The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis Aduol earlier today gave his welcoming speech to 1st year students who have been placed atTU-K, marking the end of a 7-day orientation period.
In his remarks, the VC started off by giving a detailed background of the University to help the 1st year students understand the prestigious nature of TU-K.
He urged the new students to take pride in having satisfied the University Senate and The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), to secure placement to a leading institution of higher learning in this country.
The VC said TU-K has some of the best facilities for the study of humanities and social sciences, and is ranked amongst the top ten universities country-wide.
“As freshers admitted to the University today, you have come through the Senate and KUCCPs. The university has admitted you because it is satisfied that you are competent to pursue your studies,” stated Prof. Aduol.
“You have thus been admitted to a very unique institution and this is a very unique phase in your life, you have to note that a university is not just an extension of high school but rather it is a collection of scholars and students meeting in pursuit of knowledge,” he added.
The VC further asked freshers to appreciate their academic freedom and avoid misinterpreting the term by engaging in illicit activities. “Academic freedom has three dimensions, there is the freedom for research, teaching and learning.”
Prof. Aduol, reiterated that the first years should use their time to accomplish their academic studies within the academic calendar.
“It takes proper time management, hard work, patience, and discipline for a student to successfully navigate through university education,” stated the VC.
He also mentioned Industry-Based Learning as an important part of their studies in training and a compulsory activity for every student. In addition to the above, the Vice-Chancellor told the freshers to have an interest in scholarly enquiries and learning, ask questions where relevant, read ahead and keep in touch with lecturers. The 1st year students were also cautioned to conduct themselves with high integrity and decorum and avoid bad company.
The July 2022 intake, welcomed a total of 2597 students comprising of 1,872 Government-sponsored and 725 self-sponsored.
The 7-day orientation programmed began with face -to-face at Faculty-level, that was led by the Executive Deans, Directors of Schools and Academic Team Leaders. The Executive Deans talked to them about the rules and regulations governing their stay on campus. For instance, attendance of class for every student should not be less than 75 per cent for one to be allowed to sit examinations.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Paul Shiundu who also addressed the students during the orientation programme, gave them valuable advice on how to excel in their academics as well as social life. He also stressed on proper time management and self-discipline.
The orientation programme introduces new students to the rigors of academic life in the university, and the opportunities, responsibilities and resources available to assist them with connecting with the community of their peers and the larger campus.
