Swearing-in Ceremony of the 16th Student Governing Council

The 16th Student Governing Council (SGC) was officially sworn in on Friday 21^st November 2025 during a jovial ceremony held at the University Conference Hall. The event was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Linus M. Gitonga; the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Finance and Administration), Prof. Richard Kiai; the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic, Research and Student Affairs), Prof. Franklin Wabwoba; members of staff; and student representatives. The University Legal Officer, Ms. Anne Mumbi, officiated the swearing-in ceremony.

The audience keenly following through the swearing in process of the 16^th Student Governing Council.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor congratulated the newly elected student leaders and commended the Electoral Committee for conducting peaceful, free, and credible elections with no appeals filed. He shared his vision for the University, emphasizing the importance of unity, productivity, and collective responsibility in advancing institutional growth. “I want the best for this University,” the Vice Chancellor stated, urging the incoming leaders to serve with dignity and humility. He encouraged them to safeguard their “mental garden,” noting that leadership comes with challenges, but what defines true leadership is how those challenges are addressed. He further assured the Council that the University Management, together with key stakeholders, remains committed to addressing issues affecting students. The Vice Chancellor also underscored the importance of discipline, academic excellence, and mutual respect between students and staff.

The VC Prof. Linus M. Gitonga addressing the audience the swearing in ceremony.

On the other hand, Prof. Franklin Wabwoba the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic, Research and Student Affairs) reminded the Incoming Student Governing Council that leadership is a badge of authority and service. He urged them to distinguish between activism and responsible leadership, and to channel their passion into practical solutions. He emphasized the importance of understanding institutional systems and working within established frameworks.

In his remarks, Prof. Richard Kiai the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Finance and Administration) encouraged the newly elected leaders to lead by example, uphold integrity, and work smart. He reminded them that trust, once broken, is difficult to restore, and urged them to protect the confidence bestowed upon them by their constituents. He emphasized that leadership is service, not power.

The 16^th Governing Council Chairperson Mr. Gerald Mukaria addressing the audience.

The Dean of Students, Mr. Joseph Wanjau, confirmed that the Karatina University Students Association (KARUSA) leadership had met the constitutional threshold as stipulated in the University Amendment Act of 2016 and the KARUSA Constitution.

In his acceptance remarks, the incoming Chairperson outlined key priority areas that the Council will focus on during their tenure, reaffirming their commitment to serving the student body diligently.