MMUST Charts Fresh Start for Its Alumni Association as It Conducts Workshop to Revitalize MMUSTAA
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), through its Directorate of Career Services, conducted a two-day workshop for the Alumni Association Executive Members from 18th to 19th September 2025 at Kisumu Hotel. The forum brought together MMUST Alumni Association (MMUSTAA) officials led by the Chairperson- Mr. Kennedy Echesa, to reflect on the Association’s mandate, identify existing gaps, and develop strategies to revitalize the body while strengthening collaborations between the alumni and the University. The workshop was led by the Director, Career Services- Prof. Robert Egessa, who steered discussions on ‘jump-starting’ the Association as a strategic partner in advancing the University’s mission.
The other Executive members present at the workshop included Mr. Kennedy Wabwile (Secretary General), Mr. Charles Otiende (Deputy Organizing Secretary), Mr. Mathew Wakoli (Public Relations Officer), Mr. Ignatius Nyikuri (Treasurer), Mr. James Owich (member), Ms. Linnet Tuyia (member), Ms. Jane Njeri (member), and Ms. Mercy Wanyonyi (member).
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)- Prof. Hussein Golicha speaks at the workshop.
Speaking during the opening session, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)- Prof. Hussein Golicha, emphasized that the initiative marks a turning point for MMUST’s alumni relations, noting that a vibrant alumni association is an invaluable asset in building institutional reputation, fostering networks, and supporting students.
Reiterating the DVC, the Registrar (Academic Affairs)- Prof. Judah Ndiku underscored the role of the Association in serving as a bridge between graduates and their alma mater, inspiring a culture of giving back while contributing to the University’s strategic initiatives.
The Registrar (Academic Affairs)- Prof. Judah Ndiku makes his remarks at the event.
Similarly, Prof. Robert Egessa, expressed delight at the success of the workshop, noting that the Alumni Association has now been formally registered and is set to operate fully. He affirmed that this milestone marks a new chapter for MMUSTAA, positioning it to play a more visible role in supporting University programs, strengthening alumni linkages, and driving resource mobilization initiatives. “The registration of the Association, coupled with calls for financial autonomy and structured engagement frameworks, signals a turning point for MMUSTAA,” assured Prof. Egessa.
Prof. Robert Egessa leads a session during the workshop.
Commenting on the role of the Association, the MMUSTAA Chairperson- Mr. Kennedy Echesa, underscored the need to empower alumni structures to function more effectively. He encouraged the University management to consider granting the Association an independent bank account to facilitate operations and enhance its capacity for resource mobilization. Mr. Echesa noted that such financial autonomy would enable MMUSTAA to better support University programs, mobilize resources for student welfare, and contribute to institutional development initiatives.
The MMUSTAA Chairperson- Mr. Kennedy Echesa gives his remarks at the event.
One of the facilitators, Ms. Judy Chelangat, (International Students and Alumni Coordination Officer at Kenya Methodist University), delivered a keynote presentation on ‘Alumni Relationship Building, Coordination, and Engagement Strategies’. She outlined best practices for nurturing strong alumni networks, emphasizing the importance of continuous communication, structured engagement programs, and leveraging alumni expertise to support institutional development.
Further, Ms. Chelangat highlighted the importance of providing tangible incentives to encourage alumni participation. She cited examples such as registration fee waivers and zero admission fees for alumni returning to further their studies, noting that such measures not only reward loyalty but also inspire greater involvement in university activities. Her presentation offered the MMUSTAA executives practical models to adopt as they seek to revitalize the Association and enhance alumni-university collaboration.
One of the facilitators, Ms. Judy Chelangat makes her presentation.
Additionally, Mr. Solomon Mutua, (Senior Marketing Officer at Kenya Methodist University), guided participants through ‘Strategies on Resource Mobilization, Endowment Funds, and Alumni Philanthropy’, He stressed the need for alumni associations to adopt innovative approaches in fundraising and resource mobilization, including the establishment of endowment funds to support needy students.
A section of the Executive members keenly following the presentations.
Mr. Mutua pointed out that alumni philanthropy goes beyond financial contributions, highlighting the value of professional networks, mentorship, and knowledge sharing. He encouraged MMUSTAA executives to cultivate a culture of giving back by developing transparent systems of accountability and recognition that motivate alumni to contribute meaningfully to the University’s growth and student support initiatives.
Mr. Solomon Mutua during his presentation.
The Kibabii University Alumni Association Chairperson, Dr. Yvonne Kariuki, challenged MMUSTAA to set clear benchmarks for growth and accountability. She outlined key success metrics that drive strong alumni associations, citing the success of the inaugural Kibabii University Alumni Gala Dinner as a model of effective alumni engagement. Dr. Kariuki emphasized that well-structured events not only strengthen bonds among alumni but also serve as powerful platforms for resource mobilization and institutional support.
The Kibabii University Alumni Association Chairperson, Dr. Yvonne Kariuki explains a point during her presentation.
As the two-day workshop drew to a close, participants expressed optimism that the renewed energy within MMUSTAA would mark the beginning of a more vibrant alumni Association. With clear strategies, fresh leadership perspectives, and lessons drawn from peer institutions, the Association is now better positioned to champion alumni engagement, foster a culture of giving back, and rally support for the University’s programs and initiatives.
By Linet Owuor
