Vice Chancellor to New Students: We will Give You the Best Education - Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

*Prof. Ngumi interacts with jubilant students during the event*

The orientation for over 7,200 students admitted to pursue different degree programmes at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology came to a close on Friday September 5, with an address by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi. The event held at the Assembly Hall saw the top management interact and share words of wisdom, encouragement and guidance with the new students.

Prof. Ngumi congratulated the students on securing a study slot at JKUAT, noting that the university it is a hub of innovation, a beacon of excellence, and a community of trailblazers; with a legacy of academic rigor, cutting-edge research, and a commitment to addressing real-world challenges.

“You are not just students; you are the architects of tomorrow, the dreamers and doers who will shape the future of our nation, our continent, and the world,” Prof. Ngumi said to the jubilant students.

*Mugo Kimani, first year Biotechnology student makes a comment during the Vice Chancellor’s address*

While urging the students to embrace the JKUAT spirit of innovation and service, the Vice Chancellor added that university education provides the students with unique opportunity to contribute knowledge and solutions to pressing global issues such as climate crisis, digital transformation and sustainable development.

In order to make the best use of their time at JKUAT, Prof. Ngumi challenged the students to observe a number of time tested and impact oriented personal and group behaviours for success. The students were encouraged to embrace intellectual curiosity; taking education as a ‘deep exploration, not a shallow sprint to an exam.’

“You are surrounded by incredible diversity of thought and talent. Engage with it. Learn from the student who comes from a different county, a different background, “Prof. Ngumi exhorted.

*Prof. Victoria Ngumi (centre), Prof. Robert Kinyua (right) and Prof. Daniel Sila follow the event’s proceedings*

Citing some of the challenges that are likely to face the students in the course of their studies such as complex assignments, demanding schedules, and moments of self-doubt, Prof. Ngumi called for resilience and personal discipline.

In a spirit of caution, the Vice Chancellor urged the fresh students to avoid common pitfalls such as sexual immorality, drug abuse, examination malpractices and criminal activities. Engaging in such activities, she warned, had the potential to derail the students’ academic momentum and compromised health.

“As I went round during the registration, I met hopeful parents. Those parents expect that you will finish your studies and become the pillars of societal transformation, starting from your respective households. Stay focussed on your studies and nurture the qualities of a responsible citizen. This will be the best gift to your parents. The best appreciation to your university and the best investment for your future,” Prof. Ngumi said.

The event was also addressed by the Deputy Vice Chancellors: Prof. Robert Kinyua (Academic Affairs); Prof. Jackson Kwanza (Research, Production and Extension) and Prof. Daniel Sila (Administration and Finance).