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29th Graduation Ceremony Speech By University Chancellor Prof. John Struthers

Preliminaries

It is my great pleasure once again to join the Mount Kenya University fraternity as we celebrate the 29^th Graduation Ceremony; a significant milestone in the University’s remarkable journey of transforming lives through quality education, research, innovation and service to humanity in line with the Theme of today’s graduation ceremony.

Empowerment of the Youth through Partnerships at MKU

 Ladies and gentlemen, in order for the youth to thrive in today’s global village, they must adapt to fast changing technology and be competitive and resilient. I congratulate Mount Kenya University for the continued strengthening of her global standing through strategic partnerships and international collaboration that support the students’ uptake of this ever-changing technology.

In this regard, it is particularly gratifying that the University’s tenure as the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) SDG 9 Hub Chair on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure has been extended to 2030. This reaffirms the international confidence in MKU’s leadership in advancing innovation and sustainable development through teaching, research and community engagement.

Equally commendable is the University’s continued investment in emerging technologies and industry-responsive education. The operationalization of the Cloud Computing Laboratory through collaboration with Xinyada ICT Company and leading Chinese higher education institutions, together with continued advancements in Artificial Intelligence, robotics, 5-G technology and Internet-of-Things, demonstrate Mount Kenya University’s unwavering commitment to preparing graduates for the opportunities and challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. These initiatives reflect a university that continually anticipates the future while remaining firmly committed to solving society’s most pressing challenges.

I also express my sincere appreciation to the many government agents, development partners, philanthropic organizations and friends of the University who continue to invest in the education of deserving students through scholarships, research support and institutional partnerships. Their generosity ensures that financial circumstances do not become barriers to academic excellence and contributes significantly to the University’s mission of expanding access to quality higher education.

 To the Graduands and the University Fraternity

To our graduands, welcome on board as you now join a distinguished community of Mount Kenya University alumni whose contributions continue to make a meaningful impact across the world in offering their service with dedication for a common good. Remember, the knowledge and skills you have acquired are valuable only when applied in the service to others.

Similarly, congratulations to your parents, guardians, families, lecturers, mentors and the entire University fraternity whose encouragement and support have made this achievement possible. We appreciate that many of your parents, relatives and friends, some of whom have travelled long distances to be here with you to celebrate your success today, have sacrificed much to support you during your time at MKU. We thank them too for such support.

Conclusion

 To the Graduands, we wish you the very best in your career and we are confident you have the required skills and knowledge to make a significant contribution in the job market. May your future be filled with purpose, fulfilment and continued success as you contribute your talents towards building stronger communities, prosperous nations and a better world for generations to come.

Thank you for your attention.

(Emeritus) Prof. John Struthers

CHANCELLOR

MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY