Engineering students celebrate their victory as they proudly lift the trophy for the 2024 tournament.
The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s (MMUST) Engineering Students Association (ESA) from 10 to 11 February 2024, hosted its highly anticipated Annual Tournament at the Approved School grounds. The event, marked by a series of games and sports, served as a vibrant platform where aspiring engineers showcased their talents while establishing invaluable connections with key industry players. The event was organised by ESA Leadership alongside ESA Patron Dr. Micah Mukolwe. This demonstrated the association’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry in a dynamic and collaborative setting, while also fostering a sense of unity among ESA students. The tournament, which was sponsored by the Kenya Power and Lightning Company (KPLC) was graced by the Associate Dean- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Dr. Peter Cherop, who was representing the Dean, Prof. Eng. Bernadette Sabuni.
“We have had a longstanding partnership with KPLC, but incorporating sports has truly elevated our collaboration,” remarked Dr. Cherop. With gratitude, he commended KPLC and the ESA teams for orchestrating such a remarkable event, anticipating continued collaboration and a myriad of future activities.
A section of MMUST’s SEBE staff and ESA committee members together with the team from KPLC, during the tournament.
Echoing the Associate Dean’s sentiment, Dr. Emmanuel Osore, the Chairman of the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, lauded KPLC’s openness to the ESA fraternity’s proposal. Highlighting the broader impact of the partnership, Dr. Osore emphasized its role in fostering networking and mentorship opportunities. “This partnership extends beyond sports; it is a gateway to invaluable networking and mentorship opportunities, creating the foundation for our students’ future endeavours,” he asserted.
Eng. Daniel Okumu, the County Business Manager, Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) – Kisumu branch, expressed unwavering confidence in MMUST students, affirming their priority status for attachments within KPLC. Further, he emphasized a commitment to future collaborations, assuring MMUST of KPLC’s dedication to mutually beneficial engagements.
The KPLC team demonstrating strength and teamwork during the tug of war competition against SEBE staff.
The SEBE staff and students as well as KPLC teams participated in the football match and chess games through the weekend. Spectators were treated to an exhilarating showcase of skill and sportsmanship, as each team battled for the prestigious tournament title and grand award. It is worth noting that the 5th-year team showcased their resilience and skill, ultimately clinching the tournament title and solidifying their status as champions of the 2024 tournament.
ESA Secretary General – Mr. Okeyo Isaac talking to his fellow fifth year students after the match.
Chess sensation Mr. Jones Isinde dominated the board with an unbeaten record. Meanwhile, the KPLC and SEBE staff squared off in the highly contested match. Despite SEBE’s determination to make their mark, KPLC emerged victorious with a hard-fought 1-0 win.
The KPLC Team pose for a photo before their game against SEBE staff.
In attendance were the County Business Manager – KPLC Kakamega, Eng. Eunice Wafula; and Eng. Kevin Amunga. The University community was also present to witness the tournament.
As the tournament came to a close, players and fans alike left with a sense of fulfilment and pride in what they had accomplished. The two-day event had brought together communities from across the engineering fraternity, uniting them in a shared passion for games and creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. Certainly, this event presented an invaluable opportunity for our engineering students to showcase their skills, expand their professional networks, and gain firsthand insight into the dynamic landscape of their field.
By Caren Nekesa