Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has officially launched its UNESCO Club, aiming to foster global citizenship, cultural awareness, and sustainable development. The event, which was held on 20th March, 2025 at the University grounds, was graced by the Deputy Director-Ethics of Science and Sports- Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), Dr. Orpha Nyakundi. The launch event was organized by the Institute of Indigenous Knowledge, Cultural Studies and Climate Change (IIKCSCC) bringing together key representatives from the University Management.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Orpha Nyakundi lauded the initiative, commending the Club Founder and Patron, Dr. Lucy Mandillah, for spearheading the initiative. She emphasized that UNESCO and KNATCOM are committed to fostering global citizenship, with climate change being a key priority. Highlighting the ethical and practical challenges posed by climate change, Dr. Nyakundi underscored the vital role of universities in driving sustainable solutions. She expressed enthusiasm about working with MMUST students, noting that the M-UNESCO Club presents a unique platform for young minds to engage in transformative projects that promote sustainability, peace, and cultural heritage preservation.
“Universities are at the heart of research and innovation, making them crucial partners in UNESCO’s mission. MMUST’s establishment of this Club demonstrates its commitment to shaping global citizens who understand and advocate for sustainable development, peace, and cultural preservation,” stated Dr. Nyakundi.
Dr. Orpha Nyakundi, Deputy Director of Ethics of Science and Sports at the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), addresses members of the newly launched MMUST UNESCO Club.
Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Samuel Kubasu Kwashe, lauded MMUST’s growing ties with UNESCO, stating that the Club reflects the University’s commitment to nurturing responsible global leaders.
“The MMUST-UNESCO Club embodies our dedication to shaping globally conscious leaders. I encourage members to embrace UNESCO’s values and make this Club a hub of unity, collaboration, and empowerment,” said Prof. Kubasu. He reiterated MMUST’s commitment to supporting the Club and invited KNATCOM to extend collaboration to other University Departments.
Prof. Samuel Kubasu Kwashe hosts guests from KNATCOM for a courtesy visit ahead of the UNESCO Club launch.
Similarly, Dr. Issah Kweyu, who was representing the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), underscored MMUST’s strong community engagement, highlighting its Community Service-Learning program, which integrates student skills into societal service.
“We are making significant strides in outreach, and our impact is being felt beyond MMUST. The introduction of this Club will further enrich our vibrant student community,” said Dr. Kweyu.
Dr. Lucy Mandillah, the Club’s Founder and Patron, noted that the initiative provides its members with the knowledge and tools to engage in projects that advocate for peace, sustainability, human rights, cultural preservation, and social justice. She also acknowledged sponsors and partners, including KNATCOM, MMUST, The Golf Hotel, Bella Rose Investment Company, KNCCI-Jiinue Program, and St. John Ambulance-MMUST.
“This Club will offer us a space where our voices will be amplified, and our ideas will become catalysts for positive change not only here at MMUST but also in our wider community,” she noted.
Dr. Lucy Mandillah, Founder and Patron of the M-UNESCO Club, plants a tree as part of the launch event’s commemorative activities.
Notably, the launch featured a tree-planting session under the MMUST Greening Initiative, with seven indigenous trees planted and a dedicated MMUST-UNESCO Club tree-growing corner established. Club members also underwent sensitization on resource mobilization and were awarded membership certificates.
Registered in October 2024, the MMUST-UNESCO Club has grown to over 150 members across the University’s eleven schools. Students and staff are encouraged to join and contribute to its mission engaging communities in activities that enhance knowledge, understanding, and collaboration.
A section of participants attentively follows discussions during the UNESCO Club launch event.
Notable attendees included the Coordinator UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet) Kenya, Dr. Richard Iyaya; Coordinator MMUST Greening Initiative, Dr. Edward Mugalavai; Representing the Office of the Dean of Students, Mr. Oscar Waswa; Ms. Mildred Mwanzi from KNATCOM; and the Project Field Officer Jiinue Growth Program- Mastercard Foundation, Mr. Nickel Tari. Also present was the 8th MMUSO leadership. The Club’s student leadership comprises of the Chairperson- Ms. Winnie Maina, Treasurer-Mr. Victor James; Secretary- Ms. Joan Atieno; and the Organizing Secretary- Mr. Enoc Achoki.
Certainly, the launch marks a significant milestone in MMUST’s partnership with UNESCO, positioning the University as a key player in global discussions on peace, sustainability, and cultural heritage. With continued institutional and KNATCOM support, the MMUST-UNESCO Club is set to become a transformative platform for student engagement and community impact.
By Caren Nekesa
Photos by Wangari Wambugu
