KARATINA UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT HOLDS CONSULTATIVE MEETING WITH MATATU SACCO OWNERS AHEAD OF STUDENT REPORTING

On August 21st, 2025, the University Management, together with the Dean of Students Office, held a consultative stakeholder engagement with Matatu Sacco owners ahead of student reporting scheduled for August 25, 2025. The meeting, held at the Senior Common Room, brought together representatives from 2KG Sacco, Magutu Travellers Sacco, and Kagochi Sacco as well as some members of staff. The session aimed to chart the way forward and strengthen partnerships on transport-related issues to ensure safe, efficient, and mutually beneficial solutions for all stakeholders the students and transport operators.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Linus M. Gitonga, reiterated the University’s commitment to continuous stakeholder engagement. He called upon them to walk and work together with the university. He further challenged the Sacco owners to reflect on the role they play in supporting the University’s mission and proposed collaboration with the County Government to streamline transport arrangements. This includes establishing a designated stage outside the University gate and consolidating multiple matatu stages in Karatina town into a centralized stage for efficiency. He further urged Sacco owners to maintain high service standards through regular vehicle maintenance and encouraged organizing training sessions for drivers and conductors to enhance professionalism.

The VC Prof. Linus M. Gitonga addressing the participants during the consultative stakeholder engagement meeting.

On the other hand, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof. Richard Kiai, underscored the University’s commitment to stakeholder engagement and walking together to achieve our goal. He called upon them to be committed to safety, professionalism, and orderliness in transport services.

Speaking during the event, the Director of Community Outreach, Prof. Margaret Mwenje, emphasized the importance of conflict resolution in fostering healthy relationships between transport providers and the University community. She noted that conflicts often arise from issues such as fare overcharging, unsafe driving habits, or miscommunication. She urged the stakeholders to focus on solving problems rather than “winning arguments,” and to avoid public confrontations that may attract negative attention.

A section of the participants keenly following the proceedings of the meeting.

During the plenary session, participants agreed on the need to establish a clear communication channel for addressing complaints promptly and effectively. They commended the University for maintaining open dialogue, noting that this was the second structured engagement on transport matters, which reflects the institution’s commitment to student welfare.

The participants pose for a group photo after the meeting

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to work together in creating a safe, orderly, and reliable transport system that supports the welfare of students and the University community at large.