Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) held a significant ceremony today 5th February 2025 for the signing of the Cascaded Cost Center Performance Contracts for the financial year 2024/2025. The event, held at the University’s administration block, was graced by Dr. Pamela Sitienei, Chairperson of the MMUST Council, and marked a significant milestone in the University’s commitment to fostering a culture of accountability in service delivery and performance-driven outcomes.
The signing ceremony, attended by key University Managers, including members of the University Management Board, Senators, Directors, Deans, and Chairpersons of the Department, emphasized the importance of aligning each department’s objectives with the institution’s strategic goals. The Performance Contracts, which cascade from the University’s top leadership down to individual cost centers, are designed to ensure that every department contributes effectively to MMUST’s long-term success.
In her address, Dr. Sitienei highlighted the University’s commitment to delivering high-quality education, cutting-edge research, and world-class services. She emphasized that this performance-driven approach would help streamline operations and optimize resource utilization across all departments.
“As we enter this new era of accountability, it is crucial that every department meets its targets and works towards the achievement of MMUST’s overarching goals,” said Dr. Sitienei. “The signing of these performance contracts today is not just a ceremonial event, but a reflection of our collective responsibility to uphold high standards and continuously improve our services for the benefit of our students, staff, and the larger community,” she added. She assured the participants of the Council’s continuous commitment to support initiatives that strengthen operational effectiveness and ensure transparent management of resources.
Dr. Pamela Sitienei, Chairperson of the MMUST Council, speaking during the PC signing.
Reiterating the Chairperson of the Council, the Council member- Dr. George Lutomia stated that the Performance Contracts are tailored to ensure measurable outcomes across various areas of the university operations, including academic delivery, research output, infrastructure development, student affairs, and financial management. “Each cost center within the University is tasked with meeting specific key performance indicators (KPIs) that directly contribute to MMUST’s mission of fostering innovation, excellence, and inclusivity,” he stated.
Similarly, the Vice Chancellor- Prof. Solomon Shibairo encouraged all Heads of Cost Centers to collaborate and work towards the successful implementation of the performance contracts, while striving for continuous improvement in all dimensions.
The Vice-Chancellor- Prof. Solomon Shibairo making his remarks at the signing ceremony.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance)- Prof. John Kuria Thuo pointed out that the signing of the contracts is a pivotal step towards improving the University’s management practices and ensuring that the institution remains on track in its quest for excellence. Additionally, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)- Prof. Hussein Golicha applauded the University Management for organizing such events that serve as a platform for reflecting on MMUST’s achievements in the previous years and charting the course for the future. “By cascading the performance contract across all cost centers, MMUST is laying a strong foundation for enhanced efficiency and accountability,” Prof. Golicha reiterated.
The signing of the Performance Contracts.
During the signing ceremony, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Shibairo announced the appointment of Prof. Peter Bukhala as the new Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation). Prof. Bukhala will serve in this key leadership role for six months. The announcement was received with applause from the University managers present. The Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence in Prof. Bukhala’s ability to drive the University’s strategic initiatives in research and innovation. Prof. Bukhala, a seasoned researcher and the outgoing Director of Privately Student Sponsored Programmes, brings a wealth of experience that will support MMUST’s mission to strengthen its research output and enhance innovation within the institution.
In his new capacity, Prof. Bukhala will oversee critical areas including research development, innovation strategies, and long-term institutional planning, as the university strives to maintain its leadership in higher education and academic excellence.
The Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation)-Prof. Peter Bukhala addressing participants at the event.
Prof. Peter Bukhala expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the new role. He outlined his focus on fostering partnerships and creating a robust framework for research development. “Together, we will work to strengthen our research culture, expand funding opportunities, and ensure that MMUST continues to be at the forefront of research and innovations in Kenya and beyond,” stated Prof. Bukhala.
The event was organized by the Directorate of Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Unit headed by the Director, Prof. Joseph Nasongo, and Coordinator- Mr. Henry Wati. In addition to the ceremonial signing, the event also featured discussions on the University’s achievements and challenges that have affected research in the past year, and a roadmap for the future, which was enthusiastically agreed by the attendees. The university aims to ensure that its Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are met to improve the quality of education and research output, while also fostering a culture of accountability.
This signing ceremony marks an important moment in MMUST’s ongoing journey towards achieving its strategic goals for 2024/2025. Certainly, it will foster a strong culture of performance management, accountability, and excellence.
Looking on, Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, Director and Coordinator- Prof. Joseph Nasongo and Mr. Henry Wati respectively witnessing the PC signing.
By Linet Owuor
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
