Virginiah Musawa Director, Alumni Relations at MKU addressing alumni in a recently concluded alumni champions reunion held on 2nd August, 2025 at Hotel, Sirikwa in Eldoret.
MKU sets a new standard with alumni awards offering up to Sh6.4 million in prizes
Mount Kenya University (MKU) has launched its Annual Alumni Awards, aimed at recognizing outstanding alumni making exceptional contributions in their fields and communities.
With a top prize of up to USD 50,000 (Sh6.4 million), the flagship initiative underscores the university’s commitment to celebrating success, amplifying impact, and inspiring the next generation of changemakers. Categories for the awards include: professional excellence, public service and leadership, community service, global impact, innovation and entrepreneurship
Ms Virginiah Musawa, MKU’s Director of Alumni Relations, says these awards are more than just accolades. ‘‘They are a celebration of the spirit of possibility that this institution instills in its students from day one,’’ she said.
The university is already accepting nominations for these awards. While many institutions are just beginning to tap into the power of their alumni networks, the MKU has taken a bold and holistic approach. By combining strategic engagement with tangible recognition and support, it has created a model that others in the region are now seeking to emulate.
“We believe that alumni are not just our past — they are our present and our future,” said the Director. “Every initiative, every reunion, every award, every webinar is designed to honor that truth. Together, we are unlocking infinite possibilities,’’ she added.
The University has emerged as a pacesetter in alumni engagement, setting an example for peer institutions through an ambitious and innovative approach that lives up to its motto: Unlocking Infinite Possibilities. ‘As alumni continue to rise across industries, governments, and communities, the university’s commitment to their journey ensures that their impact will be felt for generations to come,’’ Ms Musawa added.
She said that from the boardrooms of multinationals to the grassroots of community-led initiatives, MKU’s alumni are driving change across the globe. Recognizing this potential, the university has redoubled its efforts to engage its graduates in meaningful, empowering, and future-forward ways.
A hallmark of the university’s alumni engagement strategy has been its dynamic series of webinars tailored for personal and professional empowerment. These sessions — led by industry leaders, faculty experts, and accomplished alumni — provide ongoing learning, networking, and mentorship opportunities. From leadership in the digital age to wellness in high-performance careers, the webinar topics reflect the evolving needs of today’s global alumni community.
‘‘True to the alumni motto, Engage, Empower, Evolve, these webinars are more than just talks — they are launchpads for growth, collaboration, and lifelong connection,’’ noted the Director.
Early last month, MKU held a top-drawer Champions Region Alumni Reunion in Eldoret City, bringing together its former students from the Eldoret Campus and Kitale Centre.
Congratulating the former students, MKU vice-chancellor, Prof Deogratius Jaganyi said it marked the inaugural physical reunion of a community that has always been strong, but is now becoming intentional—formally connected, deeply committed and future-focused. “You are champions of your fields. Champions of change. Champions of the values MKU holds dear: integrity, responsibility, excellence, teamwork, inclusivity an innovation,” he said.
The VC said that with over 100,000 alumni around the world, the MKU Alumni community represents an extraordinary resource of diverse talents, experiences and stories that can inspire and support each other in countless ways. He appreciated the MKU Alumni Directorate, whose dedicated work, he said, has created a stable and supportive bridge connecting you to the university.
Prof Jaganyi urged the alumni to give back to the institution by offering to mentor current students, offering internships and job opportunities that open doors for the next generation., and contributing to scholarships, research, and campus development. “Volunteer your time in events, advisory roles, and alumni activities. By giving back, you empower others to succeed and ensure that our university continues to grow as a place of innovation, learning and opportunity,” he said.
Dr. Emily Kirwok, Director of MKU Eldoret Campus and Chair of the Champions Cluster, emphasized the reunion’s core goals—reflecting on the past, reconnecting and inspiring alumni to support current students. She called on alumni to actively contribute through mentorship, internships and employment opportunities.
Keynote speaker, Ms Mercy Wanjiru, Regional Coordinator of the Kenya Private Schools Association (North Rift) and an alumnus- of MKU’s MBA and BBM programmes appreciated the university’s sustained support of alumni engagement. “This is not just an event; it is a coming home, a celebration of who we were, who we’ve become, and who we’re yet to be,” she said.
Wanjiru honoured the visionary leadership, administration and various faculties of MKU. “We belong to a powerful network of professionals, leaders, and visionaries with one thing in common—MKU. You gave us grit, courage, and a reason to dream bigger,” she said.
She pleaded with the alumni to support mentorship programmes, and help place students in internships and industry spaces. “We appreciate the commitment of MKU leadership that has enabled impactful programs that benefit both alumni and the broader MKU community. We are happy to be associated with our alma mater, and we promise to give back through mentorship and other forums,” she said.
The reunion was attended by, among others Uasin Gishu Governor Hon. Dr. Jonathan Bii, who was represented by County Attorney Mr. Silvester Metto, former MKU council chairman Prof. David Serem, university leaders, and alumni representatives. In their addresses, the dignitaries expressed gratitude for the alumni’s continued loyalty and recognized the pivotal role they play as ambassadors of the university.
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