The Meru University of Science and Technology Alumni Association (MUSTAA) held its 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 16th May 2025. The event was convened at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) in Nairobi under the theme: “Alumni Connectivity in Strengthening and Empowering the Future.”

The meeting brought together alumni representatives and distinguished guests to reflect on the Association’s progress and chart the way forward. In attendance were members of the University Management.

Key Discussions and Highlights:

The Alumni Association has played a significant role in supporting key development initiatives at Meru University of Science and Technology. Over the past four years, the Association has provided bursaries to students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, enabling them to pursue higher education. Currently, the Association is implementing a student walk way along-side the main University cabro road. All these works have been undertaken with the little finances paid off by the graduating class each year.

These impactful projects, achieved with limited financial resources, underscore the importance of collective action. Members were therefore called upon to explore innovative ways of pooling resources and making strategic investments to support vulnerable students and other University supportive projects. The meeting also emphasized the importance of forward-thinking and embracing technology in projects that align with and advance the University’s long-term vision.

The AGM was honoured to have Ambassador Dr. Francis Kirimi Muthaura as the Chief Guest, a distinguished alumnus of Meru University of Science and Technology. In his keynote address, Dr. Muthaura emphasized the importance of unity, collaboration, and purpose-driven engagement within the Alumni Association. He noted that “there is nothing difficult to achieve where people are united and bring together the right professionals.”

He urged alumni to consistently place the collective interests of the Association and the University above individual pursuits. To secure a sustainable future for alumni-led initiatives, Dr. Muthaura strongly encouraged the immediate establishment of an endowment fund, which would serve as a lasting legacy of support for future generations of MUST students.

The Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. James Ireri Kanya, underscored the critical role of alumni in enhancing the academic experience of current students. He envisioned a future where the Association hosts scholars and innovators who share their experiences and insights, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Prof. Kanya reminded the alumni of their responsibility as ambassadors of MUST, encouraging them to ensure that future generations benefit from the same opportunities they once enjoyed.

The Meru University of Science & Technology Vice Chancellor, Prof. Romanus Odhiambo addressed the Alumni. He thanked the alumni for their unwavering unity and continued support to their alma mater. He pointed out that the University was very grateful for the bursary donations it has received for the last five years and the ongoing student walk way along the main university road.   He welcomed the Alumni to positively contribute towards curriculum improvement so as to see MUST graduates compete effectively in the labour market.

In attendance were the University management members including;

1. 1. 1. Ag. DVC (AFP) – Prof. Hilda Omae
      2. DVC (ASA) – Prof. Simon Thuranira
      3. Registrar (ASA) – Dr. Stephen Karanja
      4. Finance Officer – CPA Nephat Njeru
      5. Ag. HRM – Ms. Evelyn Gitonga

Over eighty alumni representative delegates attended the function. New officials were nominated into MUSTAA office for the next five years namely:

1. 1. 1. Mr. Wangila Wabomba – Chairperson
      2. Mr. Solomon Mugambi – Vice Chairperson
      3. CPA. Senan Kawira – Secretary
      4. Ms. Sophia Mukami – Organising Secretary
      5. Ms. Aurelia Mutua – Resource Mobiliser
      6. Mr. Cornelius Koech- Trustee member
      7. Dr. Ibuathu C. Njati- Director Career and Alumni Services– & CPA. Lucy Itonga –Secretariat (both nominated by the University).

The outgoing Chairperson, Dr. (Arch) James Kimathi, commended the outgoing team for their dedication and accomplishments over the last five years. He extended his best wishes to the incoming officials, encouraging them to uphold unity, transparency, and the core interests of the Association and the University.

In conclusion, the function was very successful and alumni were encouraged to continue expanding networking roles of linking MUST students with the labour market so that MUST could position herself as a beckon of hope in the region.