The history of Technical University of Mombasa dates back to the mid-twentieth century when Kenya was under the British colonial rulers. We look at the milestones and continued progression at this coastal-region-based higher learning institution.
Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) has passed through three transitional levels to become what it is now. The various phases reflect concerted efforts in promoting technical, industrial, vocational and entrepreneurship education and training in line with the dynamic technological and industrial growth in Kenya and Africa.
History of Technical University of Mombasa since 1948
Where is the Technical University of Mombasa located? TUM address is Tom Mboya Street, Mombasa, Kenya.
It is about one kilometre from the bustling Mombasa city centre. Here is a brief history.
1. Establishment in 1948
The origin of TUM can be traced back to the late 1940s as a result of the consultations pioneered by Sir Philip Mitchell in 1948 between The Aga Khan, the Sultan of Zanzibar, the Secretary of State for the colonies, Sir Bernard Reilly and H. M. Treasury.
The Technical University of Mombasa was initially started as the Mombasa Institute of Muslim Education in 1948.
2. Evolution of TUM courses and focus
The institution initially focused on offering courses tailored to the local community, with an emphasis on commerce, religion, and crafts.
By 1966, its name was changed to Mombasa Technical Institute, reflecting an expanded mandate to offer courses in various technical and applied sciences.
3. Transition to Polytechnic
The institution’s scope and capacity grew, and by 1976, it was elevated to a national institution and renamed the Mombasa Polytechnic.
This phase marked the period where the institution expanded its courses in various technical and vocational areas, including engineering, business, and applied sciences.
4. Growth and expansion
Mombasa Polytechnic continued to expand its infrastructure and range of programs on offer.
The institution also began collaborating with other universities and organizations both nationally and internationally.
5. TUM becoming a university college in 2007
In 2007, the Kenyan Government upgraded the Mombasa Polytechnic to a university college, renaming it the Mombasa Polytechnic University College (MPUC).
At this point, the institution started offering degree programs under the mentorship of the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
6. TUM charted into a university in 2013
In 2013, the institution achieved full university status and was renamed the Technical University of Mombasa.
This marked a major milestone in its history as it now had the autonomy to confer degrees, diplomas, and certificates on its own.
TUM’s vision is ‘A Technical University of Global Excellence in Advancing Knowledge, Science and Technology.’
On the other hand, TUM’s mission is ‘To advance knowledge and its practical application through teaching, research and innovation to serve both industry and the community.’
Since achieving university status, TUM has continued to expand its range of programs and solidify its position as a premier technical institution in Kenya. It offers a variety of courses in areas such as engineering, business, hospitality, and applied sciences.
