TUM’s Graduation Square has a new glamorous face after undergoing extensive reconstruction that took a whole year.
The Vice Chancellor Prof Laila Abubakar unveiled it on Monday of November 11, 2025 in an event witnessed by students and staff, who wowed at the new design that integrates artfully with the other structures and the greenery in the main campus.
The stunning transformation restores the heart of the institution, providing a modern yet historically resonant space for the TUM community.
The renovation project, which took approximately one year to complete at a cost of KShs 22,788,633, was executed by Becan Construction Ltd. The design successfully blends contemporary needs with the institution’s heritage, borrowing elements from TUM’s original architectural designs and incorporating the aesthetic principles of a Renaissance garden.
This ambitious outlook was the brainchild of TUM alumnus Larry Kavali, who worked under the stewardship of Architect Onesmus Mwatu, the Chairman of the Project Completion Team.
The project encompassed a complete facelift, introducing new provisions such as durable paving, comfortable benches, decorative water fountains, unique lighting system, extensive landscaping works and, of course, the creation of a new garden situated in front of the M-Block.
Inaugurating the event, Prof Laila Abubakar expressed profound appreciation for the dedication of the entire TUM fraternity. She specifically commended the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance & Planning - DVC-AFP) Prof J.oseph Rasowo and the project implementation team led by Arch Mwatu.
She also lauded Becan Construction Ltd Director Eng Isaiah N. Onchonga and his team for their professionalism and goodwill exhibited throughout the project despite some challenge of delayed payments.
The Vice Chancellor passionately stated that this significant renovation reinforces her renewed zeal to leave a completely revitalized TUM as a lasting legacy upon her tenure’s conclusion.
She concluded with a caution to the University to protect the new assets by guarding against vandalism.
The DVC-AFP was ecstatic about the positive reviews received from stakeholders, particularly the students, noting the project’s immediate impact.
Beyond aesthetics, the renovated gardens are designed to support modern academic life: Strong Wi-Fi connectivity is equipped across all garden spaces, enabling students to easily access valuable online learning materials and participate in virtual classes.
These airy, green spaces are expected to serve as vital retreats, helping students reduce mental fatigue and significantly increase their ability to focus and concentrate on their studies.
The newly unveiled Graduation Square is poised to become a central hub for relaxation, learning, and community connection at TUM.
