If the excitement, cheers and celebrations were anything to go by, Karatina University’s 14th Graduation Ceremony was certainly one for the books! Held on Thursday, 5th November 2026, at the Main Campus, the ceremony saw 2,077 graduands receive their qualifications, marking the largest graduating cohort in the University’s history.
For the Class of 2026, it was more than just a graduation. It was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, late-night study sessions and anticipation. And judging by the reactions from students, it was, in their own words, “the best graduation Karatina University has ever had!”
Members of the University Council, Management, Senate and other distinguished guests during the academic procession at Karatina University’s 14th Graduation Ceremony.
The colourful ceremony brought together the University leadership, Government representatives, staff, parents, guardians, invited guests and the graduating class. It was presided over by the Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Muthure Macharia, with Dr. Carol Hunja, Secretary, University Education and Research, representing the Cabinet Secretary for Education.
The graduating class comprised 29 postgraduate graduands, 2,043 undergraduate graduands and one diploma graduand, reflecting the University’s continued growth and expanding academic programmes.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Linus M. Gitonga addressing the congregation
In his address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Linus Muthuri Gitonga congratulated the graduands and highlighted the University’s progress in academic excellence, infrastructure development, research and student support. Among the milestones he shared were the completion of the new Tuition and Laboratory Block and Student Centre, as well as the ongoing development of the School of Health Sciences building.
Beyond the institutional milestones, the Vice-Chancellor had a memorable message for the Class of 2026: “Protect your mental garden.” He urged the graduands to be intentional about their thoughts, habits, associations and the environments they choose, reminding them that these play a significant role in shaping who they become.
Dr. Carol Hunja Secretary University Education and Research in the Ministry of Education, representing the Cabinet Secretary for Education
Representing the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Dr. Carol Hunja challenged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning and prepare themselves for a rapidly changing world. With artificial intelligence reshaping workplaces and industries, she encouraged them to acquire new skills and use emerging technologies to their advantage. She also urged them to identify challenges within their communities and turn them into opportunities through entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Isaac Muthure Macharia, who also serves as the University’s Chancellor, called on the graduands to carry five core values into the next chapter of their lives: integrity, lifelong learning, service, excellence and kindness. He reminded them that education should not only open doors for themselves but also enable them to create opportunities for others. He further encouraged them to remain connected to the University, return as mentors and continue serving as proud ambassadors of Karatina University.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Isaac Macharia, addressing graduands and guests during the 14th Graduation Ceremony.
Beyond the formal speeches and conferment of degrees, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and celebration. The University Choir, Mwomboko dancers and our talented student performers kept the audience entertained, while the graduands and their families added to the day’s vibrant atmosphere.
A section of the graduands during the 14th Graduation Ceremony.
The entertainment sessions brought even more energy to the occasion, with student MC Jeremy from the School of Education and Social Sciences keeping the crowd on its feet. In one of the day’s standout moments, the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor joined the celebrations, dancing alongside other guests and proving that the excitement was not reserved for the graduands alone!
The Guests pose for a group photo after the successful event
From the academic procession to the final celebrations, the 14th Graduation Ceremony captured the pride, spirit and togetherness of the Karatina University community. It was a celebration of achievement, institutional growth and new beginnings, leaving the Class of 2026 with memories to cherish.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026! The journey does not end here. Go out, make your mark and continue to make Karatina University proud.
