The Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) wrapped up its orientation week with a keynote address from the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Benedict Mutua. He challenged the new students to approach their university years with discipline, creativity, and purpose. Prof. Mutua began by paying tribute to parents and guardians for their commitment in ensuring their children joined university. He noted that some families had gone as far as selling land and other assets to cover tuition fees. “You are privileged to be here. Appreciate the effort that has been made to bring you to TU-K,” he told the first years.
Pointing to TU-K’s distinctive position as the only technical university located in the heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted its focus on hands-on training alongside academic study. He urged the students to embrace research and innovation as cornerstones of their career development.
“We live in an age of fast-changing technologies and smart gadgets. As young people, you are quick to adapt; therefore, turn that into an advantage,” he said, citing the Africa Tech Challenge currently hosted at TU-K, which attracted 56 participants from 12 African countries this year.
The Africa Tech Challenge (ATC) is an annual continental competition and training programme that equips African youth with technical skills, providing them with innovation opportunities. The challenge has been running for 10 years and has benefitted 1,300 participants from 13 African countries. The 2025 edition is centred on resource-constrained computing, challenging participants to design innovative, practical solutions using limited resources.
Prof. Mutua assured the incoming class of inclusivity, stressing that the university is a space for all genders and backgrounds. He further reminded the freshmen that the typical four to five years of study pass quickly and should be used wisely. “Focus on your studies, be innovative, remain open-minded, and reflect on how you relate to others. Make your time here count,” he advised.
The ceremony drew members of the University Management Board, including DVC Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Maurice Amutabi; DVC Research and Technology Development, Prof. Alfred Orina; and DVC Institutional Advancement and Enterprise, Prof. Paul Wambua. Executive Deans present were Prof. Cleophas Maende (Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment), Prof. Peter Matu (Faculty of Social Sciences and Technology), and Prof. Francis Gatheri (Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology). Directors of various directorates, departmental chairs, and other senior members of staff were also in attendance.
In a previous address, Prof. Amutabi delivered a related message, urging students to take charge of their futures from day one. He emphasised informed decision-making, the dangers of negative peer pressure, and the importance of striving for academic excellence.
The orientation also featured cultural performances organized by the Department of Creative Arts and Media and opening prayers led by Rev. Fr. Prof. John Ndikaru of the Department of Liberal, Development and International Studies. The orientation week ended on an inspiring note with the freshmen encouraged to seize each opportunity to shape their future.
