“Empowerment Is Key to Leadership,” Says MMUST VC, as the 8th MMUSO Undergo Induction.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, has challenged the 8th MMUSO leaders to prioritize teamwork and empowerment, urging them to build a team so capable that it thrives even in the absence of a member. This was during the week-long induction workshop for the 8th MMUSO leadership, which commenced on 16th September 2025 at the Kisumu Hotel, and is set to conclude on 19th September, 2025. The event brought together senior university managers and staff from the office of the Dean of Students, to equip the student leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively serve their peers and the university community.
Prof. Solomon Shibairo engages the student leaders during the workshop.
Speaking during the official opening of the event, Prof. Shibairo stressed the importance of aligning student leadership engagements with the university’s strategic goals. He urged the leaders to fully immerse themselves in the institution’s vision, mission, and core values, advising them to understand the strategic plan to ensure that their efforts are not just isolated events, but a meaningful part of a larger plan that serves the broader University community.
“The biggest dilemma in leadership is the balance between achieving your goals for the student body and maintaining positive relationships with your peers. To achieve some of these things, you will have to make difficult, sometimes unpopular decisions. However, I encourage you to do what is right and what serves the majority, for great leaders do not eliminate this dilemma but instead learn to navigate it with skill and integrity,” said Prof. Shibairo.
The Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor of Planning, Research and Innovation, Prof. Peter Bukhala makes his remarks.
The Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor of Planning, Research and Innovation, Prof. Peter Bukhala highlighted a proposal for institutional research funding submitted by the students. He commended the effort as a ‘first-time-ever’, for student leadership at the University, underscoring the long-term impact of such contributions. Additionally, Prof. Bukhala noted that the student leaders’ positions provide an unparalleled platform for growth and future opportunities.
“The leadership position you hold is a powerful platform that gives you a chance to truly understand our University’s inner operations. This opportunity should not only motivate you to pursue further studies with us but also open doors for future employment, allowing you to become a key contributor to the University’s growth,” remarked Prof. Bukhala.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha speaks at the event.
Similarly, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha congratulated the newly elected student leaders on their victory. He underscored the critical role student leadership plays in the effective management of the university, stressing that while their leadership positions are important, their academics must remain their top priority. Prof. Golicha also echoed the Vice Chancellor’s sentiments, saying that indeed as student leaders, they will find themselves caught between the students and management, and their primary role should be to act as a diplomatic bridge.
A section of student leaders keenly follow the presentations.
Commenting on the training content, the Dean of Students, Dr. Bernadette Abwao revealed that it was developed by the Kenya School of Government after a national workshop for Deans of Students from various universities. She clarified that this move was key in ensuring a standardized and relevant leadership curriculum that cuts across all Kenyan public universities. “By adopting this content, our student leaders are going to be equipped with skills that are not only applicable within our own institution but are also nationally recognized. This places them on the same professional footing as their peers from other universities, and enhances their ability to collaborate on matters of student governance on a national scale,” she stated.
The Registrar Administration, Dr. Eglay Tsuma makes a presentation.
The workshop covered a range of issues including ‘Enhancing Leadership in Multicultural Environment’, ‘University Policy Documents’, ‘Countering Radicalization and Violent Extremism among the Youth in Institutions of Higher Learning’, ‘Patriotism and Nation Building in Leadership’, ‘National Values, Ethics and Integrity in Leadership’, ‘Basic Counselling Skills for Leadership’, ‘Rules and Regulations Governing Students Discipline and Conduct in MMUST’, ‘Effective Financial Management, Budgeting and Accountability’, ‘Safety, Security, and Risk Management in Institutions of Higher Learning’, ‘Mental Wellness and Emotional Balance in Student Leadership’, ‘Conflict Management and Leadership’, ‘Harnessing Innovation for Youth Entrepreneurship’, and ‘Student Leaders as Catalysts for Positive Change in the Community.’
A section of leaders share a light moment after the workshop.
Certainly, by equipping the 8th MMUSO leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge, the University is ensuring that they are not only empowered to serve their peers but also prepared to make a lasting impact on campus life. Honouring this tradition also elevates student leadership from a position of power to one of professional service.
By Caren Nekesa
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
