Exclusive; Dr. Joseph Birundu Mogendi Honored for Academic Excellence as UON celebrates its 71st Graduation Ceremony

Kenya’s Dr. Joseph Birundu Mogendi has been widely celebrated for his academic excellence in the just concluded University of Nairobi’s 71st graduation ceremony.

The graduation ceremony saw thousands of students across various disciplines recognized and among them was Dr. Joseph Birundu Mogendi, a respected Kenyan Scholar.

Highlight of the ceremony that occured at the university’s iconic graduation square were inspiring stories of graduates who had not only achieved academic success but also demonstrated a commitment to transforming society.

Dr. Joseph Birundu Mogendi was among the few scholars who were making fourth academic walk across the graduation stage.

Mogendi received received a Master’s degree in Public Administration, adding to his impressive academic portfolio that already includes a Bachelor of Science degree from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), an MSc from Ghent University, and a PhD in Applied Biological Sciences from Ghent University, Belgium.

His academic journey reflects his dedication to bridging the gap between science, technology, innovation, and public sector reforms. His continued pursuit of higher education is driven by a vision of creating a nexus that harnesses these elements for the betterment of Kenya’s public service delivery systems.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Mogendi said, that he was more determined not only to bring changes in Kenya but also in the entire African

“I am motivated by the need to create tangible solutions that can transform the public sector, not only in Kenya but across Africa, through evidence-based decision-making and the strategic use of research and innovations.” He said.

His master’s research, titled *”Evidence-Based Decision-Making in the Implementation of Devolved Functions in Kenya: An Analysis of the Uptake of Research Findings, Innovations, and Technologies,”* delved into a critical area of public administration.

His work examines how research innovations, technologies, and best practices generated by institutions can be utilized to improve service delivery in Kenya’s devolved government system.

Through this study, Dr. Mogendi hopes to influence policymakers to embrace new research-based solutions and technologies to foster efficiency and transparency in public administration.

His scholarly contributions have already started creating waves within academic and policy-making circles. His work, which focuses on enhancing the uptake of research findings and innovations in the public sector, is seen as a roadmap for improving governance and service delivery in Kenya’s devolved systems.

” By championing a data-driven approach to decision-making, he is laying the foundation for reforms that can significantly boost the efficiency of government operations at the county level,” another scholar told our reporter.

As the curtains closed on this year’s graduation event, Dr. Mogendi’s story served as an inspiration to the next generation of students and a reminder of the power of education in shaping a better future for Kenya. With his sights set on public sector transformation, Dr. Mogendi remains a testament to the impact that relentless pursuit of knowledge can have on society.

The University of Nairobi’s 71st graduation ceremony was marked by a celebration of excellence, innovation, and societal impact. The institution, one of Africa’s leading universities, continues to be a beacon of academic rigor and a cradle of future leaders dedicated to solving the continent’s most pressing challenges.