The Ag. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Charles Mutai (seated at the middle), Ag. DVC-PRI, Prof. Josephine Ngaira (seated 3rd left), DCCM team and a section of the media team during the VMB.
The Ag. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Charles Mutai, on 3rd May 2024, hosted members of the fourth estate for a media breakfast. This meeting was aimed at fostering collaboration and dialogue with the regional media houses for maximum coverage of the University events. This ‘Vice Chancellor’s Media Breakfast (VMB)’ meeting was organized by the Directorate of Corporate Communications and Marketing (DCCM) in a bid to foster positive, symbiotic relations with the media, presenting them with an opportunity to access information about MMUST’s key activities and research agenda.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Mutai highlighted the ongoing research endeavors at MMUST. He delved into the university’s latest research initiatives, highlighting breakthroughs, collaborations, and future directions in the academic sphere. He revealed that the University’s research portfolio had gone up over the years, courtesy of notable researchers undertaking research projects on various areas of interest.
The Ag. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Charles Mutai addressing journalists during the VMB.
“These academic researches have successfully attracted both internal and external donors and partnerships from all over the continent,” said Prof. Mutai. He encouraged stakeholders to partner with MMUST to help propel University innovations for maximum production.
Commenting on issues of student welfare, Prof. Mutai shared the strategies adopted by the University to enhance student support services and foster a conducive learning environment. He emphasized this, noting that the University is committed to ensuring the well-being and holistic development of students.
Financial sustainability emerged as an issue of interest, as the Ag. Vice Chancellor explored avenues put in place to strengthen the university’s financial stability and resilience. These discussions centered on resource allocation, revenue generation initiatives, and prudent financial management practices adopted to safeguard the institution’s long-term viability. Other issues of concern were the strategies put in place to elevate the university’s international ranking. “We are international as a result of what we do,” noted Prof. Mutai, as he cited some of the achievements attained including publishing in reputable, peer-reviewed academic journals; collaborations and partnerships the University has attained, University’s feasibility and international students’ enrolment as well as student and staff exchanges with international Universities.
Prof. Mutai invited the fourth estate to join the University during the launch of the 2023/24 – 2027/28 Strategic Plan which has been scheduled for 10th May 2024. “Our Strategic Plan is our overarching vision, strategic priorities, and actionable goals, charting a clear course for MMUST’s future trajectory,” he noted.
The Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Josephine Ngaira speaks during the VMB.
Echoing Prof. Mutai’s presentation on research in the University, the Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Josephine Ngaira revealed that the University Council had set aside forty million Kenyan shillings through the University Research Fund (URF) to finance internal research. “Our staff apply for these funds competitively, and they are also open to students across the faculties. This underscores our dedication to advancing knowledge, addressing societal challenges, and enhancing our research capabilities,” she added.
Underscoring the importance of the VMB, the Director, of Corporate Communications and Marketing, Dr. Lydia Anyonje pointed out that the University is keen on working with key media houses across the continent for maximum publicity. She thanked the University Management for supporting this initiative. The Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi was also in attendance.
Journalists during the VMB.
MMUST continues to enhance its visibility on a global scale through outstanding excellence in various fields. In partnering with media outlets by establishing and maintaining good relationships with them, the institution can enhance its brand reputation globally. VMB plays a vital role in driving MMUST towards continued growth and success.
Notably, the VMB addressed efforts to enhance institutional capacity, encompassing faculty development and infrastructure improvements aimed at fortifying MMUST’s operational capabilities.
By Caren Nekesa, Linet Owuor and Rhoda Mwikali
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
