ISK President Nyandimo Urges Students to Prepare Early for Professional Careers

Story by Monyonge O’kebati & Violet Kerubo
Students from various universities converged at the Chandaria Centre for Performing Arts auditorium at the University of Nairobi on October 1 for an Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) student engagement that culminated in the recognition of top-performing students and the launch of an internship portal.
The best-performing students were awarded KSh10,000 each, as ISK President and Chief Guest Mr. Eric Nyandimo, MISK, LS(K) challenged students to begin preparing for their professional careers before graduation.
Nyandimo said academic qualifications alone are not enough to guarantee success in the modern workplace, urging students to develop additional skills in client management, financial management, marketing, relationship building and leadership.
He said ISK has a responsibility to nurture the next generation of professionals and make its programmes increasingly accessible and relevant to students.
“Professional membership should not be viewed simply as a badge that comes after qualification,” Nyandimo said, describing membership as a bridge into the profession and a platform for mentorship, networking, knowledge exchange, professional development and exposure to industry.
He encouraged students to participate in ISK technical sessions, meetings and other professional activities, saying the relationships they establish could become valuable throughout their careers.
Nyandimo said students should see themselves not merely as future employees but as future leaders capable of contributing to the development of Kenya and Africa.
He cited rapid urbanisation, environmental change, housing needs, infrastructure development, land administration, climate resilience and sustainable investment among the challenges requiring innovative and ethical professionals.
He challenged students to consider how their expertise could be applied to real-world problems, including the use of geospatial information in disaster preparedness, improved land information for investment, technology in property markets and professional expertise in developing sustainable cities.
Focus on mentorship and partnerships
Nyandimo stressed the importance of mentorship, integrity and continuous learning as students transition into professional practice.
He said ISK was working to strengthen partnerships with universities to expand opportunities for students and graduates.
According to Nyandimo, the institution was working towards signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Kenyatta University, while an agreement with the University of Nairobi had been finalised apart from final administrative details.
He said the partnerships would support initiatives such as internships and closer interaction between students, universities and practising professionals.
ISK is also developing a mentorship policy targeting graduate members who require guidance as they work towards professional licensing and registration.
Nyandimo said experienced professionals have an important role to play in helping graduates navigate the early stages of their careers.
Internship portal launched
A key highlight of the October 1 event was the launch of the ISK internship portal, aimed at strengthening access to practical professional opportunities for students.
The initiative is expected to provide a link between students and workplace experience, helping them gain practical exposure before entering full-time professional practice.
Nyandimo urged students to take advantage of such opportunities and to prepare themselves for emerging areas of work associated with major infrastructure and investment projects.
He cited developments such as the Dangote refinery and proposed underground railway infrastructure in Nairobi as examples of large-scale projects that could create opportunities for professionals with the necessary technical skills.
During his speech, Nyandimo referenced figures of Sh2 trillion for the refinery and Sh1.2 trillion for the proposed underground railway opportunity.
He encouraged students to broaden their ambitions and position themselves to participate in major development projects rather than limiting their career expectations to conventional employment.
Nyandimo also thanked the University of Nairobi, speakers, partners, sponsors, the ISK Council and members, as well as the student organising committee for their contribution to the event.
He said the conference was intended to inspire new ideas, partnerships and a new generation of professionals committed to competence, innovation, integrity and continuous professional development