University of Nairobi skyscraper expansion

Construction is under way of a 22-storey skyscraper

The University of Nairobi is building a 22-storey skyscraper on a green site at its main campus to deal with its ever increasing student population.

The new building will save the institution from future property rentals as well as providing student accommodation and much-needed educational facilities.

The $30-million complex, which is scheduled for completion in December 2015, was designed by local firm Waweru & Associates and is being built by the China Wu Yi construction company.

The project is being financed mainly by university funds and donations, although the $1.5-million gift from Kenyan businessman and philanthropist Manu Chandaria has led to the building being named Chandaria University of Nairobi Towers.

The university's existing lecture halls and office spaces are not adequate to handle its current student population of more than 60,000. The new building will feature a 500-seater lecture theatre, four 300-seater lecture halls, several 60-seater lecture rooms and various boardrooms.

It will also become the first Kenyan university to have its own helipad.