Following the successful Multimedia University of Kenya Students Association (MUKSA) elections held on 6th March 2025 and the subsequent swearing-in of the newly elected leaders on Thursday 17th March, 2025, the Dean of Students office organized a comprehensive leadership induction program for the new MUKSA team. The three-day training was held in Kilifi County from Wednesday, 9th to Friday, 12th April 2025, with the aim of equipping the incoming student leaders with essential leadership skills required to effectively fulfil their roles and responsibilities.
Under the theme ‘Leading with Vision: Inspire, Influence, Impact’ the induction workshop sought to sensitize the new leaders on their mandate, promote ethical and inclusive leadership, and help them balance academic responsibilities with leadership duties.
The workshop was officially opened by Prof. Livingstone Ngoo, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs, Research & Innovation), who delivered a keynote address on “Effective Student Leadership.” In his speech, Prof. Ngoo congratulated the new student leaders and urged them to approach their roles with a sense of purpose and integrity. He applauded the Dean of Students and his team for conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections, which he described as a solid foundation for transformative student leadership.
Dr. Paul Obonyo, Dean of Students, also addressed the participants during the opening ceremony. He acknowledged the challenges of leadership and reminded the students of the need for self-care, teamwork, and innovative problem-solving. Dr. Obonyo encouraged them to approach leadership as a collaborative and impact-driven endeavour. He further guided them on how to balance leadership and academic responsibilities.
The training emphasized a holistic leadership approach aimed at empowering MUKSA leaders to make meaningful and lasting contributions within the university community. Through a series of interactive sessions led by various facilitators, the student leaders were equipped with practical tools to enhance their competencies in strategic planning, governance, communication, decision-making, strategic thinking, conflict resolution, financial accountability, and campus security—essential attributes for effective leadership. The program also covered critical areas such as and the role of student leaders in promoting MMU’s brand and reputation. Participants were challenged to think long-term, uphold the university’s core values, and transform their election manifestos into actionable, sustainable projects that align with MMU’s vision and mission.
The workshop concluded with a closing ceremony presided over by Dr. Albert Kipkosgei Kochei, Chairman of the MMU Council, and Prof. Geofrey Rurimo, Acting Vice-Chancellor of MMU.
In his address, Prof. Rurimo reminded the student leaders of their critical role as a bridge between the student body and the university administration. He advised them to remain committed to their responsibilities, adhere to institutional policies, and always pursue peaceful and constructive means of addressing issues. Prof. Rurimo emphasized that leadership is not just about ambition but about positive influence, responsible action, and sustained impact.
On his part, Dr. Kochei shared six key pillars for effective leadership: embracing lifelong learning, developing emotional intelligence, effective communication, taking initiative, seeking feedback, and leading by example. He called on the student leaders to collaborate with the university administration in building MMU’s profile as a top-tier institution. He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to making MMU the best university in the region—a goal he noted can only be achieved with the full support and active participation of student’s leadership.
The student leaders expressed their gratitude to the university administration for the opportunity to attend the training and the support provided since taking office. They pledged to work diligently towards enhancing student welfare and strengthening MMU’s reputation as a centre of academic excellence and innovation.
As they embark on their leadership journey, the student leaders are better equipped to serve with integrity, dedication, and strategic focus —upholding the university’s values and championing the interests of their peers and the broader MMU community.