The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Linus M. Gitonga, held a meeting with academic staff members on Friday, April 12, 2024, at the Senate Chambers. The goal of the meeting was to encourage dialogue and structure a path forward to improve service delivery. In attendance were the Vice Chancellor Prof. Linus M. Gitonga, the Ag. DVC P,F&A, Prof. Richard Kiai, Ag. DVC AR&SA Prof. Hellen Kamiri, Registrar P&A Mr. Murage, Registrar Academic Affairs Dr. Wangari Gathuhi, and all academic staff members.
Speaking during the meeting, the Registrar Academic Affairs Dr. Wangari Gathuhi encouraged lecturers to serve students diligently and assist them in securing funding. She stated that lecturers are the university’s best ambassadors through their interaction with students.
On the other hand, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (P, F&A) Prof. Richard Kiai emphasized the importance of productivity. He encouraged members to optimize the university’s resources to achieve maximum output. He also highlighted the significance of lecturers as vital human resources, with time being their most important asset
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Linus M. Gitonga addressing the academic members of staff
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Linus M. Gitonga encouraged the academic members of staff to recognize their achievements and strive to improve upon them. He also urged them to identify areas where they could enhance the university and its students’ experiences. He emphasized that academic staff play a central role in fulfilling the university’s core mandate.
The VC noted the university’s commitment to reforms in CBC training for teachers in the Department of Education thus the training conducted in February by an expert in CBC matters. He encouraged staff to collaborate with local and international professionals to add value to Karatina University. He also stressed the importance of punctuality and his commitment to creating a conducive working environment.
The academic staff members during the engagement with the Vice Chancellor
He also challenged members to engage in community outreach to address local challenges. On productivity, he acknowledged that there was much work to be done and urged staff to think as individuals.
To improve the work environment, the VC announced that promotions would be conducted annually for deserving staff. Regarding the payment of part-time lecturers, he confirmed that they would receive all their dues by the end of the financial year. He also highlighted the need to enroll more self-sponsored students, including staff members who wish to further their studies.