The School of Public Health (SOPH), under the College of Health Sciences (COHES), hosted a farewell celebration for its final-year students on Thursday, August 13, 2026, ahead of the 46th and 14th Joint Graduation Ceremony.
SOPH Dean Prof. Gideon Kikuvi led the joyous celebration, proudly crowning his students’ academic journey with a heartfelt send-off and words of encouragement. Drawing from his personal philosophy, the dean urged his students to pursue every opportunity that provides them with a chance to gain practical experience in the profession.
“There is a real opportunity cost in the chances you do not take aadvantage of when they come your way. I have gotten this far in my careery by trying out every opportunity that I came across early in my career. Keep your ear on the ground, keep these connections with our institution and please apply whenever you see opportunities advertised.”
Prof. Kikuvi also cautioned the students against professional rigidity and encouraged the students to remain open to opportunities beyond the traditional public health career path.
“I would also caution you against being rigid in the job market. Keep your networks in public health intact but also look beyond the traditional career path. The world is evolving rapidly and there are new opportunities coming up daily. Your graduation is a testament to your ability to learn and be trained. Employ that attitude to be abble to exploit the opportunities that emerge from your environment,” Prof Kikuvi added.
Other speakers, included alumni Rehema Mwachuo from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), and Dr. Hassan Ajuk from the Ministry of Health. They welcomed the new trainees to the profession and urged them to explore the various opportunities offered within the government sector. The students on their part through their class representatives, thanked their trainers for providing them with holistic training that encompassed both technical and ethical training, as well as personal development guidance. They promised to uphold the high standards of their training in their professional practice and personal conduct.
The celebration was attended by staff and friends of the School, among them former Dean Prof. Simon Karanja, who urged the students to build strong professional networks and carry the quality of care and service instilled at JKUAT into their careers.
As they moved from the classroom into the world of work, the message was clear: stay connected, stay open to opportunities and let the knowledge gained at JKUAT make a difference wherever the journey leads.
