KCA University held its 17th graduation ceremony in grand style at its Main Campus in Ruaraka, Nairobi. Over 2,800 students were conferred with degrees, diplomas, and certificates, marking the culmination of their academic journey. This celebration also heralded a new era for the institution, with the newly appointed Chancellor, FCPA Dr. Martin Oduor Otieno, CBS, presiding over the ceremony for the first time.
This event was the second graduation of the year under KCA University’s recently adopted bi-annual graduation system. This change aims to enhance academic completion timelines and fast-track students’ transition into the workforce.
A Historic Transition in Leadership
The 17th graduation marked a significant milestone for KCA University as FCPA Dr. Martin Oduor Otieno took over the chancellorship from Prof. Olive Mugenda, PhD, EBS, CBS, MGH. Prof. Mugenda, who served as Chancellor for five years, was lauded for her dedicated leadership and commitment to advancing the institution. Dr. Oduor, a distinguished accountant and academic leader, expressed his readiness to steer the university toward greater achievements.
Preparing Graduates for a Dynamic Workforce
In his address, Dr. Oduor emphasized the importance of adaptability in today’s ever-evolving job market. He encouraged graduates to embrace non-linear career paths and remain flexible in their professional endeavors.
“Traditional, linear career paths are becoming increasingly rare. My message to this graduating class is to be flexible and adaptable. They need the agility to pivot, explore unconventional roles, and embrace opportunities that align with their evolving passions and goals. Adaptability will empower them to face challenges, recover from setbacks, and thrive in environments of change,” Dr. Oduor said.
The Chancellor highlighted the necessity of continual learning and mastering emerging tools and methodologies to remain competitive in the global workforce.
Recognizing Innovation and Contribution
The ceremony also included special recognition for 30 staff members and 10 students who excelled in grant writing and innovation initiatives. These contributions are part of KCA University’s efforts to address global challenges through research and technological advancements.
Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki, the Vice Chancellor, emphasized the importance of robust leadership and governance structures in higher education institutions. He noted that these structures are critical for the prudent management of resources and sustainability, especially amid ongoing reforms in Kenya’s higher education sector.
“Leadership and governance structures are fundamental in ensuring prudent management of resources and fostering sustainability in institutions. Effective governance establishes a framework of accountability, transparency, and strategic oversight, which are instrumental in addressing the financial and operational challenges that we face,” Prof. Wakindiki remarked.
Enhancing KCA University’s Legacy
The 17th graduation ceremony solidified KCA University’s reputation as a leading institution for nurturing talent and innovation. With the institution’s shift to bi-annual graduations, more students can complete their studies and transition into the workforce more efficiently.
As the university embarks on this new chapter under Dr. Oduor’s leadership, it remains committed to equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability needed to excel in a rapidly changing world. The ceremony served not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a platform for inspiring the next generation of leaders to embrace change and innovation in their respective fields.
KCA University’s commitment to excellence and its proactive measures to prepare students for dynamic careers highlight its role as a pivotal institution in shaping Kenya’s higher education landscape.
