Who is the Mount Kenya University (MKU) graduate changing lives, transforming communities or making waves on the global stage?
MKU Alumni Plaza
By James Wakahiu
Mount Kenya University (MKU) Alumni Directorate has officially opened nominations for the MKU Alumni Award 2026, calling on the University’s alumni community in Kenya and across the Diaspora to identify graduates whose work is making a meaningful difference in society.
This is not simply a search for the most successful alumnus. It is an impact search. That person could soon be recognised with one of the most prestigious honours available to an MKU graduate — and a USD 50,000 (Sh6.47 million) award.
Photo/Some of the MKU students who graduated in August 2026. Photo; Courtesy
Changing lives
Although every university produces graduates, some graduates go on to do something bigger — they use their knowledge, skills and opportunities to improve the lives of others. The 2026 MKU Alumni Award seeks to celebrate such individuals.
The nominee could be a community champion quietly changing lives at grassroots level, an entrepreneur creating employment, a professional excelling in their field, a public leader influencing policy or an innovator developing solutions to society’s biggest challenges.Â
And the impact does not have to stop at Kenya’s borders. MKU alumni living and working in the diaspora are equally eligible for nomination. The overall winner will receive Sh6.4 million in recognition of their significant contribution towards positively impacting society.
They will also receive a certificate of recognition, while their name will be permanently inscribed on the MKU alumni wall of honour. The award therefore offers more than financial recognition. It creates a lasting record of an alumnus whose work has made a difference.
In a statement, MKU says the nominee must be an MKU graduate with proven and sustainable contributions in a specific area of impact. They must also demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and values consistent with the university’s mission.
Photo/MKU students in previous graduation ceremonies. Photo; Courtesy
Maybe they are building a successful enterprise, making a difference through their profession, empowering others, championing innovation, or giving back to their community.Â
However, MKU employees, university council members, individuals with a conflict of interest, current MKU Alumni Association executive board members, and previous annual alumni award winners are not eligible.
While some changemakers are highly visible, others could be doing extraordinary work away from public spotlight. The person who deserves this award may be someone you know personally — a former classmate, colleague, mentor, business partner or community leader.
The MKU Alumni Awards 2026 provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate outstanding alumni who are making meaningful contributions in their communities, professions, businesses and society at large.
Photo/Inaugural Alumni Award winner 2025
From entrepreneurs creating employment and driving innovation to professionals excelling in their respective fields and community leaders making a lasting difference, MKU alumni continue to demonstrate that the impact of education extends far beyond the classroom.
The nominations, whose details are on the MKU website, opened on 1 September 2026 and will close on 30 September 2026. Applicants are required to submit a completed nomination form, the nominee’s CV and two reference letters. Only complete submissions will be considered.
The award will be presented to the ultimate winner during the 30th graduation ceremony to be held on Friday 4th December, 2026. So, who is your MKU changemaker?
