Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) on 23rd October 2026, held a spiritedebate for candidates seeking election to the positions of School Deans, providing a platform for aspirants to present their manifestos and outline their leadership priorities ahead of the elections scheduled for October 27, 2026. The Big Debate was chaired by the Registrar Academic Affairs, Prof. Judah Ndiku, and brought together candidates from four Schools to articulate their visions for strengthening academic excellence, research, innovation and institutional development. The candidates from SONAS. The debate began with presentations by candidates from the School of Natural Sciences (SONAS), Dr. Philip Ogutu, Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda and Prof. Achilles Simiyu, who outlined their respective leadership prioritiefor advancing the School’s academic and research agenda. SEDU candidates at the event The School of Education (SEDU), the largest School at MMUST in terms of student population, took centre stage as Prof. Catherine Aurah, Dr. Paul Ogenga and Dr. Philip Mukonyi presented their manifestos. Given the School’s significant student population and central role in the University’s academic programmes, the candidates outlined their visions for strengthening academic leadership, enhancing the quality of teaching and learning, prioritizing staff and students welfare, and advancing research and innovation to meet the needs of its diverse student community. Additionally, candidates from the School of Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE), Dr. Peter Cherop and Dr. Peter Mukolwe, also presented their manifestos, outlining their priorities for strengthening the School’s academic programmes and advancing innovation and professional training. The Big Debate in session. The debate also featured aspirants for the School of Public Health, Biomedical Sciences and Technology(SPHB&T), Dr. Evans Raballah and Dr. Maximillah Wanzala, who shared their leadership visions for the School and highlighted their commitment to advancing academic excellence and institutional growth. The forum provided members of the University community with an opportunity to assess the candidatesleadership capabilities and preparedness to lead their respective Schools. It also enabled the aspirants tocommunicate their priorities and demonstrate their understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing their faculties. Dr. Maximillah Wanzala together with other members of staff during the big debate. The Big Debate forms part of MMUST’s efforts to participatory leadership, accountability and democratic governance in the management of its academic affairs. By providing a common platform for candidates to present their visions, the University continues to promote informed decision-making and transparency in the election of academic leaders. A section of the participants. All the best to all the candidates as they prepare for the elections!!! …
