Celebrating Innovation and Sustainable Development at MUST during the 12th Graduation Ceremony
On Friday, 4th October 2024, Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) proudly hosted its 12th graduation ceremony, where 2,974 graduands, the largest cohort in the University’s history, stepped into a future filled with promise and potential. This year’s theme, “Mainstreaming Research, Innovation and Technology for Sustainable Development,” resonated deeply as key leaders called on the new graduates to be champions of change in our rapidly evolving world.
Education Cabinet Secretary Mr. Julius Migos, represented by Dr. Esther Thaara, emphasized the transformative power of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education. He noted that while ICT is revolutionizing learning and preparing students for the job market, we must also address challenges like infrastructure and digital access disparities across regions. The government is actively pursuing comprehensive digital training programs for both students and educators to ensure no one is left behind.
Dr. Migos urged universities, including MUST, to align their research with national development goals, fostering stronger university-industry partnerships that translate innovative ideas into real-world applications.
MUST Chancellor and CEO of Safaricom PLC, Dr. Peter Ndegwa, who was honored with an Honorary Doctor of Business Management degree (Honoris Causa) during the ceremony, echoed these sentiments. Dr. Ndegwa shared insights on how technology is reshaping various sectors, including agriculture, health and education. “No matter your field of study, technology will play a critical role in your success,” he said, encouraging graduates to leverage emerging technologies and internship opportunities as they embark on their careers.
During the Ceremony, a special moment unfolded as Dr. Peter Ndegwa was honored with a meaningful gift. On behalf of the entire University family, Dr. Ndegwa was presented with a beautifully crafted carving of a parent and baby elephant, symbolizing his exemplary leadership and nurturing role in guiding the University. The gift, marking both his birthday and his honorary doctorate degree, is a tribute to his pivotal contributions, including the launch of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Institute, the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) Lab and the recently held MUST Innovation and Exhibition Week (MUSTIEW 2024). Dr. Ndegwa’s leadership continues to steer the University toward transformative milestones, symbolizing his enduring connection to the University and its future successes.
The Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. James Ireri Kanya, expressed great joy in addressing the graduates, noting the significance of this milestone in their lives. He stated that they were now part of the alumni of Meru University of Science and Technology, individuals who once occupied those same spaces and emerged equipped with the knowledge, skills and values that empowered them to make positive impacts in communities and nations. On behalf of the University Council, Prof. Kanya congratulated the graduates on their remarkable achievement, highlighting that successfully completing a university program required dedication, perseverance and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In the graduates, Prof. Kanya saw women and men ready to transform society, filled with zeal for innovation and leadership. He urged them to move forward with confidence, apply what they had learned and become the architects of a better tomorrow.
Our Vice Chancellor Prof. Romanus Odhiambo inspired the graduands to think globally. “You are ambassadors of Meru University of Science and Technology, and the values of integrity and professionalism we have instilled in you should guide your actions,” he advised. He reminded them that while they may leave the university, they are always welcome to return and support future students. “Today is not the end of your journey with Meru University of Science and Technology. You are now part of our ever-growing alumni family – our ambassadors in the world. Stay connected to your alma mater, for it is your foundation. As you move forward, take with you the values instilled in you during your time here. Change minds, touch hearts and transform the world. Thank you for making MUST your home away from home.”
Ms. Vera Adhiambo, Co-Founder and CEO of Saniwise Technologies Enterprise Limited, delivered an inspiring speech on behalf of the alumni at Meru University of Science and Technology’s 12th Graduation Ceremony. A proud alumna of the University, Vera graduated with her Master of Science in Sanitation during MUST’s 10th Graduation Ceremony on 11th March 2023. Her passion for addressing sanitation challenges in informal settlements, particularly in Kisumu, led her to co-found Saniwise Technologies alongside fellow graduate Vallary Oyoo. Their innovation, the Saniwise Toilet, is an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution designed to combat sanitation issues. This urine-diverting toilet converts urine into manure and features a convertible Black Soldier Fly or biodigester model that recovers nutrients from waste, creating biofertilizer and larval biomass for agriculture. Additionally, the structure is made from 90% recycled plastic, helping address the plastic waste problem while making the toilets affordable for urban populations. Saniwise Technologies has garnered international recognition, being the 1st runner-up at the UNICEF GenU Competition at COP-27 and receiving a grant from the USAID Western Kenya Sanitation Project (WKSP). Vera’s journey, fueled by her education at MUST, is a testament to how innovation and determination can drive positive change in society.
The MUST Alumni Association (MUSTAA) during the ceremony presented a generous donation of Ksh. 1,000,000 towards supporting students in need. The cheque, presented during the graduation ceremony, symbolizes the alumni’s unwavering commitment to the University’s continued growth and the success of its students.
Wainaina Jane Mukami, the 2024 Valedictorian from the School of Nursing (SoN), delivered a heartfelt and motivating speech. She emphasized that research is not confined to academia but is driven by curiosity and the desire to challenge the status quo. Mukami reminded her fellow graduates that the education they received at Meru University of Science and Technology has equipped them not only for professional success but also for contributing meaningfully to society. Reflecting on the power of creative thinking and innovation experienced during their studies, she urged her peers to use their skills to address global challenges, particularly through research, innovation and technology for sustainable development. Mukami also highlighted the holistic education offered at MUST, which included a market-relevant curriculum, talent nurturing, skill-based training and opportunities for personal growth. She expressed gratitude for the support systems that played a crucial role in their academic success, acknowledging that while their individual efforts were essential, it was the collective support from family, mentors and the University community that truly empowered them to reach this milestone.
As the new graduates step into their next chapter, they carry with them the mission to innovate and contribute to sustainable development, not just in Kenya, but around the world.
Let us celebrate their achievements and the bright future that lies ahead! Congratulations to the MUST Class of 2024. The MUST family is proud of you.