The Jomo Kenyatta University Students Association (JKUSA) has ushered in a new era of student-leadership following the colorful inauguration of the recently elected student leaders at a ceremony held at the JKUAT main campus, Monday, April 27, 2026.
Speaking at the ceremony attended by the university management, staff, students and parents, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, congratulated the elected leaders and challenged them to lead with integrity, vision and a deep sense of responsibility, emphasizing the critical role student leadership plays in shaping the university’s culture and fostering academic excellence.
“The leadership mantle you have received today is both an honor and a duty. You are called upon to be the voice of the students, to promote unity, and to uphold the values of this great institution,” said the Vice Chancellor.
“There will be moments that test your patience, your judgment, and your response. But it is in those moments that true leadership is revealed. Approach every challenge with wisdom, humility, and a commitment to dialogue and collaboration,” Prof. Ngumi added.
While appreciating the university’s continue support, the Dean of Students, Prof. Fredah Wanzala, lauded the smooth transition of leadership and reaffirmed JKUAT’s commitment to nurturing responsible and resilient student leaders.
“The inauguration marks a critical moment in strengthening student governance and participation. We are proud of the democratic process that has ushered in this new team, and we have full confidence in their ability to lead with integrity and purpose,” said Prof. Wanzala.
“As leaders, you carry the responsibility of representing and supporting your peers. It is essential that you remain grounded, self-aware, and proactive in addressing both academic and social challenges affecting the student community,” she added.
In his acceptance speech, new JKUSA President, Mr. Wycliff Omondi, expressed gratitude for the trust bestowed upon him and the entire team. He pledged to work tirelessly to represent the interests of all students and to build on the successes of the previous leadership.
“We assume office fully aware of the expectations placed upon us. Our commitment is to serve diligently, promote inclusivity, and champion the welfare and mental wellness of every student at JKUAT,” he stated.
The outgoing JKUSA President, Mr. Peace Love Issa, reflected on the journey of service, highlighting key achievements realized during the tenure, including improved student engagement, advocacy for academic excellence and welfare initiatives. He thanked the university administration and the student body for the support accorded to the outgoing leadership.
“It has been an honor to serve. Leadership is not about titles but about service, sacrifice, and leaving the institution better than you found it,” he said.
“Mr. Omondi and your team, the trust placed in you by your fellow students is both an honour and a profound responsibility, I urge you to embrace the values that define this university; integrity, inclusivity, innovation, and accountability,” he advised.
The ceremony was further enriched by a mental wellness sensitization session aimed at equipping the student leaders with knowledge and skills to champion emotional and psychological well-being among their peers.
The sensitization session facilitated by Mr. Joseph Mwangi, the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (ADAP) Committee Secretary under student counseling and psychological support, focused on stress management, emotional resilience, and the importance of seeking help when faced with mental health challenges.
Following the inauguration, the newly elected student leaders will participate in a series of training sessions designed to equip them with essential leadership skills. The sessions will provide valuable insights into effective leadership, decision-making, teamwork, and ethical governance, preparing them to serve their peers with confidence and purpose.
