MMUST Graduation Addresses Challenges in New Funding Model

By Bellbut Strilus
Kakamega’s Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) held its 21st graduation ceremony, with a total of 3,927 students celebrating their academic achievements.
The event marked a significant milestone for the university and was graced by dignitaries from the Ministry of Education, university officials, and parents.
The Faculty of Education dominated the graduation numbers, producing 1,113 graduates—the highest among the fields. Meanwhile, the Faculty of Medicine registered the fewest graduates, with only 32 students completing their studies.
The Permanent Secretary for Higher Education, Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, represented Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba at the event.
Dr. Inyangala addressed the challenges facing the new university funding model, urging collaboration among stakeholders to address concerns.
“There have been concerns, and we are listening. That’s why His Excellency, President Dr. William Ruto, established a national committee to address these grievances and refine the funding model,” explained Dr. Inyangala.
Cabinet Secretary for the State Department for Micro-Enterprise Development, Wycliffe Oparanya, The Permanent Secretary for Higher Education, Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, MMUST Chancellor Dr. Pamela Sitienei and other dignitaries during MMUST 21st Graduation Ceremony.
She called on stakeholders across the country to share their input with the committee, emphasizing the need for a participatory approach to develop an effective funding framework.
Dr. Inyangala also challenged universities to diversify their revenue streams to reduce reliance on government funding.
“We need to find alternative ways to fund our institutions to ensure the delivery of quality education,” she urged.
She concluded her speech by applauding parents and guardians for their unwavering support of the graduates.
“To the parents and families, we extend our deepest gratitude for standing by your children emotionally and financially. You are the pillars behind their success,” she said.
Cabinet Secretary for the State Department for Micro-Enterprise Development, Wycliffe Oparanya, echoed similar sentiments while congratulating the graduates. He encouraged them to use the knowledge gained at MMUST to create meaningful opportunities in the job market.
“I want to partner with you to support the creation of sustainable and secure jobs. I am ready to help you enterprise the skills you’ve acquired from this great university,” said Oparanya.
He was accompanied by Permanent Secretary Susan Mang’eni, who reinforced the importance of equipping graduates to tackle real-world challenges effectively.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo acknowledged the lower number of graduates compared to previous years, attributing it to stricter academic standards and technical challenges that have since been addressed.
“This year’s total number of graduates may be lower because we have been enforcing higher academic standards. I encourage students to remain steadfast and focused on their education. Measures have already been put in place to prevent issues like missing marks,” said Prof. Shibairo. He wished the graduates success in their future endeavors.
The ceremony concluded on a high note, with the graduates and their families celebrating years of hard work and dedication. The MMUST community reaffirmed its commitment to excellence, innovation, and addressing challenges within higher education.