Mount Kenya University (MKU) has recently inaugurated a newly constructed mosque, a significant development in response to the growing Muslim student population. The unveiling ceremony took place on Thursday at the university’s main campus in Thika town, marking a milestone in MKU’s commitment to inclusivity and student welfare.
Historic Growth in Muslim Enrollment
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deo Jaganyi highlighted the impressive growth of Muslim student enrollment at MKU. When the university first received its Letter of Interim Authority in 2008, the number of Muslim students was fewer than 50. Fast forward to 2024, and that number has surged to approximately 10,000, reflecting a broader trend of increasing diversity within the student body.
“This growth from about 50 students in 2008 to around 10,000 in 2024 demonstrates the expanding influence and presence of our Muslim student community,” Prof. Jaganyi remarked. He noted that the previous mosque facility, which had been serving the students, was no longer adequate to accommodate the growing number of Muslim worshippers.
A Testament to Commitment and Inclusivity
The new mosque, along with a state-of-the-art student center, represents a significant investment by the university’s board of directors in both student welfare and religious inclusivity. Prof. Jaganyi described the construction of the mosque as an act of “service to man and service to God,” acknowledging the crucial role that religious facilities play in supporting students’ spiritual needs.
The vice-chancellor emphasized MKU’s commitment to maintaining a non-biased religious orientation, ensuring that all mainstream faith-based groups, including Islam, are supported. “From its inception, MKU has embraced a non-biased religious orientation, and we continue to support all faiths, including Islam, through such initiatives,” he said.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The new mosque and student center are part of a broader initiative to enhance campus facilities and provide students with the best possible environment for their studies and personal development. With the current enrollment standing at 56,225 students for the May-August 2024 semester, the addition of these facilities is a testament to the university’s dedication to accommodating its growing student population.
Prof. Jaganyi commended the construction work and the efforts of the board of directors and contractors. “I am impressed by the good construction work. On behalf of all the students and the university management, I wish to express our appreciation to the Board of Directors and the contractors for a job well done,” he stated.
Encouraging Respect and Awareness
During the ceremony, Prof. Jaganyi urged students to use the new facilities with respect and to share their experiences with others. “Tell your younger siblings and your friends about what we have at MKU. Let us show the world the excellent facilities we have, like the new mosque, and the state-of-the-art student center,” he advised.
The vice-chancellor’s message underscores MKU’s efforts to create a supportive and inclusive environment where students of all backgrounds feel valued and accommodated. The university’s investment in such facilities highlights its commitment to fostering a diverse and respectful community.
Looking Ahead
As MKU continues to expand and enhance its facilities, the new mosque stands as a symbol of the university’s dedication to meeting the needs of its diverse student body. The university’s efforts in building and maintaining such facilities are expected to further strengthen its reputation as a forward-thinking institution committed to the holistic development of its students.
In conclusion, the unveiling of the new mosque at Mount Kenya University marks a significant step in supporting the growing Muslim student population. It reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity and excellence, providing a model for other institutions aiming to cater to the diverse needs of their communities.
