The New Students Association of the Technical University of Kenya, SATUK Council, and Board have been sworn into office. Nabangi Alex Wanyonyi is the new chairperson and is deputized by Kimeu Lydia Mutinda. The ceremony was conducted by the University Secretary and Chief Legal Officer Ms. Ruth Kirwa, and attended by the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Benedict Mutua, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Research, Technology and Development (RTD) Prof. Alfred Orina among other members of the University Management.
Prof. Mutua congratulated the leaders for their win and appreciated the students for participating in a free, fair, and credible election organised by the TU-K Electoral Board in conjunction with the Independent Election Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
He termed the election unique, harmonious, and peaceful, coming at a time when SATUK had acquired a new constitution. He added that the University Council and Management were impressed with the outcome.
“Students demonstrated maturity and responsibility in their campaigns and during voting. When I look at the SATUK Council and Board, I see the face of Kenya and gender rule. Which is ethical. You have made me proud,” said the Vice-Chancellor.
Prof. Mutua asked the leaders to remain guided by the transparency of the SATUK constitution and discharge their duties diligently. He challenged them to observe virtues such as accountability, resilience, integrity, effectiveness, and efficiency. He urged them to ensure that all students have a conducive learning environment.
“Make a difference as a leader, forget about those who opposed you and serve without discrimination. We want the best for you and as management, we will work together in resolving challenges that bedevil us as TU-K family.”
Prof. Orina urged student leaders to be at the forefront of advancing the university mandate, which stands on the pillars of Teaching, Learning and Community.
He emphasised that they stick to their core mandate of academic excellence.
“Please ensure that academic programmes run without interruption. Focus on what brought you to the university and maintain excellent performance.” He said, thanking the previous office for their performance.
The Dean of Students Prof. Omondi Oketch, asked the leaders to move as a team and ensure that they take the university to the next level. He added that the students would be taken through orientation.
The SATUK Chairperson thanked the students for electing him and conducting a peaceful election. He promised to work with the management and the university community in addressing student issues.
“We shall continue with the projects initiated by my predecessor and work with the management, to resolve student issues. For instance, on bursary allocation and the opening of the student center,” he said.
Seven (7) members of the SATUK Council and eight (8) for the SATUK Board were sworn in. The positions of the Male Representative from the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology (FAST) and that of Representative of International Students, will be resolved soon. For the first time in history, the university witnessed the swearing in of a Representative of Persons Living with Disability (PLWD). The mantle has been bestowed on Hassan Leila Abdi.
