EGERTON
UNIVERSITY
DELIVERED ON FRIDAY, 29th Dec, 2024
DURING THE 48TH GRADUATION CEREMONY
- Chancellor, Egerton University, Dr Narendra Raval (Guru)
- Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Education, Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba
- The Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education & Research, Ministry of Education, Dr Beatrice Inyangala
- Chairman, Egerton University Council,
- Chairpersons of Councils of other Universities
- Council Members, Egerton University
- Vice-Chancellors of other Universities present
- Deputy Vice Chancellors
- Members of the University Senate
- Senior Government Officials, National and County
- Members of Staff, the 48thgraduating Graduating Class, Parents and Guardians
- Ladies and Gentlemen,
I extend a warm welcome to each of you to this significant occasion, the 48th Graduation Ceremony of Egerton University.
This day is a milestone, not just for the three thousand five hundred and forty (3,540) graduands we are celebrating, but also for the families, communities, and mentors who have supported them. Today, we honour the completion of academic journeys, spanning diplomas, postgraduate diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorates.
The conferment of thirty-one (31) PhDs, one hundred and seventy two (172) Master’s degrees, three thousand one hundred and eighty (3,180) Bachelor’s degrees, and the award of five (5) Postgraduate Diplomas, and one hundred and fifty two (152) Diplomas underscores the depth and breadth of education that Egerton University offers.
Graduation is not merely the end of an academic pursuit; it is a launchpad to a future filled with possibilities. To our graduands, you are the embodiment of Egerton University’s mission to transform lives through innovation, scholarship, and community impact. Today, we celebrate you, your resilience, and your hard-earned success.
Mr Chancellor sir,
Egerton University continues to demonstrate excellence in academics, research, community engagement, and sustainability.
This year, Egerton University has reinforced its leadership in environmental conservation. We successfully handed over a conserved forested area at the source of the Njoro River in Entiyani to Narok County, alongside rehabilitated sections of the Njoro River to Nakuru County. These initiatives reflect our enduring commitment to the preservation of vital ecosystems and the sustainable management of natural resources.
Equally noteworthy is our continued advocacy for environmental awareness through the 9th Annual Mau-Egerton University Cross Country, popularly known as “Run for the Mau.” Partnering with organizations such as KCB Bank Group, Athletics Kenya and local communities among others, Run for the Mau has united diverse stakeholders in the critical task of restoring the Mau Forest Complex, contributing significantly to the Presidential Directive on National Tree Growing and Restoration Campaign of growing 15 billion trees by 2032.
The Egerton University School Visiting and Career Event Programmes have significantly expanded our outreach to secondary schools across Kenya. This year alone, we engaged with twenty-two thousand, three hundred and fifty-four (22,354) students from three hundred and twenty nine (329) schools, introducing them to the diverse opportunities available at Egerton University and inspiring them to join our institution.
The Visiting Programme has not only impacted prospective students but has also positively influenced our own students, technical staff, and academic staff by enhancing interpersonal, communication, and interaction skills. It has fostered positive collaboration, participation in mentorship programs through invitations, networking, and building valuable connections.
Career events, both internal and external, are conducted to sensitize secondary school students about our academic programmes, available sponsorships and scholarships, minimum subject requirements, KUCCPS cut-off points, and the full range of student services we offer. These efforts aim to attract prospective applicants to select Egerton University as their first choice. This year, our internal career event attracted eight (8) schools, while we actively participated in eleven (11) external career events with the participation of various schools.
Mr Chancellor sir,
On the technological front, Egerton University has taken bold steps to enhance operational efficiency through the implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software. This digital transformation streamlines processes, enabling us to better serve our students and stakeholders. Additionally, our ongoing ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certification journey underscores our commitment to quality and global best practices.
We continue to rehabilitate our infrastructure such as the renovation of Lecture Theatres T1 and T2, restorations of the Ruwenzori Hostels and the ongoing repairs in Kilimo Hall at the Main Campus is a major milestone, featuring structural enhancements, upgraded drainage, air conditioning systems, and state-of-the-art public address and computer systems. These improvements are part of a broader and ongoing strategy to modernize our facilities.
