There were smiles, heartfelt tributes and moments of reflection as staff from the Office of the Dean of Students at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) gathered to bid farewell to the outgoing Dean of Students, Prof. Fredah Wanzala, as she concluded a distinguished seven-year tenure.
Hosted by the Office of the Dean of Students, the colourful ceremony celebrated Prof. Wanzala’s dedicated service, recognizing her visionary leadership, mentorship and unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive and student-centered university environment.
The ceremony brought together staff from the Office of the Dean of Students, university administrators, student leaders and invited guests, who paid tribute to Prof. Wanzala’s people-centered leadership and open-door policy that made the Dean’s Office a trusted source of guidance, support and advocacy for students throughout her tenure.
During her tenure, Prof. Wanzala the university experienced credible students’ elections, there was great teamwork among Departmental staff in the Dean’s office, training of peer counsellors, both staff & students was successfully conducted. Digitization of the students clearance was introduced in her time in office, training students in employability/soft skills, as well inception of the Engage Develop Grow and Entrepreneurship (EDGE) program that began November last year through which, a major Career Fair for all students was held in November 2024, which saw the training of over 500 Clubs and Societies leaders in transformative leadership skills, among many other achievements.
In her farewell address, Prof. Wanzala reflected on her journey with humility and appreciation, describing her years of service as both fulfilling and transformative.
“Serving our students has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life. Every challenge presented an opportunity to make our university stronger, more compassionate, and more responsive to the needs of young people. I leave knowing that together we built a culture where students felt heard, valued, and empowered to succeed,” she said.
She encouraged the students’ leaders to continue leading with excellence, integrity, resilience, and purpose further urging staff members to continue placing students at the center of every institutional decision. The new Dean of students, Prof. John Githiri praised the outgoing Dean for her outstanding contribution to student affairs, noting that her leadership strengthened student governance, promoted peaceful engagement between students and management, enhanced student welfare services, and championed holistic student development.
“Her leadership has been defined by compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders. She has inspired confidence among students, built strong partnerships across the University, and created systems that will continue to benefit the institution for years to come,” noted Prof. Githiri.
Mr. Patrick Kigathi an administrator from Dean of Students Department paid glowing tribute to their departing leader on behalf of the members of the department, describing her as a mentor who encouraged teamwork, innovation, and professional growth. He applauded her ability to guide the department through changing times while maintaining excellence in service delivery. Student leaders, many of whom worked closely with her during their terms of office, expressed gratitude for her accessibility and unwavering support.
“She listened before making decisions, believed in constructive dialogue, and always reminded us that leadership is about service. Her guidance has shaped many of us into responsible employees who are ready to serve society,” remarked Mr. Kigathi.
The celebration featured moving testimonials and the presentation of commemorative gifts, symbolizing the deep appreciation and lasting friendships forged during her tenure.
The farewell was more than a celebration of years served it was a powerful testament to the enduring impact of leadership rooted in compassion, vision, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student.
