On Friday, 20 February 2026, the Department of Civil & Construction Engineering hosted a highly engaging industry expert presentation delivered by Mr. James Ciira, Products and Specifications Manager at SIKA Ltd. The seminar was facilitated by Dr. Eng. Paul Kioko and attracted strong participation from both students and staff.

The session brought together undergraduate students, MSc and PhD candidates, as well as academic staff, reflecting the department’s commitment to strengthening academia–industry linkages and exposing learners to contemporary developments in construction technology.

Key Highlights of the Presentation

Eng. Ciira provided valuable insights into SIKA’s product innovations and technical solutions within the construction industry. A major highlight of the seminar was the announcement of the launch of a new mix-design software tool available on the SIKA website. The software is designed to support engineers, researchers, and practitioners in developing optimised concrete mix designs with improved performance and efficiency.

In addition, Eng. Ciira informed the audience that SIKA Ltd is open to supporting academic research initiatives, particularly those aligned with construction materials, durability, and performance enhancement. This presents a significant opportunity for MSc and PhD students to collaborate with industry in advancing applied research.

Engagement and Appreciation

The seminar was interactive, with participants engaging in discussions on material performance, practical applications, and research opportunities. To mark the occasion, SIKA Ltd generously presented gifts to attendees, further enhancing the experience.

Dr. Eng. Paul Kioko expressed appreciation to Eng. Ciira and SIKA Ltd for their continued support of engineering education and professional development.

Strengthening Academia–Industry Collaboration

The Department of Civil & Construction Engineering continues to foster partnerships that bridge classroom learning and industry practice. Such engagements provide students and researchers with exposure to emerging technologies, practical tools, and real-world challenges in the construction sector.

The department looks forward to future collaborations with SIKA Ltd and other industry partners in advancing innovation, research, and professional growth.