Kaimosi Friends University ushered in its 2025/2026 academic year on Friday with a colourful matriculation ceremony that formally welcomed 2,587 first-year students into the institution. The event, marked by inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and pledges of continued support from national and local leaders.

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development, Dr. Jane Kere Imbunya, delivers her address during the Kaimosi Friends University Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic year.

The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development, Dr. Jane Imbunya, was the chief guest. In an emotional address, she recounted her journey with the university, saying that Kaimosi Friends University had played a decisive role in shaping the leader she is today. She urged the freshmen to take their studies seriously and to embrace discipline, resilience, and integrity as guiding values.

“It is Kaimosi Friends University that made me who I am today, I began here as a young lecturer, later became Dean in the School of Education, and today I stand before you as Principal Secretary. This university gave me the grounding, the resilience, and the mentorship that built my path. That is why I can tell you with conviction—if you remain disciplined, focused, and true to your calling, Kaimosi Friends University will transform you too.”

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development, Dr. Jane Imbunya, shares a joyful dance with the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Peter Mwita during the 2025/2026 Matriculation Ceremony at Kaimosi Friends University.

Dr. Imbunya also commended the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mwita, for steering the institution to new heights of research, innovation, and infrastructure development. She said the progress at Kaimosi Friends University  demonstrated not only strong leadership but also the government’s broader vision of expanding access to higher education.

The day’s programme opened with the Vice-Chancellor’s procession, followed by the singing of the national and university anthems. When he took the podium, Prof. Mwita welcomed the new students with warmth and challenged them to approach their academic journey with courage and a spirit of innovation.

“Today is not just a day of ceremony—it is a day of promise. Do not just seek certificates; seek solutions. Do not just dream; invent. Do not just chase jobs; chase impact. When people speak of this university, let them say: ‘Here was a place where young men and women were not just taught but transformed.’” Prof. Mwita declared

Kaimosi Friends University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peter N. Mwita, delivering his keynote address during the 2025/2026 Matriculation Ceremony at the University Hockey Pitch.

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the remarkable growth in admissions, noting that 2,352 students had already enrolled this year, a figure projected to reach 2,587 once data entry is finalized. This represented a sharp rise from 1,905 students last year, continuing a decade-long trajectory that has seen the university expand from just 235 students in 2014 to more than 9,000 today.

Prof. Mwita also outlined major infrastructure projects designed to improve learning and student life. These include a 9,000-square-metre, five-storey ultra-modern library now 73 per cent complete, specialized laboratories in science and health, a strengthened ICT backbone with 34 new wireless access points, and a 2.9-kilometer perimeter wall supported by street lighting and paved walkways for student safety. He further revealed that a new Student Centre and expanded hostel capacity are underway to enhance student welfare

Hamisi Constituency Member of Parliament Dr. Charles Gimose was also present and pledged to support the university’s continued development. He urged the students to remain focused and to give their best during their studies.

Hamisi Constituency Member of Parliament, Dr. Charles Gimose, addressing first-year students during the 2025/2026 Matriculation Ceremony at Kaimosi Friends University.

“Work hard and give your best, As your representative, I want to assure you that I will continue to support this university. I pledge to install floodlights here at Kaimosi Friends University to improve lighting and strengthen security, because a safe student is a confident learner.” Dr. Gimose said

Beyond academics, the ceremony also showcased Kaimosi Friends University ’s vibrant cultural and artistic life. Students staged energetic performances in music, dance, and drama, highlighting the diversity of talent within the institution. Prof. Mwita encouraged students to embrace co-curricular activities as part of their holistic development.

“Kaimosi Friends University is more than lecture halls and laboratories—it is a home for talent, creativity, and leadership. I encourage you to join a club, play a sport, sing in the choir, or act on stage. These experiences will sharpen your character, reveal hidden talents, and prepare you for leadership in the wider world.” Said Prof. Mwita.

The ceremony concluded with leaders urging the new students to see their admission not only as a personal achievement but also as an opportunity to transform society. With the establishment of Kobujoi Campus, expansion of digital learning platforms, and investments in science, technology, and climate research, Kaimosi Friends University  signaled its intent to remain at the forefront of higher education in Kenya.

A section of first-year students keenly following proceedings and capturing memorable moments during the 2025/2026 Matriculation Ceremony at Kaimosi Friends University.

As the students took their matriculation oath, Prof. Mwita left them with a parting challenge:

“Carry yourselves with dignity, curiosity, and courage. Walk with purpose, serve with humility, and learn with passion. May you be the generation that plants trees under whose shade others will sit.”

The 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony not only marked the beginning of an academic journey for more than 2,500 new students but also reaffirmed Kaimosi Friends University ’s enduring vision—“Always the Spring of Knowledge.”