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- Dr Christelle Mbouteu celebrated her graduation with a PhD in Physics from the University of Nairobi, marking a major milestone in her journey of academic perseverance
- On the same day, she was recognised as a 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talent for her groundbreaking work in energy access in Africa
- Her achievement inspired Kenyans on social media, highlighting the powerful intersection of scientific excellence and tangible societal impact
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On a day meant to mark the end of years of intense study, Dr Christelle Mbouteu found her graduation transformed into a moment of international celebration.
Source: Facebook
On Thursday, December 11, 2025, Mbouteu graduated with a PhD in Physics, specialising in Energy Engineering, a milestone achieved after years of rigorous research and quiet perseverance.
What award did Mbouteu win?
A Facebook post by the University of Nairobi records that her doctoral work explored innovative solutions to energy access, climate resilience and sustainable development.
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It had a particular focus on underserved communities across Africa, where reliable power remains a daily struggle.
As family, friends and colleagues gathered to honour her academic achievement, news arrived that elevated the occasion far beyond the graduation hall.
On the very same day, Mbouteu was named a 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talent, an international recognition reserved for exceptional early-career scientists whose work demonstrates both scientific excellence and tangible societal impact.
“The award underscores not only the technical depth of her research, but also its human relevance, bridging science and lived realities in regions most affected by energy poverty and climate change,” read the post.
For Mbouteu, the coincidence of graduation and global recognition served as a powerful affirmation that her work resonates beyond academia.
Her story offers hope that locally grounded science can shape more resilient and equitable futures across the continent.
Social media reactions
Kenyans on social media took to the comments section to congratulate the academician, given the technical subject she was pursuing.
Mella Musimbi
“Hearty congratulations!!! Physics! Energy Engineering! Excellent! May God order your steps!”
Jame Mutegi
“Congratulations, that is an excellent area of study. I will be keen to read the thesis.”
Johnson Wambua ·
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“Congratulations are in order. Keep working smart to bring sustainable development to Africans.”
Maria Immaculata Girls Senior School
“Congratulations to Dr Christelle Mbouteu on this outstanding achievement! Her journey in physics, energy and engineering is a powerful reminder of what is possible when girls are supported early in STEM.”
Source: Facebook
Kenyan nurse thanks hubby who paid her fees
In another inspiring story, Nurse Judy expressed gratitude to her husband whom she credited with helping her achieve her dream career.
Judy had faced a life-changing dilemma when she discovered she was pregnant, a development that put her education sponsorship programme at stake.
Despite the setback, her partner promised to support her no matter what, from helping pay her fees to babysitting while she pursued her studies until she graduated.
Today, Judy is a practising nurse, their story a powerful testament to love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
