The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Benedict Mutua, has urged all first years to remain focused on their studies and avoid being used by politicians for self-gain. Prof. Mutua was speaking to first year students at the Main Hall while wrapping up the five-day orientation exercise. He stressed that the University is situated at the Central Business District (CBD), which is volatile hence the need for students to be conscious of their environment.
“The world is not safe, and we are situated right at the CBD of the capital city. A number of activities take place in a short period, and it is sad that there are people who are ready to take advantage of you,” said the Vice-Chancellor.
“Avoid distractions, you are a treasure trove, do not allow yourselves to be used by politicians, and be careful not to be lured into cults and bad company,” he stressed. The remarks were timely, following a stretched period of mass protests in the country led by Gen Z advocating for political reforms.
The Vice-Chancellor further stressed that all freshmen and women should instead focus on attaining their academic goals by ensuring that they managed their time well. He likened time management to an open cheque where every student has to input the figures that they want, and in their case the figures represent their studies.
“There is power in focus, so set your eyes on what brought you here. The period that you have here is so short and as such how you spend your time matters,” said Prof. Mutua.
The Vice-Chancellor was also keen to encourage the first year students to take advantage of the new Higher Education Funding model so that they can apply for scholarships and loans (tuition and upkeep) to support them in their studies based on their level of need.
“We have a system that works, those who have applied for scholarships should not fear as the Government will disburse them. Those who are yet to apply please do so, and if you get an amount that is unsatisfactory you can still appeal the decision,” Prof. Mutua emphasized. He further encouraged the students to utilize the amount allocated wisely.
In addition to these, the Vice-Chancellor informed the students that the University had enough highly trained and qualified academic staff including renowned professors and scholars who were committed to ensure that they succeeded in their studies. He also encouraged the students to be innovative and come up with solutions whenever they were confronted with challenges.
“The University will provide all students with the support structures to excel in their studies. We have Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Executive Deans, Director of Schools, Academic Team Leaders, Dean of Students and Administrators across all departments to help you conceptualize your innovative ideas and make good use of them. We have labs and workshops, so that you are not only trained on the theoretical concepts but also gain hands-on skills. We also have innovative hubs where you can commercialize your ideas so that you launch your careers early in your academic life,” said Prof. Mutua.
Prof. Mutua further encouraged the students to exploit other talents by engaging themselves in co-curricula activities and clubs so that they can enrich their experience while at the University. “Embrace diversity and different cultures. You are also encouraged to take advantage of social and academic opportunities as well as community service for personal growth,” Prof. Mutua emphasized.
He also mentioned that the University had partnerships with industry players to ensure that when students completed their studies, they smoothly transition into the world of work. The students were cautioned against missing classes because they will be barred from sitting their exams if they do not meet the requisite class attendance threshold.
In conclusion, the Vice-Chancellor said, “Thank you for choosing TU-K, I commit to support you, and we are giving you our blessing as you start your academic studies. We assure you that you are going to make it.”
