The newly elected Jomo Kenyatta University Students Association (JKUSA) leaders participated in a comprehensive leadership training programme organized by the University Management in Mombasa. The programme was designed to equip them with essential leadership, governance, and management skills to effectively represent and serve the student body.
The training, held from April 28–30, 2026, brought together the incoming student leadership for an intensive programme aimed at strengthening their capacity for effective service delivery.
It covered key areas including governance and ethics, conflict resolution, financial management, mental wellness, communication strategies, and teamwork, and is expected to equip the leaders to execute their mandate with professionalism, integrity, and a renewed commitment to student welfare.
Speaking during the closing session, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi emphasized the University’s commitment to nurturing responsible and visionary leaders. Prof. Ngumi noted that student leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping campus culture and fostering a conducive academic environment, urging the leaders to uphold integrity, accountability, and inclusivity in the discharge of their duties.
“Remember that leadership is not defined by the duration of this training, but by the actions you take thereafter. The true test of what you have learned will be seen in how you engage with your fellow students, how you address challenges, and how you uphold the values of this institution,” said Prof. Ngumi.
The Vice Chancellor also noted that leadership requires courage, the courage to stand for what is right, to make difficult decisions, and to remain steadfast even in the face of criticism, while emphasizing that it equally demands humility: the ability to learn, accept feedback, and grow continuously.
Commending the University Management for making the training possible, the Dean of Students, Prof. Fredah Wanzala, described the programme as a timely and impactful initiative aimed at strengthening student governance. She noted that “leadership is a responsibility that demands integrity, discipline, and a clear understanding of the needs of the student body”.
The Dean further emphasized that the training was designed not only to build leadership capacity but also to instill values of accountability, inclusivity, and service. She urged the student leaders to act as a bridge between the administration and the wider student community, fostering open communication and mutual respect.
“As leaders, you should remain resilient, seek guidance when necessary, and make decisions that promote harmony and the overall well-being of students. Remember that your actions set the tone for the entire student community,” advised Prof. Wanzala.
The student leaders were also taken through the new Electronic Government Procurement System (E-GP) by the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), Dr. Kellen Njiru, who lauded the university management for incorporating E-GP training into the student leadership programme. She noted that the initiative exposed student leaders to modern governance, transparency, and accountability practices within public institutions.
Electronic Government Procurement System is a key component in promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public institutions,” emphasized Dr. Njiru.
She further noted that understanding such systems is essential for young leaders aspiring to serve in public administration and leadership positions in the future.
Outgoing Students’ President, Mr. Peace Love, who attended the training, encouraged his successors to remain committed to service and to prioritize the welfare of the student body. He underscored the importance of resilience and adaptability in leadership.
The incoming JKUSA President, Mr. Wycliff Omondi, expressed appreciation to the University Management for organizing the comprehensive leadership training, noting that it had equipped the student leadership with invaluable skills and insights.
He described the programme as both transformative and empowering, highlighting key areas such as governance, conflict resolution, communication, and mental wellness as critical to effective leadership. He affirmed that the knowledge gained would significantly enhance their ability to serve the student body with diligence and professionalism.
“I pledge to foster unity and inclusivity among students. My administration will prioritize transparency, accountability, and active engagement with students to address their concerns,” said Mr. Omondi.
The University Management expressed confidence in the newly trained leaders, reiterating its support throughout their leadership journey. In turn, the student leaders pledged to apply the knowledge and skills acquired to promote unity, advocate for student interests, and contribute positively to the continued growth of the institution.
