Chuka University Vice Chancellor, Professor Henry Mutembei, has urged students to broaden their horizons beyond textbooks and classrooms by embracing their talents and skills to empower themselves.
Speaking during the institution’s grand finale of its cultural week, Prof. Mutembei emphasized the importance of recognizing education as extending beyond traditional academic realms. He encouraged students to leverage their individual talents and skills not only for personal development but also to make positive contributions to society.
“The concept of academic success should encompass social integration and personal growth,” Prof. Mutembei stated, underscoring that genuine success lies in the ability to engage positively with others and contribute meaningfully to the community.
Chuka University on Friday concluded its annual cultural week, held from the 26th of February to the 1st of March, under the theme “One Campus, Many Stories.”
The event showcased the rich cultural tapestry of various communities, including the Mijikenda, Turkana, Luo, Pokot, Kalenjin, Luhya, Tharaka, Embu, Meru, Kikuyu, Kisii, and Kamba, through performances, traditional regalia displays, and culinary exhibitions.
“The purpose of this five-day festival is to encourage university students to explore and celebrate the richness of their cultural diversity while recognizing the strength that comes from embracing their talents and skills. Through various activities and engagements, the festival aims to foster a sense of unity among students from different cultural backgrounds, promoting peace, inclusivity, and understanding” said Prof. Mutembei,
During the festival, the Luhya community won the cultural dance category, with Kalenjin and Turkana securing the first and second runners-up positions, respectively. In the food and clothing category, the Kikuyu community emerged as winners, followed by Turkana and Embu.
Additionally, the Kikuyu community clinched the top spot in the language, shelter, and culture category, with the Luhya and Ameru communities securing the second and third positions, respectively.
The festival also served as a platform to crown Mr. and Miss Chuka University 2024/25. Eugene Masika was crowned Mr. Chuka University, while Hellen John claimed the title of Miss Chuka University.
Wilson Joshua and Josphet Ochieng secured the first and second runners-up positions for Mr. Chuka, with Joy Mwenda and Sheila Awuor achieving the same in the Miss Chuka category. Brian Kiptoo and Diana Ngugi were crowned Mr. and Miss Popularity.
Evans Muchanga, Chairman of the Chuka University Student Association (CUSA), encouraged students to embrace and celebrate their cultural heritage, recognizing its significance in shaping their identities.
The university celebrated the diverse cultural mosaic within its community, highlighting the shared humanity that transcends cultural boundaries.
