Kenyatta University held the Student Governing Council (SGC) and 22nd Kenyatta University Students Association (KUSA) Induction Seminar 2026 at North Coast Beach Hotel, Mombasa, from October 31 to November 4, 2026. The seminar was held under the theme, "Beyond the Ballot: Transforming Electoral Mandate into Responsible Leadership, Accountable Governance and Meaningful Student Service."
The induction brought together University management, student leaders and representatives from various congressional entities to equip the newly elected KUSA leadership with the knowledge, skills and institutional understanding required to discharge their mandate effectively.
Addressing the student leaders, Vice-Chancellor Prof. John Okumu, PhD, challenged them to move beyond electoral victory and translate their campaign promises into tangible achievements. He emphasised that leadership is anchored in humility, courage, integrity, teamwork and commitment to the common good.
The Vice-Chancellor particularly encouraged members re-elected for a second term to build on their experience, strengthen their leadership capacity and mentor newly elected colleagues. He further urged the leaders to represent the entire student community, embrace dialogue and become ambassadors of the University.
Prof. Okumu also highlighted key institutional achievements, including progress on the 2,500-unit affordable student housing project, the University's Gold Tier recognition, student choir achievements at the 98th National Music Festival and excellence in sports. He challenged the leaders to reflect on their legacy by asking: "What will students say we achieved?"
Throughout the seminar, various University management officials facilitated sessions addressing critical aspects of student leadership and institutional governance.
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Bernard Kivunge, underscored the importance of effective engagement between KUSA leadership and the Academic and Student Affairs Division. He highlighted student representation in University governance structures, including Senate, protection of student welfare and rights and constructive engagement in academic governance.
Representing the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. Paul Gachanja, Prof. Nelson Wawire addressed university governance, student security and safety, emphasising the strategic role of KUSA leaders in promoting a secure and conducive learning environment. He encouraged the leaders to understand the University's administrative structures and translate their electoral promises into action.
Other sessions were facilitated by Acting Director of Student Affairs Dr. Eric Masika, Registrar Corporate Affairs Prof. Mildred Nawiri, Acting Registrar (Academics) Prof. Perez Onono, and Mombasa Campus Director Dr. James Kathuri. Their presentations covered accountable governance, academic administration, emerging student challenges, responsible engagement, institutional protocol and effective leadership practices.
KUSA Chairman Mr. Glen Karani Gikundi also highlighted key student concerns, including implementation of the University's Finance Policy, adjustments to semester dates following the lecturers' strike and the need for consideration of an extension of fee payment deadlines.
The seminar reinforced the importance of collaboration between student leadership and University management in addressing student concerns, strengthening institutional governance and promoting peaceful coexistence within the University community.
As the newly elected leaders embark on their mandate, the induction served as an important platform for reinforcing the values of accountability, integrity, inclusivity and responsible representation, with a shared commitment to meaningful student service.