MKU Founder awards Kshs. 100,000 to student for naming new state-of-the-art auditorium

MKU Founder awards Kshs. 100,000 to student for naming new state-of-the-art auditorium

Mount Kenya University Founder, Prof. Simon Gicharu, has recognized and rewarded student creativity by awarding Ksh. 100,000 to Ms. Hamia Adhiambo Ouma, a Diploma in Business Management student at MKU Nakuru Campus. She emerged the winner in a campus-wide competition to name the university’s newly constructed, state-of-the-art auditorium.

The contest attracted a wide range of innovative entries from students, with the final decision made by a panel of judges appointed by the university. Ms. Ouma’s winning entry, “Infinite Quest Auditorium,” stood out for its originality and strong alignment with MKU’s vision and core values.

“The name Infinite Quest Auditorium beautifully captures the university’s mission and aligns with MKU’s motto — Unlocking Infinite Possibilities — which speaks to our commitment to providing education, research, innovation, and opportunities that empower individuals to realize their limitless potential,” said Prof. Gicharu during the award presentation.

Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Ouma revealed that she plans to use the prize money to invest in agriculture in her home area, Nyando Constituency, Kisumu County.

“I plan to buy cows and start rice farming, and also support my husband, who has been helping me pay my school fees,” she shared.

The Infinite Quest Auditorium is scheduled to host its inaugural event on 26th September 2025, during the Mount Kenya University Interdisciplinary Conference 2025. The conference will bring together scholars and experts under the theme:“Emerging Technologies and Sustainable Practices: Innovation in Agriculture, Health, Renewable Energy, and Business Practice.”

According to Dr. Jacqueline Omuya, Campus Director at MKU Nakuru Campus, the naming competition and its outcome highlight the university’s dedication not only to modern infrastructure but also to empowering students.

“This milestone is a reflection of MKU’s commitment to nurturing student talent, fostering innovation, and strengthening community engagement,” Dr. Omuya noted.

With this initiative, MKU continues to demonstrate its commitment to investing in both infrastructure and student potential, ensuring that learners are at the heart of the institution’s growth and innovation journey.