The 8th leadership of Masinde Muliro University Student Organization (MMUSO) today 14th March 2025, took oath of office in a colourful ceremony that was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo . The event was organized by the MMUSO Electoral Commission in conjunction with the Office of the Dean of Students, led by Prof. Kennedy Onkware and Dr. Bernadette Abwao respectively. The oathing was conducted by MMUST’s Senior Legal Assistant, Ms. Lindah Omenya.
Speaking during the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo commended the outgoing team and welcomed the incoming one led by Collins Sankale. He noted that it is a requirement to have student leadership to cater for the students’ needs. However, Prof. Shibairo challenged lady students to vie for leadership positions. “I am happy about the peace and tranquility exhibited by contestants during the just concluded students’ elections. I assure you of the University’s support, as you take up your new positions and urge you not to forget your studies as you pursue these positions,” said Prof. Shibairo.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo addresses student leaders.
Reporting on the election process, Prof. Onkware revealed that MMUST now has 34 elected members representing the 11 Schools, postgraduate and international students, as well as the halls of residence. This comprises of the Student Executive Council (SEC) and Electorate College representatives. “We have had free, fair and credible elections thanks to the support from the University Management Board, Student Commissioners, IEBC Officials, MMUST Commissioners. This has been the most peaceful students’ election in the history of MMUSO,” stated Prof. Onkware.
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Joseph Owino who is also the Dean School of Natural Sciences (SONAS) advised the student leaders to observe protocol in their bid to resolve students’ issues. “Begin solving issues at the departmental level and only escalate matters upwards if the department is unable to resolve the problem,” he recommended.
The 8th MMUSO Student Executive Council (front row).
The Registrar Academic Affairs, Prof. Judah Ndiku pledged support to the student leaders, urging them not to fear making mistakes but learn from them. “Please consult, consult and consult,” said Prof. Ndiku. Equally, the Dean of Students, Dr. Abwao congratulated the student leaders, pointing out that they should view the University as bigger than individuals as they did during the recent elections. The same sentiments were reiterated by the Ag. Dean of Students, Rev. Fr. Dr. Kizito Muchanga, who expressed confidence that the diversity in the current students’ leadership will help the team govern effectively.
The newly elected students’ President, Mr. Collins Sankale takes the oath of office.
The outgoing MMUSO Chairperson, Allan Omondi Ochieng congratulated the stellar performance of the incoming team, advising them to maintain peace and tranquility which was fought for during his tenure. On his part, the newly elected students’ President, Mr. Collins Sankale vowed to work together with the Management to propel MMUST towards success. “This is a call to serve. My team and I will complete the great initiatives begun by the 7th MMUSO leadership,” he affirmed.
The outgoing MMUSO Student Executive Council at the event.
The MMUSO Electoral Commission Members who attended the swearing-in ceremony were Prof. Kennedy Onkware, Rev. Prof. Willis Otuya, Dr. Bernadette Abwao, Dr. Beatrice Shikuku, Rev. Fr. Dr. Kizito Muchanga, Dr. Paul Ogenga, Dr. Dennis Omaiyo, Dr. Pauline Adhiambo, legal counsel- Ms. Linda Omenya, Mr. Joseph Mugo, Mr. Benedict Shitera. The event was also attended and covered by the Directorate of Corporate Communications and Marketing team. Other important attendees included the outgoing MMUSO SEC, members of staff and students. The swearing-in ceremony was punctuated by exciting traditional dance performances by MMUST students.
Students perform a Turkana dance at the event.
Notably, the 8th MMUSO Student Executive Council currently comprises of the Chairperson, Mr. Collins Sankale; Vice Chairperson, Ms. Vanessa Paul Rose; Secretary General, Mr. Fadhili Mulongo; Treasurer, Mr. Josephat Owiti; Academic Secretary, Mr. Nichodemus Joshua Kyama; Co-curricular Secretary, Mr. Maxwell Otieno Odhiambo, and the Special Interest Secretary, Ms. Riziki Yvonne. The Speaker, Deputy Speaker and the Clerk of the Parliament will be elected during the first parliamentary sitting next week.
Swearing-in ceremonies such as this, not only showcase the authority and power accorded to leaders but also holds them to account in case they do not deliver on their promises. The student leaders that have been sworn in today, will be expected to successfully steer the affairs of MMUST students for the next one year.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje, Caren Nekesa and Wangari Wambugu
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
