like Lorna Juma, the Program Manager of Oracle Academy Eastern Africa, and David Bunei, the Country Director Kenya and Cloud Systems Sales Director for CEA.
Even the virtual realm didn't hinder participation, as Danny Gooris, the Director of Oracle Academy EMEA, joined remotely, bridging distances to share wisdom and expertise.
But it wasn't just about the names on the roster; it was about the stories they brought with them. Stories of collaboration and innovation echoed through the halls of academia and industry alike.
One such tale emerged from the University of Nairobi, where a partnership between Oracle Academy and the Construction and Real Estate Students Association (CRESA) had borne fruit. Through dedication and determination, 140 students found themselves equipped with the tools to navigate the intricacies of Oracle Primavera P6, thanks to the University's Oracle member hub account.
But the story didn't end there. Fueled by ambition and a thirst for knowledge, the University sought to deepen this partnership. In a bold move, they expressed their desire to establish an Oracle Center of Excellence within their Department of Real Estate Construction Management and Quantity Surveying.
Architect Peter Njeru, the Chairman of the Department, stood at the forefront of this endeavor, envisioning a space where students could immerse themselves in the world of Oracle Primavera, honing their skills and shaping their futures. His vision was clear, his determination unwavering as he extended an invitation to the country director, beckoning Oracle to join hands in this noble pursuit.
At the heart of this partnership lay innovation—the University's bold move to apply for an Oracle Primavera Cloud account. Their vision was clear: to equip their students with the latest tools and technologies, empowering them to lead the way in the digital age. And their efforts bore fruit, as they became the first university in Africa to be awarded this prestigious account.
With Oracle Primavera Cloud now at their fingertips, students would embark on a new chapter of learning. No longer confined to the classroom, they would delve into the intricacies of project management, guided by the expertise of Oracle's industry-leading software.
Driven by a shared vision of excellence, the Chair of the Department of Real Estate Construction Management and Quantity Surveying pledged to integrate Oracle Primavera into the curriculum. Final year students would now have the opportunity to develop schedules of works for their projects using Oracle Primavera P6, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
As the event unfolded, the seeds of collaboration were sown, paving the way for a future where academia and industry intertwine, where knowledge flows freely, and where dreams take flight. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with passion as their compass and innovation as their guide, these pioneers are ready to build a future where the skyline knows no limits.
In the heart of Nairobi, amidst the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, a new chapter had begun—a chapter written not in ink, but in the boundless possibilities of collaboration and innovation.
Special recognition to:
Christopher Muthere - Consultant
Eng. Francis Mwangi - Konza Technopolis Development
Michael Muite - Principal Solution Engineer at Oracle
Naftaly Mwangi - CEO, HYSSOP Properties
Joan Chepkoech - IEEE representative
Senior Nicky Nzioki - Lecturer, University of Nairobi, and former AfRES East Africa Chapter Chair.
CRESA (Construction Management, Real Estate, and Quantity Surveying Association) successfully hosted its highly anticipated Annual Students Convention, Awards, and Gala Dinner on June 2, 2023. The prestigious event, held in partnership with MACE YMR, Oracle Academy, and Talinda East Africa, took place at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Westlands, Nairobi. It brought together students, industry professionals, and esteemed guests to celebrate a year filled with outstanding accomplishments.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Oracle Academy as the Best Education Technology Innovation and Supporting Partner. Oracle Academy's commitment to advancing education technology and supporting CRESA's initiatives was acknowledged with great enthusiasm. The award was accepted by Lorna Juma, the Program Manager of Oracle Academy Sub-Saharan Africa.
In addition, the Department of Construction Management, Real Estate, and Quantity Surveying at the University of Nairobi received the coveted Student Advocacy Award. This esteemed recognition highlighted the department's dedication to advocating for the needs and interests of CRESA students. Arch Peter Njeru, the Chair of the department, graciously accepted the award on behalf of the department.
Furthermore, the event acknowledged and honoured the Most Active Students who had demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and participation throughout the year. These students were commended for their outstanding contributions to the growth and success of CRESA. The gala dinner also marked the official conclusion of the CRESA Executive Council's tenure. The outgoing members were celebrated for their tireless efforts in organizing various initiatives, events, and activities that enriched the CRESA experience for all students. Their commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community within the association was acknowledged and appreciated.
The esteemed Chief Guest for the evening was Farida Karoney, the former Cabinet Secretary for Lands and Physical Planning. Ms. Karoney's presence added a touch of prestige to the event, and her inspiring address emphasized the importance of the construction, real estate, and quantity surveying sectors in Kenya's development.
Other distinguished guests in attendance included
• Hon. Gideon Keter, the President of the Youth Senate
• Mr. Nicky Nzioki, the AfRES (African Real Estate Society) East Africa Chapter Chair.
• Nashon Okowa Founding Director BEACON AFRICA
• Muthoka John, the Founding Director of CADE PROJECTS
• Representatives from the Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya (IQSK)
• Representatives from ECOTECTURE
Lauryn Luchera Construction project Manager at Talinda East Africa
Their presence further elevated the significance of the event and provided an opportunity for students to interact with accomplished professionals in their respective fields. The CRESA Annual Students Convention, Awards, and Gala Dinner, held in partnership with MACE YMR, Oracle Academy, and Talinda East Africa, not only celebrated the remarkable achievements of the past year but also fostered an atmosphere of inspiration and motivation for future endeavours. The event served as a platform for students to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and further their professional growth.
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