Mount Kenya University (MKU) Chancellor, Prof. John Struthers, has called on graduates to become champions of social transformation, ethical leadership and inclusivity as they enter the next phase of their lives.
Speaking during MKU’s 29th Graduation Ceremony, Prof. Struthers said young people must embrace innovation, adaptability and resilience to thrive in a rapidly changing world shaped by technological advancement and global connectivity.
He lauded the university for strengthening its global partnerships and expanding investments in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cloud computing, 5G and the Internet of Things. He also hailed the extension of MKU’s tenure as the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) SDG 9 Hub Chair on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure until 2030, describing it as a testament to the institution’s growing international influence.
The chancellor praised the university’s continued investment in emerging technologies and industry-responsive education. The operationalization of the Cloud Computing Laboratory through collaboration with Xinyada ICT Company and leading Chinese higher education institutions, together with continued advancements in Artificial Intelligence, robotics, 5-G technology and Internet-of-Things, demonstrate MKU’s unwavering commitment to preparing graduates for the opportunities and challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution,’’ he added.
The Chancellor thanked government agencies, development partners and philanthropists for supporting students through scholarships and research initiatives that continue to expand access to quality higher education.
Prof. Struthers urged the graduands to use their knowledge and skills in service of society and to uphold integrity and purpose in their careers. He also paid tribute to parents, guardians, lecturers and mentors whose support made the graduates’ achievements possible.
He expressed confidence that the new graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the workforce and help build stronger communities, prosperous nations and a better future for all.
The ceremony, held under the theme “Youth as Architects of Social Change, Ethical Governance and Inclusivity,” highlighted MKU’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and innovators capable of addressing global challenges. The fete was hosted at the MKU Graduation Pavilion, Happy Valley Grounds in Thika town.
Jubilee Holdings Group CEO and Guest speaker, Dr. Julius Kipng’etich, challenged the MKU Class of 2026 to become champions of social transformation, ethical leadership and inclusivity as they enter the world of work.
Dr. Kipng’etich urged graduates to seize emerging opportunities, embrace innovation, and create jobs rather than wait for employment, emphasizing the critical role of young people in shaping Kenya’s future. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he reminded graduands that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”.
He told the graduates that their education should be applied to solving societal challenges, strengthening institutions, and driving sustainable development. He also encouraged them to embrace lifelong learning, harness emerging technologies responsibly, and uphold integrity in their personal and professional lives.
Dr Kipngetich told the learners that the Higher Education Financing portal now processes government loans and scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate study in Kenya, including a HELB postgraduate scholarship of up to Kshs450,000 for a PhD and Kshs 200,000 for a Master’s degrees. Globally, opportunities such as the Chevening Scholarship from the UK, DAAD and EU Funding, the Fulbright programme from the United States, the Commonwealth Scholarships, and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program fund thousands of African students, Kenyans included, for fully funded study abroad every single year.
‘‘In June 2026, the EU-Equity bank programme was launched to give over 100 Kenyan students access to global master’s research and education opportunities that can help develop globally competitive leaders. Last week, 33 Kenyan recipients of the 2026 Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s scholarships were flagged off. Explore these opportunities,’’ he added.
“Go out and be the architects of change that is social, governance that is ethical and success that is inclusive,” Dr. Kipng’etich told the graduating class, urging them to lead with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to building a better society for all.
He said a graduate of commerce may end up running a thriving private clinic alongside the doctors, while an engineer can walk away from construction sites and build a flourishing farm. ‘‘Your degree is a foundation, and your certificate has no limit in where your usefulness can take you, ‘’ he said.
Change via innovation
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi challenged the graduates to become agents of social transformation, ethical leadership and innovation in an increasingly digital world. He said MKU continues to strengthen its academic programmes through curriculum reviews, integration of Artificial Intelligence, and digital skills training to prepare learners for the modern workforce.
The VC said the university has also expanded its postgraduate offerings with programmes in emerging fields such as mental health, psychiatric studies and health records management to address evolving societal and professional needs.
He highlighted MKU’s growing international reputation in research and innovation, citing major global research grants and outstanding student achievements in innovation competitions across Africa, China, Germany and the United States. To strengthen research capacity, MKU partnered with the Africa Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) to train 46 academic staff through the Africa Research and Support Hub programme.
‘‘In the first quarter of 2026, the University secured several prestigious international research grants extending to 2029. These include funding from the Gates Foundation, DAAD, Wellcome Trust, and Erasmus+ Mobility exchange Programme, supporting research in maternal health and employability,’’ he added.
Beyond academics, the university continues to excel in sports, drama and disability inclusion initiatives, reflecting its commitment to holistic education and equal opportunities for all learners. He congratulated the graduands and urged them to uphold integrity, excellence and service as they contribute to national development and global progress.
In recognition of excellence in research governance, MKU was recently awarded the Good Financial Grant Practice (GFGP) Gold Tier Certification by the African Academy of Sciences and Global Grant Community, demonstrating compliance with international grant management standards.
MKU council chairman, Dr. Vincent Gaitho, called on the graduates to become champions of social transformation, ethical leadership and inclusivity as they transition into professional and community leadership roles.
Dr. Gaitho said graduation marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and continuous learning. He urged graduates to confront pressing societal challenges, including poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice, through innovation, resilience and compassion. “Let your knowledge serve a purpose beyond personal success by uplifting communities and creating a better future for all,” he said.
Dr. Gaitho underscored the importance of integrity, accountability, transparency, and service, noting that sustainable development depends on principled leaders committed to the common good. He further encouraged graduates to champion diversity and inclusivity, describing them as essential pillars of peaceful, cohesive, and progressive societies.
Highlighting the ceremony’s theme, “Youth as Architects of Social Change, Ethical Governance and Inclusivity,” he challenged the graduating class to embrace their role as catalysts for positive transformation.
“Your voice matters and your leadership is needed now more than ever. Go forth as agents of positive change, champions of ethical leadership, and advocates for inclusivity,” he told the graduates.
Dr. Gaitho also encouraged the new graduates to remain actively engaged with Mount Kenya University through its alumni network as they pursue career growth, professional development, and lifelong learning opportunities.
Peterson Moturi, who worked as a watchman in Nairobi graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree. Director of Alumni Relations, Ms. Virginiah Kinankau, congratulated him and welcomed him into the MKU Alumni Association. In sports, MKU performed strongly at the Kenya Universities.
Alumni Association Chairman Gikera Kahara urged graduands to embrace resilience, integrity and networking as they transition into the professional world. He welcomed them into the alumni community, encouraged mentorship and social impact initiatives, and emphasized that strong character and meaningful networks are essential for long-term success.
Other guests included Mount Kigali University Chancellor, Prof. Egara Kabaji and Vice-Chancellor, Mount Kigali University, Dr. Martin Kimemia, the Provincial Secretary of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) and Assistant Bishop of ACK Diocese of All Saints, Rt. Rev. Prof. Joseph Denge Galgalo, the chairman, Mount Kigali University Governing Body, Dr. Innocent Mugisha, members of the MKU council and Mount Kigali University Governing Body.
