Kaimosi Friends University today held a vibrant post-election leadership retreat for all Kaimosi Friends University Students Association aspirants at the Tom Mboya Labour College bringing together students from both contesting parties and the outgoing Students Governing Council.

The retreat themed “Harmony in the Institution After Elections,” sought to foster unity between members of the two contesting parties following a highly competitive electoral period. It provided a platform for bonding, dialogue and the exchange of ideas to strengthen cohesion within student leadership.

Gracing the retreat was the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter Mwita who in his keynote address acknowledged the successful conclusion of the elections. He commended the fourth Kaimosi Friends University Students Association Electoral Commission chaired by Prof. Otsyula Joseph for steering a peaceful process, while noting the need for continuous improvement. He further revealed that measures are being put in place to facilitate the introduction of an electronic voting system in the next academic year.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Peter Mwita delivers his key note address during the retreat session

Prof. Mwita emphasized that the University Management continues to identify gaps to enhance service delivery by student leaders. He urged the incoming fourth Students Governing Body to develop clear and practical plans and to put in place measurable strategies to accomplish their objectives. Stressing the importance of innovation, he encouraged students to explore their strengths in different capacities, including co-curricular activities to enhance effective leadership.

“To enhance your service delivery, the University Management Board is always willing to support student leadership,” he noted.

In his concluding remarks, the Vice Chancellor called upon the leaders to embrace dialogue as it opens doors for sharing ideas and fostering peace. He encouraged the outgoing and incoming leaders, as well as the contenders, to work together towards creating a peaceful and inclusive environment for the student body.

Also present was the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Students Affairs and Research, Prof. Fred Amimo. He observed that harmony can only be achieved when leaders learn to manage their emotions after elections. He reminded them that the end of elections marks the beginning of leadership. He encouraged the incoming Student Governing Council to be ready to serve and mobilize solutions, while urging contenders to embrace alternative forms of leadership including constructive influence, opinion shaping, and holding leaders accountable responsibly.

 A section of students following through the conversations at the retreat

Addressing the students, Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Finance and Planning Prof. Thomas Kipkurgat described institutions of higher learning as citadels of leadership in Kenya. He affirmed that Kaimosi Friends University remains committed to nurturing future leaders through such forums. He congratulated all contestants, noting that leadership growth stems from such opportunities and urged the incoming Governing Council to represent the entire student body and advocate for the University by serving as exemplary leaders.

The students were further encouraged to commit themselves to promoting and protecting the peace and unity that has prevailed within the University. They were reminded that leadership is about winning trust through humility, transparency, accountability, and wisdom.

The retreat was unique and one of its kind since the inception of the University, marking a strong testament to its commitment to fostering peace and creating a friendly and inclusive environment for its learners. It concluded with an engaging plenary discussion, where students were given the opportunity to ask pertinent questions and share their views on areas they felt required improvement.

University top management led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Mwita, aspirants from both parties and outgoing Student Governing Council pose for a group photo

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