Egerton University Vice Chancellor Challenges Maseno Pharmacy Finalists to Pursue Excellence and Ethical Practice
Prof. Kibwage delivered the keynote address during the Pharmacy Students' Association of Maseno University (PSAMU) Pharmacy Finalists' Dinner 2026, held at the Grand Royal Swiss Hotel under the theme, "First of Many: Inspiring Excellence in Pharmacy Practice."
The colourful event brought together university leaders, faculty members, representatives of the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK), alumni, industry partners and graduating Bachelor of Pharmacy students to celebrate the successful completion of one of the country's most demanding academic programmes.
In his address, Prof. Kibwage congratulated the finalists for reaching a significant milestone, describing their success as a testament to resilience, discipline and determination.
He urged the future pharmacists to uphold the highest ethical standards, prioritize patient welfare and remain committed to evidence-based practice throughout their professional careers.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that pharmacy is a dynamic profession that requires continuous learning to keep pace with advances in pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare technologies and emerging public health challenges.
The Professor of Pharmacy noted that professional success would depend not only on academic excellence but also on integrity, humility, teamwork and adaptability.
Prof. Kibwage further encouraged the participants to cultivate strong professional networks, mentor one another and become ambassadors of excellence in the communities they will serve, adding that collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential in improving patient outcomes and strengthening health systems.
Earlier, Prof. Paul Apollo Maima, Dean of the School of Pharmacy at Maseno University, welcomed the distinguished guests and congratulated the graduating class for successfully completing the rigorous five-year Bachelor of Pharmacy programme. He encouraged the finalists, particularly the female students, to embrace collaboration rather than competition, urging them to nurture friendships and professional relationships that would enable them to grow together throughout their careers.
Prof. Apollo also welcomed representatives of the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya and other stakeholders whose continued partnership supports pharmacy education and professional development in Kenya.
Also addressing the gathering, Prof. Stephen W. O. Ogendo, Dean of the School of Medicine at Maseno University, reflected on his own academic journey, noting that he had spent 38 years at the University of Nairobi. He warmly recognized Prof. Kibwage as a longtime colleague, classmate and age mate with whom they studied at the University of Nairobi's College of Health Sciences.
Prof. Ogendo acknowledged the excitement and anxiety that accompany the completion of the pharmacy programme, particularly the anticipation of final examination results. He encouraged the students to remain confident in their abilities while reminding them that the transition from university life to professional practice presents both opportunities and challenges.
He urged the learners to maintain the friendships and professional networks they had established during their years of study, observing that modern communication technologies make it easier than ever to stay connected. He emphasized that teamwork, mutual support and lifelong professional relationships would be invaluable throughout their careers.
Prof. Ogendo further advised the future pharmacists to uphold professionalism, compassion and respect in every patient interaction, noting that first impressions often shape lasting relationships between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.
Prof Ogendo went on to encourage them to remain active members of the Maseno University alumni network once the graduate and consider returning for postgraduate studies as the university continues expanding its postgraduate pharmacy programmes.
Representing the Vice Chancellor of Maseno University, the Deputy Vice Chancellor commended the finalists for their resilience and commitment throughout the demanding programme. The School of Pharmacy was lauded for producing competent professionals equipped to contribute meaningfully to Kenya's healthcare system and reaffirmed the university's commitment to quality training and research.
The dinner also featured presentations by industry partners, including Square Pharmaceuticals and KMA Sacco, who introduced the graduating students to opportunities in professional practice, career development and financial planning.
The learners now look forward to graduating and join industry through internships, professional registration and careers in pharmacy with renewed confidence.
The dinner served not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a platform for mentorship and inspiration, reaffirming the graduates' readiness to advance pharmaceutical practice and contribute to improved healthcare outcomes in Kenya and beyond.
