Thika, Kenya | 7 August 2026
Mount Kenya University (MKU) today celebrated its 29th Graduation Ceremony at the Graduation Pavilion, Happy Valley Grounds, Thika, under the theme “Youth as Architects of Social Change, Ethical Governance and Inclusivity.” The ceremony brought together distinguished guests, education stakeholders, parents, alumni, and thousands of graduands marking the successful completion of their academic journey.
Presiding over the ceremony, the Chancellor, Prof. John Struthers, conferred degrees, diplomas, and certificates, while Dr. Julius Kipng’etich, Group CEO of Jubilee Holdings Limited, delivered the keynote address.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius JAGANYI congratulated the Class of 2026 and thanked parents, guardians, staff, and partners for their unwavering support. He expressed confidence that the graduates had acquired the knowledge, practical skills, values, and resilience needed to excel in their careers and positively impact society.
Prof. Jaganyi noted that MKU continues to align its academic programmes with industry needs through regular curriculum reviews and the implementation of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) through the School of Education and Equip Africa Institute, the University’s TVET arm.
He also highlighted MKU’s growing research profile, citing prestigious international grants from the Gates Foundation, DAAD, Wellcome Trust, and the Erasmus+ Mobility Programme, supporting research in maternal health, employability, malaria, and gender equality through 2029.
Chair of the University Council Dr. Vincent Gaitho urged the graduates to become ethical leaders who champion social transformation and inclusivity, while Chancellor Prof. John Struthers encouraged them to embrace emerging technologies, remain competitive, and build resilience in an ever-changing global environment. He also thanked government agencies, development partners, and philanthropic organizations for supporting scholarships, research, and institutional growth.
In his keynote address, Dr. Julius Kipng’etich challenged graduates to embrace their role in shaping Kenya’s future through integrity, innovation, and service. He encouraged them to build a professional digital presence that attracts opportunities and reminded them that true success is measured by the positive impact they create in the lives of others.
“No success is complete when carried alone. Mentor someone. Make room for someone. Build systems that do not only serve you,” he advised.
Thousands of graduands celebrated the milestone alongside their families and friends. Graduates will begin collecting their certificates from Monday, 10 August 2026. The ceremony was also streamed live to Mount Kigali University in Rwanda, underscoring MKU’s commitment to providing education beyond borders.
As the Class of 2026 embarks on the next chapter of their lives, Mount Kenya University remains committed to nurturing competent, ethical, and innovative graduates who will drive sustainable development locally and globally.
