MKUF patron’s KSh82 million gift to past university students
Mount Kenya University Foundation patron Prof. Simon Gicharu has announced a KSh82 million waiver in fees for all past students of Mount Kenya University who are yet to collect their academic certificates due to arrears.
Speaking on the occasion of the university’s 25th Graduation ceremony at Happy Valley Grounds on Friday, August 2, 2024, Prof. Gicharu said the waiver will enable the students seek employment jobs and thus harness their potential.
The waiver comes just an year after Prof. Gicharu announced a similar KSh80 million relief on student penalties for late return of graduation gowns, library fees and other levies.
“The issue of uncollected certificates was worsened by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Prof. Gicharu had said on the occasion of the 23rd Graduation Ceremony. “Over 4,000 past students have accumulated storage fees, library arrears, and late return of graduation gowns. In total, the levies amount to about KSh80 million.”
A section of the elated graduands.
He added: “True to the university motto Unlocking Infinite Possibilities, we don’t want to be the hinderance towards unlocking the infinite possibilities for you. Therefore, we are extending this waiver and all past students can now come and collect their academic certificates.”
Prof. Gicharu encouraged the students beneficiaries of the two waivers to contribute towards the education of other students in future, with money collected going towards the Chancellor’s Scholarship Fund.
A total of 7,974 students graduated on the 25th Graduation Ceremony, the highest number in Mount Kenya University’s near-30-year history. The theme of the event was “University Sustainability Through Research and Innovation.” Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research, in the Ministry of Education was the chief guest. The colourful occasion at Happy Valley Grounds, Thika, was also attended by Most Rev. Dr. Jackson Ole Sapit, Archbishop of The Anglican Church of Kenya.
Crowds, gowns and crowns: A total of 7,974 students graduated on that day
In his speech, Prof. Gicharu also announced plans to establish an e-sports training centre at the newly-refurbished Students Centre, Thika Main Campus. The centre will be erected in collaboration with Esports Kenya Federation.
“This will enable students with skills that will enable them generate an income and even make a career out of it,” said Prof. Gicharu.
MKU Vice Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi hailed the giant steps the institution has taken in enhancing its academic reputation, research output and linkages. “This achievement is a result of the culmination of a well-orchestrated journey of planning, execution, and relentless improvement.”
“From available records, the University (MKU) has partnered with several universities across the continent and globally not only to provide quality education but also to facilitate a seamless transition of graduates into the labour market, both at home and internationally,” said Dr. Inyangala.
Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research, in the Ministry of Education
“I recognize in a very special way the incredible journey taken by Mount Kenya University over the last 25 years. In total determination to supplement the Government’s efforts to increase access to affordable, relevant and quality university education, Mount Kenya University chose the path less travelled,” she added.
Besides the guests, university officials and graduands, the ceremony was also graced by hundreds of family members and friends of the graduating classes. “Hii ndiyo shule mzuri kabisa! Nitaambia wenzangu kutoka Kilgoris na Narok yote walete watoto wao MKU!” enthused Daniel Kokoyo Malit, father to one of the graduands.
