Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) celebrated its 13th graduation ceremony today Tuesday, November 26, 2024. The ceremony also featured the installation of Hon. Jared Kangwana as the Second Chancellor and was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration (Honoris Causa) of the Technical University of Kenya. Dr Kangwana presided over the 13th graduation ceremony in which, 3,253 candidates graduated with PhDs, degrees, diplomas and certificates. Ahead of the graduation ceremony, the University launched its 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.
Present during the ceremony were Mr Fredrick Ndambuki who represented the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Mr. Julius Ogamba, Chairman of Council, Dr. Idle Farah, Members of the University Council, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Benedict Mutua, Prof Nyariki, VC for Murang’a University, Prof Mary Ndungu, VC, Kirinyaga University, Prof. Linus Gitonga, VC, Karatina University, Prof. Nyonje who represented the VC of the Open University of Kenya, Prof. Elijah Omwenga, Mr Benson Mburu who represented the NACOSTI CEO, Dr Mary Manana, Nature Lover Consultant, representatives from various government agencies, parents, guardians and sponsors, staff and graduands
In his address, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mutua, congratulated the graduands and commended them for their hard work and perseverance. He also expressed gratitude to the faculty for their commitment to providing quality education and fostering an environment of innovation and skill-building. "Our dedication to excellence in teaching continues to empower students, equipping them with the skills needed to create a brighter future," Prof. Mutua said.
He highlighted TU-K’s progress in research, particularly the focus on technology and artificial intelligence (AI). "We are transforming TU-K into a research hub, working with the community to develop solutions, including a Diabetes Type 2 Treatment Project," said the VC. He also emphasized the University's strong global presence, with TU-K maintaining a top 10 Universities ranking in by Webometrics over the past few years.
Prof. Mutua outlined the strategic plan as a roadmap to achieving the university’s long-term objectives, stressing the importance of resource mobilisation and transparency in managing funding. "Through research and innovation, we will continue to drive growth, and we are committed to publicly sharing how the university utilizes its funds," he stated.
Dr. Idle Farah, Chairman of the Council, praised TU-K's transformative journey over the past year, citing critical reforms in administration, finance, and academics that have enhanced the university’s systems.
He encouraged the graduands to use their degrees not just as qualification but as a tool for solving problems, driving change, and creating value. “Let integrity and excellence guide you in your future endeavors,” Dr. Farah urged the new graduates.
“Your success will inspire future generations, and your challenges will build resilience.” He concluded
Mr Ndambuki, representing the Cabinet Secretary for Education, congratulated Hon. Kangwana on his appointment as Chancellor, and expressed confidence in his leadership. He emphasized the importance of the University's strategic plan and how it would guide TU-K toward success. "The well-defined goals in the strategic plan will help the University remain focused and move forward," he said.
Mr. Ndambuki also addressed the recent conclusion of the academic strike, announcing the return to normalcy and encouraged both staff and students to resume their activities. "Universities are at the heart of discovery and innovation. TU-K has made remarkable progress in these areas, and we encourage the University to continue addressing the nation's socio-economic challenges through research and partnerships with industry and Government."
