The College of Engineering, Computing and IT at the University of Hargeisa successfully organized a guest lecture titled “System Planning, Design, and Construction of an 11 kV Distribution System” on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, at the Auditorium Hall of the School of Graduate Studies (SGS), University of Hargeisa.
The lecture was delivered by Eng. Ezra Ndenderu, PE, Acting Regional Manager at Kenya Power (KPLC), a professional engineer with more than 30 years of experience in power systems engineering, electrical infrastructure development, and utility operations. The session provided an opportunity for students and participants to gain practical insights into electrical power distribution systems, engineering design, and the technical considerations involved in developing reliable electricity infrastructure.
The session was officially opened by Dr. Abdirisak Mohamed Abdillahi, Dean of the College of Engineering, Computing and IT, who welcomed the guest speaker and participants.
In his opening remarks, the Dean highlighted the importance of guest lectures in connecting classroom learning with professional engineering practice. He emphasized the value of exposing students to experienced industry professionals who can share technical knowledge, practical experiences, and insights into the challenges and opportunities within the engineering sector.
The lecture reflected the College’s commitment to strengthening practical learning, professional development, and engagement with industry experts to enhance students’ technical competencies and career readiness.
The guest lecture focused on the fundamental engineering considerations involved in planning, designing, and constructing an 11 kV electrical distribution system, an essential component of medium-voltage electricity networks.
The session addressed important areas of power distribution engineering, including system planning, infrastructure design, network reliability, operational efficiency, and the practical requirements associated with implementing electricity distribution projects.
Drawing on his extensive professional experience, Eng. Ezra Ndenderu provided an industry-oriented perspective on the technical and operational aspects of power distribution infrastructure and the importance of sound engineering practices in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable electricity supply.
The topic was particularly relevant to engineering students seeking to understand how theoretical principles of electrical engineering are translated into practical infrastructure planning, construction, and utility operations.
Eng. Ezra Ndenderu brings more than three decades of experience in power systems engineering and utility operations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), combining technical engineering expertise with managerial and organizational leadership skills.
Throughout his professional career, he has contributed to major energy infrastructure and capacity-building projects in Kenya, gaining extensive experience in electricity distribution operations and infrastructure development.
His professional background provided valuable context for understanding the relationship between engineering design, technical implementation, infrastructure management, and the broader responsibilities of electricity utility providers.
The guest lecture formed part of the College of Engineering, Computing and IT’s efforts to broaden students’ exposure to professional engineering practices and emerging industry challenges.
By facilitating knowledge exchange between academic communities and experienced professionals, the College aims to strengthen the connection between academic instruction and the practical skills required in today’s engineering profession.
Such initiatives provide opportunities for students to deepen their technical understanding, develop professional perspectives, and appreciate the role of engineers in addressing infrastructure development and energy sector challenges.
The University of Hargeisa remains committed to promoting quality education, practical learning, and professional engagement through academic activities that enhance students’ knowledge, strengthen their competencies, and prepare them to contribute to sustainable infrastructure development and technological advancement.
