Historic Milestone: Umma University Commissions Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex and Breaks Ground for Engineering School Phase III
A New Chapter in Academic Excellence and Innovation
Umma University marked a transformative moment in its journey when His Excellency President Dr. William Samoei Ruto officially commissioned the magnificent Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex and presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the School of Engineering Phase III.
A Landmark Achievement for Higher Education
The commissioning of the Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex represents more than just the addition of new infrastructure—it symbolizes our commitment to academic excellence and our vision for the future of education in Kenya. This impressive Sh1.4 billion, 10-storey architectural marvel stands as a testament to what can be achieved through strategic partnerships and shared vision.
With the capacity to serve over 10,000 students, this state-of-the-art facility will revolutionize the learning experience at Umma University, providing modern lecture halls, research facilities, collaborative spaces, and cutting-edge technology infrastructure that meets international standards.
Engineering the Future: School of Engineering Phase III
The groundbreaking of our School of Engineering Phase III marks another significant stride in our mission to equip young Kenyans with critical skills for the 21st century. This expansion will enable us to:
- Increase our engineering program capacity
- Introduce new specialized engineering disciplines
- Enhance practical training facilities and laboratories
- Foster innovation and entrepreneurship among our students
- Strengthen industry partnerships for hands-on learning experiences
As President Ruto emphasized during his address, this development is crucial for “equipping young Kenyans with the tools to innovate, build, and lead in the industries of tomorrow.”
A Celebration of Partnership and Collaboration
This momentous occasion brought together an distinguished assembly of leaders and partners, including:
- Cabinet Secretaries
- County Governors
- Members of Parliament
- International Ambassadors
- Development Partners and Donors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our key partners who made this achievement possible:
- The Government of Kenya for its unwavering support and commitment to higher education
- The Government of Kuwait for their generous contribution and continued partnership
- Direct Aid Society for their dedication to educational development
- All stakeholders who have contributed to this transformative project
Aligning with National Education Reforms
President Ruto’s visit underscored the government’s commitment to transforming higher education in Kenya. The new Student-Centred Funding Model and governance reforms have:
- Made university education more accessible to students across the nation
- Reduced financial barriers for learners
- Strengthened institutional governance
- Ensured the sustainability of universities
- Restored financial stability in the higher education sector
These reforms align perfectly with Umma University’s mission to provide quality, accessible education that prepares graduates to be skilled, ethical, and innovative leaders ready to create jobs and tackle contemporary challenges.
Looking Forward: Our Commitment to Excellence
As we celebrate this historic milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to:
- Academic Excellence: Continuing to provide world-class education that meets international standards
- Innovation and Research: Fostering a culture of innovation and cutting-edge research
- Community Impact: Producing graduates who will contribute meaningfully to society
- Sustainable Growth: Ensuring our expansion benefits current and future generations of students
- Industry Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with industry to ensure our programs remain relevant and practical
A Message to Our Students and Community
This development represents our investment in your future. The Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex and the upcoming School of Engineering Phase III will provide you with unparalleled opportunities to learn, grow, and prepare for successful careers in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
To our prospective students, these facilities demonstrate our commitment to providing you with the best possible educational experience. Umma University is not just keeping pace with the times—we are setting the standard for higher education in the region.
Conclusion
The commissioning of the Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sumait Complex and the groundbreaking of the School of Engineering Phase III mark a defining moment in Umma University’s history. With the support of our government, international partners, and stakeholders, we are building more than just buildings—we are constructing the foundation for Kenya’s future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers.
As we move forward, we remain committed to our vision of being a leading institution of higher learning that shapes graduates who are not only academically excellent but also ethically grounded and ready to make a positive impact on society.
Together, we are writing a new chapter in Kenya’s educational journey—one that promises opportunity, innovation, and transformation for generations to come.