A survey conducted among first-year students revealed that 67.4% are enrolled in their preferred programs, citing Egerton University’s reputation and academic diversity as decisive factors. Moreover, a graduate tracer study, which surveyed alumni who graduated between 2006 and 2023, affirmed the employability of our alumni, particularly those from the Faculty of Science, who continue to excel in their respective fields.
Mr Chancellor sir,
Egerton University remains a hub of research innovation and community impact.
This year, we concluded a four year transformative Groundnut Project in Turkana County in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This project provided local farmers, including refugees, with aflatoxin-free groundnut seeds. Its success has enhanced food security and strengthened community resilience, showcasing the power of research-driven solutions to address societal challenges.
Aligned with the Government of Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), our Agricultural Tractor Operator Training Program has empowered women in nine counties by equipping them with mechanized farming skills.
Egerton University’s research portfolio continues to grow, with the institution securing Ksh 900 million in research funding for the 2023/2024 academic year.
As part of our research achievements, we have successfully registered and commercialized 12 groundbreaking innovations, including aflatoxin-free seeds and drought-resistant seeds. Additionally, we have applied for the registration of 13 patents, further cementing our commitment to advancing agricultural and technological solutions.
In addition, the University continues to collaborate with esteemed partners, including the Mastercard Foundation’s TAGDev 2.0 Program and the IKEA Foundation’s REFOOTURE Project. These partnerships are critical in driving impactful solutions in agriculture and food systems, showcasing the importance of collective efforts in addressing global challenges.
Mr Chancellor Sir,
I take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude for the Ksh 3 million in scholarships you have generously awarded to indigent students. This support has not only eased the financial burden on deserving students but has also enabled them to focus on their studies.
The Chinese Ambassador Scholarship doubled its beneficiaries this year, enabling 20 students to continue their studies. We thank Ambassador Zhou Pingjian for his unwavering support in transforming the lives of financially challenged students.
Moreover, we are grateful to our partners, including the KCB Foundation, M-PESA Foundation Academy, and Equity Group Foundation, as well as various religious institutions, community-based organizations, volunteers, and international partners. Such support is instrumental in ensuring access to education for underprivileged learners.
Mr Chancellor sir,
Our faculty members have achieved national recognition for their research excellence, earning prestigious awards and acknowledgments from various institutions. These honours highlight the exceptional talent and contributions of our academic community.
Cultural and academic achievements have also been significant. Egerton University proudly hosted the Kenya Universities Performing Arts Association (KUPAA) festival, where our students excelled across various categories. Additionally, our Faculty of Law emerged as top performers in the inaugural East African Moot Court Competition in Arusha, Tanzania, reinforcing the university’s reputation for academic and extracurricular excellence.
Mr Chancellor sir,
Financial sustainability and inclusivity remain central to our strategic priorities.
Egerton University’s Income Generating Units (IGUs) are on the upswing. The resurgence of the Egerton University Yoghurt, now enhanced with improved flavours and modern packaging, has been a standout success. Similarly, the Guilford Dairy Plant continues to blend commercial viability with hands-on training for Food Science students.
In addition, we have invested in assistive technologies and equipment designed to support persons with disabilities such as prosthetic equipment. These improvements are part of our broader commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential.
Mr Chancellor sir,
This momentous occasion would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of many. I wish to thank our faculty and staff for their dedication to teaching, research, and service. Their hard work ensures that Egerton University continues to shine as a center of excellence.
I also extend my gratitude to our partners, collaborators, and donors who have supported our mission. Your contributions enable us to transform lives, empower communities, and advance knowledge.
To the families and loved ones of our graduands, thank you for your unwavering support and sacrifice. Your encouragement has been instrumental in shaping the success we celebrate today.
Graduands,
To our graduands, today is a day of celebration and reflection. It is the culmination of years of hard work, determination, and sacrifice. As you step into the world, remember that you carry with you the values and traditions of Egerton University.
You are joining a proud network of alumni who are driving change across the globe. Embrace your future with confidence and a commitment to excellence. Be innovators, leaders, and changemakers. The world needs your talents, your courage, and your vision.
Never stop learning, never stop striving, and never forget that you are a part of the Egerton University family. Congratulations to the Class of 2024. Go forth, and may you shine brightly in all your endeavors.
