Mrs. Virginiah Musawa
Director, Alumni Relations at MKU addressing alumni in a recently concluded alumni champions reunion held on 2nd August, 2025 at Hotel, Sirikwa in Eldoret.
By James Wakahiu
editor@themountainjournal.co.ke
Mount Kenya University (MKU) has launched its Annual
Alumni Awards, aimed at recognizing outstanding alumni
making exceptional contributions in their fields and
communities.
With a top prize of up to USD 50,000 (Sh6.4 million), the flagship initiative underscores the university’s commitment to celebrating success, amplifying impact, and inspiring the next
generation of changemakers.
Categories for the awards include: professional excellence, public service and leadership,
community service, global impact, innovation and
entrepreneurship Ms Virginiah Musawa, MKU’s Director of Alumni Relations,
says these awards are more than just accolades.
‘‘They are a celebration of the spirit of possibility that this institution instills
in its students from day one,’’ she said.
The university is already accepting nominations for these
awards. While many institutions are just beginning to tap into
the power of their alumni networks, the MKU has taken a bold
and holistic approach. By combining strategic engagement with
tangible recognition and support, it has created a model that
others in the region are now seeking to emulate.
“We believe that alumni are not just our past — they are our
present and our future,” said the Director. “Every initiative,
every reunion, every award, every webinar is designed to honor
that truth. Together, we are unlocking infinite possibilities,’’ she
added.
The University has emerged as a pacesetter in alumni
engagement, setting an example for peer institutions through an
ambitious and innovative approach that lives up to its motto:
Unlocking Infinite Possibilities. ‘As alumni continue to rise
across industries, governments, and communities, the
university’s commitment to their journey ensures that their
impact will be felt for generations to come,’’ Ms Musawa added.
She said that from the boardrooms of multinationals to the
grassroots of community-led initiatives, MKU’s alumni are
driving change across the globe. Recognizing this potential, the
university has redoubled its efforts to engage its graduates in
meaningful, empowering, and future-forward ways.
A hallmark of the university’s alumni engagement strategy has
been its dynamic series of webinars tailored for personal and
professional empowerment. These sessions — led by industry
leaders, faculty experts, and accomplished alumni — provide
ongoing learning, networking, and mentorship opportunities.
From leadership in the digital age to wellness in high-
performance careers, the webinar topics reflect the evolving
needs of today’s global alumni community.
‘‘True to the alumni motto, Engage, Empower, Evolve, these
webinars are more than just talks — they are launchpads for
growth, collaboration, and lifelong connection,’’ noted the
Director.
Early last month, MKU held a top-drawer Champions Region
Alumni Reunion in Eldoret City, bringing together its former
students from the Eldoret Campus and Kitale Centre.
Congratulating the former students, MKU vice-chancellor, Prof
Deogratius Jaganyi said it marked the inaugural physical reunion
of a community that has always been strong, but is now
becoming intentional—formally connected, deeply committed
and future-focused. “You are champions of your fields.
Champions of change. Champions of the values MKU holds
dear: integrity, responsibility, excellence, teamwork, inclusivity
an innovation,” he said.
The VC said that with over 100,000 alumni around the world,
the MKU Alumni community represents an extraordinary
resource of diverse talents, experiences and stories that can
inspire and support each other in countless ways. He appreciated
the MKU Alumni Directorate, whose dedicated work, he said,
has created a stable and supportive bridge connecting you to the
university.
Prof Jaganyi urged the alumni to give back to the institution by
offering to mentor current students, offering internships and job
opportunities that open doors for the next generation., and
contributing to scholarships, research, and campus development.
“Volunteer your time in events, advisory roles, and alumni
activities. By giving back, you empower others to succeed and
ensure that our university continues to grow as a place of
innovation, learning and opportunity,” he said.
Dr. Emily Kirwok, Director of MKU Eldoret Campus and Chair
of the Champions Cluster, emphasized the reunion’s core
goals—reflecting on the past, reconnecting and inspiring alumni
to support current students. She called on alumni to actively
contribute through mentorship, internships and employment
opportunities.
Keynote speaker, Ms Mercy Wanjiru, Regional Coordinator of
the Kenya Private Schools Association (North Rift) and an
alumnus- of MKU’s MBA and BBM programmes appreciated
the university’s sustained support of alumni engagement. “This
is not just an event; it is a coming home, a celebration of who
we were, who we’ve become, and who we’re yet to be,” she
said.
Wanjiru honoured the visionary leadership, administration and
various faculties of MKU. “We belong to a powerful network of
professionals, leaders, and visionaries with one thing in
common—MKU. You gave us grit, courage, and a reason to
dream bigger,” she said.
She pleaded with the alumni to support mentorship programmes,
and help place students in internships and industry spaces. “We
appreciate the commitment of MKU leadership that has enabled
impactful programs that benefit both alumni and the broader
MKU community. We are happy to be associated with our alma
mater, and we promise to give back through mentorship and
other forums,” she said.
The reunion was attended by, among others Uasin Gishu
Governor Hon. Dr. Jonathan Bii, who was represented by
County Attorney Mr. Silvester Metto, former MKU council
chairman Prof. David Serem, university leaders, and alumni
representatives. In their addresses, the dignitaries expressed
gratitude for the alumni’s continued loyalty and recognized the
pivotal role they play as ambassadors of the university.
Ends
