Thursday, August 22, 2024

The Vice Chancellor (Ag) Prof. Jesang Hutchinson welcomed the first years officially on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at the University’s Taifa Hall. The First years’ have been reporting and undergoing the registration exercise since Monday, August 19, 2024 in all the campuses. On Wednesday, Aug 21, 2024, every Faculty held its Deans’ address. All the 10 Faculties’ Management took their first years through the University’s procedures, introducing them to the resources and opportunities available for them as they become a part of this great University.

Speaking during the address, the Vice Chancellor congratulated the first years, ‘Congratulations on becoming a part of this iconic and dynamic institution of academic and research excellence. We are welcoming you to a great University marked with history that is linked to the nationhood of Kenya as well as the EAC. From the onset, I want to emphasize that You are not just students; you are now integral members of the great University of Nairobi family. To our international students welcome to the University and welcome to Kenya.'


The Vice Chancellor (ag),  Prof.  Jesang Hutchinson poses for a photo with first years after the VC's address on Thur, Aug 22, 2024

She elaborated on the importance of the VC address ritual, ‘These gatherings are aimed to ease the transition for you freshers and help you to settle down to your new academic environment, which for some might be quite different and sometimes difficult. All of you fresh students may have different expectations while joining your university of choice – UoN!  While you may perceive campus life primarily as an avenue for learning and personal growth, I encourage you to embrace the dual purpose of your time here. This Campus is a place for enjoyment, a venue where you will meet and forge lasting networks, partnerships and friendships.’

Prof. Hutchinson encouraged the students to avoid distractions and over indulgence, ‘We as a University fraternity expect you to focus on what is the most important issue—what brought you here, work hard, think and dream big, watch out for weaknesses and threats to your academic goals, build on your strengths and take advantage of the opportunities available for you. While enjoying this liberating experience at the University, it is crucial to avoid overindulgence of any kind and enjoy your individual choices and lifestyles with moderation. You will surely emerge as the next generation of great researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and global leaders.’

Prof. Ayub Gitau, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs (ag), encouraged the students to always interact with the circulars that the office of the DVC Academic Affairs publishes so that they stay afloat with the latest. He also encouraged them to seek assistance and guidance often from the Dean of Students office.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Enterprise (Ag), Prof. Francis Mulaa,  the Chief Operations Officer, Mr., Brian Ouma, Faculty Deans and Central Administration Heads of Departments were present during the address.

Watch the Ceremony here