Thursday, 16th October 2025, went into the annals of Karatina University as the University marked two major milestones in one grand event the installation of the 2nd Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Muthure Macharia, and the celebration of the 13th Graduation Ceremony. The ceremony was attended by vice-chancellors from several universities, government officials, members of the clergy, alumni, parents, and students. It featured lively musical performances, innovation showcases, and recognition of outstanding graduates.
A New Era of Leadership: Installation of the 2nd Chancellor
The event began with the installation of Prof. Isaac Muthure Macharia as the 2nd Chancellor of Karatina University, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the institution’s leadership journey. The highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic handing over of the University’s tools of power, signifying his assumption of the ceremonial and moral stewardship of the University.
The robing of the Chancellor
The ceremony’s introduction was conducted by the University Council Chairman, Prof. Joseph Mailutha, who read the Chancellor’s glorious profile. Another distinctive highlight of the event was the robing of the Chancellor. He was escorted in style by the Vice Chancellor, the University Council Chairman, and Dr. Everlyn Anduvare, who also conducted the robing.
The Chancellor receiving the instruments of authority
In his inaugural address, the Chancellor, Prof.Isaac M. Macharia, pledged to steer Karatina University to greater heights by fostering collaboration between academia and industry, supporting student welfare, and enhancing the University’s research and innovation agenda.
The Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Macharia, addressing the congregation
Celebrating Academic Excellence: The 13th Graduation Ceremony
Following the installation, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Linus M. Gitonga, declared the assembly a congregation of the 13th Graduation Ceremony, where more than 1,800 graduands were conferred with degrees across various disciplines.
The VC Prof. Linus M. Gitonga addressing the graduands
Addressing the congregation, the Vice Chancellor congratulated the graduates for their determination and resilience, describing the day as a celebration of excellence, perseverance, and vision, a reflection of the University’s collective achievement and shared aspiration.
“Your determination has yielded rewards. Today, you stand as a testament that diligence, excellence, and community service bear fruit,” said the VC. He urged the graduands to be mindful of how they respond to life’s challenges, noting that success often depends not on what one can control, but on how one chooses to respond to what cannot be controlled.
The VC also reaffirmed the University’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, highlighting recent strides such as the establishment of the School of Computing and Informatics, and ongoing efforts to expand facilities, strengthen teaching, and promote a culture of research and creativity.
The Chairman of the University Council, Prof. Joseph Mailutha, addressing the audience
On the other hand, the University Council Chairman, Prof. Joseph T. Mailutha, lauded the University’s leadership for steering it toward steady growth, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to ethical governance, accountability, and strategic expansion aligned with national priorities. He further urged the graduands to use their knowledge and values to serve with purpose and humility, reminding them that true leadership lies not in titles but in daily choices that uplift others and improve the world around them.
In his graduation remarks, the Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Muthure Macharia, emphasized his vision of steering Karatina University to become a giant in Kenya’s academic landscape and beyond. He lauded the government’s new funding model for public universities, noting that it has significantly enhanced access and sustainability. He also highlighted the importance of industry–university linkages, calling for strategic collaborations to generate solutions and resources that can scale research and innovation between industry and academia.
To the graduands, he offered words of wisdom:
“Graduation marks not an end, but a beginning — a new phase filled with opportunities and challenges. How you handle both will define the person you become. Embrace lifelong learning, pursue excellence with humility, and be proud ambassadors of Karatina University.”
Dr. Carol Hunja, the Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education, addressing the graduands on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary.
Representing the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Dr. Carol Hunja, Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education, congratulated the graduates and commended Karatina University for its continued growth and contribution to Kenya’s education and innovation ecosystem. She further stated that the Ministry will continue to support institutions that align education with societal needs. She also encouraged the graduates to use their education to serve humanity and the nation.
Graduands during the 13th Graduation Ceremony
The dual celebration — the installation of the 2nd Chancellor and the 13th Graduation — marked a defining moment for Karatina University. It signified continuity, renewal, and a shared vision for the future: to nurture excellence, integrity, and leadership that transforms communities and the nation.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025!