Dr. Narendra Guru Raval,Chancellor of Egerton University, has congratulated the graduating cohort 48 during the university’s graduation ceremony. In his address, he emphasized that every success comes with challenges, urging graduates to embrace resilience and hard work.
“There is no good thing without a problem. Congratulations on your graduation. I know you just want to graduate and go, but the long speeches may bore you,” Dr. Raval remarked, injecting humor into the occasion.
The Chancellor noted that graduation marked the culmination of years of dedication and perseverance. However, he reminded graduates that job opportunities might not come immediately, encouraging them to take risks, venture into uncharted territories, and use their skills to help others selflessly. “When you help others without selfish reasons, that’s the prayer,” he stated.
Dr. Raval advised fresh graduates to seize the opportunity to innovate and explore entrepreneurship, pointing out that it is easier to take risks before settling into the stability of salaried employment. He warned against indulging in alcoholism, advocating instead for spiritual growth and the pursuit of moral values. “Rather than going to drinking bars, go to church and seek Jesus Christ,” he urged.
Drawing from biblical teachings, he encouraged graduates to seek riches of the heart rather than material wealth. “If your friend has a Mercedes Benz and you don’t even have a bicycle, don’t be intimidated. It’s better to be rich at heart,” he said.
Taking a strong stance against the misconception of politics as a pathway to wealth, Dr. Raval cautioned students against studying merely to become politicians. He further advised graduates to gain experience through internships, volunteering, and industrial attachments.
To engineering graduates, the Chancellor extended a special invitation to explore opportunities within his 18 industries across the country. He also called on institutional partners like KCB Bank Group to support the university by constructing lecture halls and personally pledged to donate furniture.
Dr. Raval underscored the importance of marriage as a foundational institution, advising graduates to choose supportive and intelligent spouses. “Marriage has its bumps, but with the right partner, you can navigate them,” he said, offering fatherly wisdom.
Celebrating the university's diversity, Dr. Raval encouraged graduates to connect with the 21 nationalities represented at Egerton University and explore opportunities abroad, including in neighboring South Sudan. He concluded by welcoming the newly appointed University Council and pledging his support for their leadership.
