The Technical University of Kenya, on 17th September 2025 hosted world-renowned violinist, Ms Diana Jipa and pianist Ștefan Doniga from Romania.
The duo held a concert at the University’s main hall that was attended by Romanian Ambassador to Kenya, H.E Gentiana Serbu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in-charge of Institutional Advancement and Enterprises (IAE), Prof. Paul Wambua, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs (ASA) Prof. Maurice Amutabi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Research and Technology Development (RTD), Prof. Isaac Orina, Executive Dean Faculty of Social Sciences and Technology, Prof. Maina Matu, Chairperson Department of Creative Arts and Media (DCAM) Dr. Mary Clare Kidenda, staff from both TU-K and Romanian Embassy in Nairobi and students.
The performance ranged from Paul Constantinescu-Sonatina for violin and piano in G minor, Ernest Bloch-moments form the “Baal shem” suite for violin and piano, Walter Michael Klepper- Sonatina for violin and piano no. 1 among others.
In a speech of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Benedict Mutua read on his behalf by Prof. Wambua, thanked the Ambassador for her support in fostering collaborations with TU-K and for her instrumental role in ensuring the success of the concert.
“Your commitment to strengthening cultural and academic ties has not only enriched our community but also created meaningful opportunities for exchange and dialogue. This event stands as a testament to your vision and dedication, and we are truly honoured to have benefited from your leadership and encouragement.”
He urged students to cherish such opportunities emphasising that they were witnessing history and were part of a legacy that placed the University at the intersection of intellect and artistry, knowledge and inspiration.
He noted that TU-K was privileged to host musicians, whose artistry has graced the greatest stages across the globe. He added that within the University, music concerts are not merely entertainment, rather, they are a vital part of learning, creativity, and community.
“What makes this event even more remarkable is the fact that our university has been chosen as the only institution on this entire continent to host this performance. This singular honour is not just a recognition of TUK’s standing, but also a testament to the openness of our community, our commitment to cultural exchange, and our belief in the transformative power of the arts.
H.E Serbu explained that music, is more than melody and rhythm. That it is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and disciplines.
“Music is an indispensable part of the human story. The presence of these great artists should inspire us to reach higher, dream bigger, and value the arts as a pillar of knowledge and progress.”
She went further to explain that music nurtures the soul, ignite imagination, and remind people that learning is not confined to lecture halls or laboratories, but also in the harmonies and shared experiences that bind humanity.
The ambassador advised against misuse of internet and technology to spread propaganda, hate speech, lies, malice among other ills that bedevils the society and can lead to wars. She urged the society to remain vigilante and condemn such acts.
“Music reminds us that we share a heritage, values and ethics, irrespective of our skin color or background,”
Dr. Kidenda said, “We gather not only to enjoy the beauty of great artistry, but to witness the brilliance of two of the most celebrated voices in classical music today. Their performances are celebrated for their profound musical insight, technical mastery, and the rare ability to touch hearts across cultures and generations.”
About Artistes
Violinist Diana Jipa and pianist Ștefan Doniga form the most active chamber ensemble in Romanian classical music in recent years. In January 2025, the two musicians received official approval from GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS for the fastest time to play a concert on each continent, becoming the first musicians in the world to perform on all 7 continents in less than 100 days and the first in the world to perform a professional classical music concert in Antarctica. Diana and Ștefan are specialised in making very long tours, in 2023, they became the first Romanian musicians to circle the Earth in a single concert tour. Since 2017, they have made more than 600 recitals and concerts in over 30 countries on all 7 continents and in over 50 cities in Romania. The two musicians are considered important promoters of Romanian chamber of music worldwide.
TU-K collaboration with Romania
TU-K enjoys mutual relationship with Romania. Through the Romanian Embassy in Nairobi, the two institutions have jointly taken part in various activities among them; ‘The Romanian International Day for Cultural Diversity and Development, held in Nairobi from 21st May 2024. The event exhibited cultural heritage and traditions from Kenya and Romania.
Last year, the University signed an MoU with Transilvania University of Brașov. The signing ceremony took place at the Romanian Embassy in Nairobi.
The MoU Covered academic, exchange programmes for lecturers and students, conferences, workshops, music, dance, art and theatre. Both staff and students from TU-K and Romania have benefitted.
