Distinguished Alumni Kapila and Ayuko Visit Egerton University After Decades Abroad
Egerton University was privileged on Tuesday to host a heartfelt homecoming for two distinguished alumni — Mr. Manmohan Kapila, Class of 1963, and Mr. Kenneth Ayuko, Class of 1975. Their visit marked a powerful moment of reconnection with their alma mater, which they fondly remembered as the premier institution in East and Central Africa for agricultural education.
Now a globally accomplished professional residing in the United Kingdom, Mr. Kapila recounted his inspiring journey from the humble classrooms of Egerton College to international success. He expressed deep appreciation for the education and values imparted to him, which he credited as a key foundation for his achievements.
“The training I received here gave me a competitive edge globally. It’s truly emotional to walk the same paths I walked over 60 years ago. Egerton has transformed beyond what I could have imagined,” said Mr. Kapila, a father of four and a proud grandfather.
Accompanied by his fellow alumnus Mr. Ayuko, the two took a nostalgic tour of the campus, reminiscing about the old Egerton College days. They spoke with admiration about the institution’s rich legacy, describing it as a centre of academic excellence that attracted learners from across Africa.
Their visit was made more meaningful by the presence of several university leaders and members of the Egerton University Alumni Association (EUAA), who came together to celebrate and reconnect with the returning alumni. Among those present were Prof. Richard Mulwa, Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Finance and Planning, who received the guests and ushered them to the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom.
Others present included Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization; Prof. George Owuor, Director of Research and Extension; Dr. Richard Rop, Chairman of EUAA; Dr. Wamukuru Kuria, Secretary General of EUAA; Dr. Anne Tenya, Treasurer; Dr. Oeba Duke, Nakuru Chapter Chair; and Mr. Moses Kiogora, the Association’s Brand Ambassador.
The tour included visits to several iconic buildings that once served as student hostels but now host vital university functions. These included the former college administration block, now housing the Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soils; the Kilimo Hall; Holland Hall; and buildings that now accommodate the Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources Development.
At the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom, Mr. Kapila shared heartfelt memories of the university’s evolution and expressed his gratitude to the university leadership for keeping the institution’s legacy alive. He particularly thanked the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, for the warm reception and for helping him relive and reconnect with his personal history.
In a symbolic gesture, Prof. Kibwage presented Mr. Kapila with a handcrafted soapstone carving of a white rhino — a memorabilia with deep cultural significance.
“This is for you,” said Prof. Kibwage. “The rhino has a horn that acts like a GPS, guiding it back to its roots. You have done the same by tracing your way back to Egerton. This carving is from Tabaka, my hometown. May it remind you of your roots. Next time, come with your family.”
Prof. Kibwage hailed the visit as a rare but powerful reminder of the enduring bonds alumni have with Egerton University. He noted that alumni like Mr. Kapila and Mr. Ayuko serve as living proof of the university’s global impact and called on other alumni to reconnect and support their alma mater.
Mr. Ayuko also expressed his joy at returning to Egerton and praised the strides the university has made in infrastructure and academic growth. He encouraged students to cherish their time at the institution and make the most of the opportunities available.
