• The Chancellor, Egerton University, Dr. Narendra Raval (Guru)
• The Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala
• The Principal Secretary, State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak
• The Chairman of Egerton University Council, Prof. James K. Sang
• Members of the University Council
• The Vice Chancellor, Egerton University, Prof. Isaac O. Kibwage
• The Deputy Vice Chancellors of Egerton University
• Honourable Members of Parliament present
• Distinguished Guests
• Staff and Students
• Ladies and Gentlemen
I am pleased to join you this morning for the Open Day and the launch of the book “Thus Until: A History of Egerton University (1939–2019)”, as the University marks 86 years of service to Kenya and beyond.
Egerton University’s longevity is not accidental. Institutions that endure do so because they adapt, renew themselves and remain anchored to clear public purpose. As Government, we view such institutions as strategic national assets central to human capital development, research, innovation and social cohesion.
The Ministry of Education continues to pursue reforms aimed at strengthening higher education governance, quality assurance, research productivity and financial sustainability. These reforms are designed not to weaken universities but to position them to thrive in a rapidly changing global and national environment. Public universities must increasingly demonstrate relevance, integrity, efficiency and measurable impact.
The launch of “Thus Until” is therefore more than a commemorative act. Institutional history serves a strategic function: it reminds leaders and policymakers that decisions taken today will define the trajectory of universities for decades to come. Sound governance, responsible stewardship of public resources and protection of academic standards remain non-negotiable.
The launch of “Thus Until” is therefore more than a commemorative act. Institutional history serves a strategic function: it reminds leaders and policymakers that decisions taken today will define the trajectory of universities for decades to come. Sound governance, responsible stewardship of public resources and protection of academic standards remain non-negotiable.
As we look ahead, Government expects universities to deepen collaboration with industry, strengthen research that addresses national priorities and align training with the skills required for economic transformation. Equally, we expect university leadership to foster stability, accountability and an environment that allows scholars and students to excel.
To the Council and Management of Egerton University, I urge you to continues exercising leadership that is firm, forward-looking and grounded in the public interest, to faculty and researchers, your work remains central to national development. To students, you carry the responsibility of translating knowledge into service.
I commend Egerton university for sustaining its mission over 86 years, congratulate all who contributed to this publication and reaffirm the Government’s commitment to a strong, responsive and globally competitive higher education sector.
I thank you.
