Under the theme; “Shaping a Sustainable Future with Knowledge and Innovation, “Kaimosi Friends University held its 3rd graduation ceremony on 29th November, 2024 during which 896 graduands were conferred with degrees and awarded diplomas and certificates. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Bernadette Mungai, Chairperson of Council, who was installed the Chancellor for the occasion under Section 38(5) of the Universities Act, 2012, and subsequent amendments.
Among notable graduands was the Deputy Governor of Vihiga County, Hon. Wilberforce Kitiezo who was conferred with a Masters degree in Business Administration. It was a moment of happiness as the University conferred the first PhD to Mr. Lidovolo Patrick Malongo, who completed his studies within the stipulated duration.
The Chief Guest during the Ceremony was the Western Regional Commissioner, Mr. Samson Irungu Macharia, who in his speech encouraged the graduands and noted that the University had made admirable strides in enhancing its infrastructure, especially in relation to the security of its staff and students.
Dr. Bernadette Mungai commended the graduands for their hard work and dedication, highlighting their potential as innovators, researchers and entrepreneurs in the dynamic job market. She stressed the importance of utilizing the knowledge and skills that the graduands have acquired at KAFU to foster a sustainable future. She further challenged the graduands to be brand ambassadors of KAFU and urged them to remain committed to their personal and professional growth. She expressed confidence that their contributions would positively impact their communities and society, ultimately contributing to the development of Kenya.
Representing the Cabinet Secretary and Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Wahome Rureri congratulated the KAFU graduands and underscored the role of education as an utmost equalizer of society because it opens up a whole world of opportunities and possibilities to learners.
He emphasized the Ministry of Education’s pursuit to provide and coordinate competency based equitable education, training and research for sustainable development. Dr. Rureri urged the graduates to uphold integrity and accountability, be focused on growth and contribute positively to national building. He challenged them to utilize their acquired skills to address societal challenges and serve their communities well.
In his speech, the Acting Vice-Chancellor informed that:
“Today, we are proud to present 896 graduands from the following four out of our five schools:
- School of Business and Economics with 77 graduands,
- School of Computing and Information Technology with 28 graduands;
- School of Science with 58 Graduands, and
- School of Education and Social Sciences with 733 Graduands.
- Our fifth School, that is, the School of Health Sciences will not be graduating students this year because the pioneer students are in their fourth year. “
In conclusion, Prof. Peter N. Mwita applauded the Class of 2024 on achieving a major academic milestone. He underlined that they were leaving KAFU as empowered individuals, equipped to shape the future with knowledge and innovation, aligning with the theme of the 3rd Graduation Ceremony. He highlighted their crucial role in advancing societal progress and encouraged them to approach the future with boldness, creativity, and a commitment to positive impact. In conclusion, he urged the graduates to embrace the future with courage and optimism, to promote a sustainable future.