Students pursuing supply chain and procurement have been urged to uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity as they prepare to enter the professional world. This call was made during the National Supply Chain Students’ Summit held at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), where speakers underscored the importance of ethical conduct as the cornerstone of transparent, accountable, and sustainable supply chain systems.
Held on October 24, 2025, under the theme “Ethics in Supply Chain and Procurement: A Foundational Imperative in the Current Global Landscape,” the summit brought together more than 500 students from over 10 universities across Kenya, alongside delegates and industry stakeholders.
Participating institutions included Kisii University, Chuka University, Strathmore University, Tharaka Nithi University, Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology, Maseno University, and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, among others.
The event provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas, engage in mentorship sessions, panel discussions and explore strategies for strengthening ethical practices in the procurement and supply chain sectors.
With the ethical issues witnessed in recent years, such as the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) procurement scandal that exposed weaknesses in transparency and accountability speakers underscored the urgent need to cultivate a new generation of supply chain professionals grounded in integrity and ethical leadership.
Chief Guest, Mr. Bernard Odote, Group CEO and Managing Director of House of Procurement & The Odote Group, highlighted the critical value of the supply chain function in driving national and organizational development. He emphasized that ethical conduct and professional discipline are indispensable in ensuring efficiency, fairness, and sustainability within procurement systems.
Mr. Odote also noted that the supply chain plays a crucial role in providing requisite solutions for any company, as it directly influences operational efficiency, cost management, and overall organizational performance.
“When guided by ethical principles, the supply chain becomes a strategic tool for driving growth, innovation, and trust within both the public and private sectors,” said Mr. Odote.
The Principal, College of Human Resource Development (COHRED), Prof. Florence Mwaura, acknowledged the significant impact of the supply chain function on the success and sustainability of any institution.
Prof. Mwaura said that effective supply chain management ensures the optimal use of resources, enhances service delivery, and promotes accountability within organizations.
“I want to commend the organizers for creating a platform that nurtures ethical awareness and professional growth among our students,” said the Principal COHRED.
The Dean, School of Business, Prof. Patrick Karanja emphasized that ethical conduct remains the cornerstone of transparent and accountable procurement systems.
He commended the students for their enthusiasm and commitment to professional growth, noting that the future of the supply chain sector depends on young leaders who can blend technical excellence with moral responsibility.
JKUAT, Chief Procurement Officer, Ms. Kellen Karimi, said employers are increasingly seeking graduates who possess not only technical expertise but also strong ethical values in procurement and supply chain management. She emphasized that integrity, transparency, and accountability are now key differentiators in the job market, as organizations strive to build trust and ensure compliance in their operations.
“I encourage you students to uphold these principles from the onset of your careers, as ethical conduct remains the foundation of professional excellence,” said Ms. Karimi.
Donald Midodo, President of the Supply Chain Students Association of Kenya (SCSA-K), said the summit provided a unique opportunity for students to interact with industry leaders, gain practical insights, and understand the ethical expectations of the profession.
He noted that such engagements empower students to bridge the gap between theory and practice while inspiring them to become responsible and value-driven professionals in the supply chain field.
The summit concluded with a renewed call for ethical leadership in procurement and supply chain management, with participants pledging to champion transparency, sustainability, and professionalism in their future workplaces.
