Chandaria Foundation’s KSh 40 Million Investment Strengthens AMIU’s Health Sciences Learning Environment
The contribution supports the development of academic infrastructure at Amref International University, including the Chandaria Academic Centre and Chandaria Auditorium. Amref International University (AMIU) has recognised the Chandaria Foundation’s contribution of KSh 40 million towards strengthening the University’s academic infrastructure, naming Academic Block C the Chandaria Academic Centre and its fourth-floor auditorium the Chandaria Auditorium. The unveiling took place during a naming rights donation handover ceremony at AMIU’s Northlands Campus on 4 November 2026. The event was attended by representatives of Beyond Zero, who were present on behalf of its Founder, H.E. Margaret Kenyatta; Mrs Muthoni Kuria, Chair of the AMIU University Council; representatives of the University Management Board; and student representatives, alongside leaders from Amref Health Africa and the Chandaria Foundation. The investment reflects the importance of partnerships in building the institutions and learning environments needed to prepare Africa’s health workforce. For AMIU, the contribution supports its commitment to developing competent health professionals equipped to respond to the continent’s evolving health needs. The naming of the facilities follows Dr Manu Chandaria’s visit to AMIU’s Northlands Campus in October 2025, when he reaffirmed his support for the University’s growth and health sciences education. The contribution formalises that commitment and recognises the role of philanthropy in advancing education and institutional development. “Education and Healthcare are close to Dr. Chandaria’s heart and therefore the Chandaria Academic Centre and Chandaria Auditorium should serve as places of change where more than learning happens. The least we can do to honour the legacy as a University is to ensure these spaces become the centres for innovation,” said Eunice Mathu, Vice Chair, Board of Trustees, Amref International University. Investing in the spaces where health professionals learn The quality of health sciences education is shaped not only by curriculum and faculty, but also by the environments in which students learn, collaborate and develop practical competencies. The Chandaria Academic Centre and Chandaria Auditorium form part of AMIU’s academic infrastructure, supporting teaching, learning and the exchange of knowledge. The auditorium also provides a space for academic engagement, dialogue and collaboration among students, faculty, partners and the wider health community. “Our learning institutions must be a place of change. We must provide practical knowledge that provides hands-on experience in the workplace,” said Dr Manu Chandaria. “Today, Amref International University joins the list of over 30 educational institutions that have the Chandaria name and have benefitted from the impact of the Foundation,” he added. As a university focused on health sciences and Primary Health Care (PHC), AMIU’s learning approach connects academic preparation with the realities of health service delivery. Its facilities contribute to an environment where future health professionals can build the knowledge, skills and values required to serve communities. Partnerships for Africa’s health workforce Africa’s health systems require a skilled, adaptable and well-supported workforce. Meeting this need calls for sustained investment in education, training institutions and partnerships that strengthen the capacity to prepare health professionals. The Chandaria Foundation’s contribution highlights the role that private philanthropy can play alongside universities, governments and development partners in supporting education infrastructure and expanding opportunities for learning. Vivian Ngugi, representing Beyond Zero, highlighted the shared focus on maternal and child health, saying: “Our Patron’s passion in maternal and child health is why the work that the University is doing in the community resonates with the work of Beyond Zero.” Dr Githinji Gitahi, Amref Group CEO, also recognised the significance of the partnership, saying: “We are honoured to be associated with the Chandaria name. Your generosity, kindness and humility will be remembered at Amref University, as we do our part in empowering young minds and equipping them with skills and knowledge.” For AMIU, the investment aligns with its broader mission to develop a competent health workforce and generate evidence that drives equitable access to primary healthcare across Africa. The University continues to strengthen its academic offering and institutional capacity to respond to the needs of communities and health systems. A lasting contribution to learning and impact The naming of the Chandaria Academic Centre and Chandaria Auditorium acknowledges the Foundation’s support while underscoring a shared commitment to education as a foundation for lasting change. As AMIU continues to grow, investments in its academic environment will remain important to preparing health professionals, researchers and leaders who can contribute to stronger and more equitable health systems across Africa.