After a 12-year break, Egerton University has revived its Open Day, bringing together scholars, students, alumni and partners in a colorful event held at the institution’s Sports Pavilion. The event Chief Guest was Cabinet Secretary for Education Migos Ogamba represented Dr Wahome Rureri
The ceremony began at the office of Vice Chancellor Isaac Kibwage, where senior guests were received before proceeding to a symbolic tree-planting session led by the University Council, management and invited dignitaries—an act meant to signify growth, renewal and institutional continuity.
The return of the Open Day, last held in 2013, marks what university officials described as a major milestone in reconnecting the institution with the public while showcasing its academic strength, research capacity and community outreach programmes.
By mid-morning, the pavilion grounds had transformed into a vibrant exhibition arena as faculties, departments and administrative units mounted displays highlighting academic programmes, technological innovations, ongoing research and service delivery initiatives aligned with ISO 9001:2015 quality management standards.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor, accompanied by former university leaders, council members and senior administrators, toured the exhibition stands, interacting with staff and students who demonstrated innovations and explained how various programmes contribute to national development and community transformation.
The event also featured strong participation from students and affiliated schools. Learners from Kilimo Early Childhood Development Centre and Kilimo High School entertained guests with cultural performances, while the Egerton University Music Club added musical flair to the occasion.
A student poet, Hargreaves, delivered a recital titled Thus Until, echoing the university’s enduring motto and historical legacy.
A major highlight of the day was the presentation of the newly launched institutional history book, Thus Until, which documents the university’s evolution and milestones. Speakers noted that the publication helps correct historical misconceptions surrounding the origins of the institution while preserving its heritage for future generations.
In his speech, Dr Rureri Representing the CS Education Migos Ogamba said: “The launch of “Thus Until” is therefore more than a commemorative act. Institutional history serves a strategic function: it reminds leaders and policymakers that decisions taken today will define the trajectory of universities for decades to come. Sound governance, responsible stewardship of public resources and protection of academic standards remain non-negotiable.”
Among distinguished guests were former Vice Chancellors, including James Kiprop Tuitoek and Ezra Maritim, as well as several former and current Deputy Vice Chancellors and senior administrators who joined staff and students in celebrating the university’s renewed engagement with the public.
In a show of institutional solidarity, the Vice Chancellor of Kisii University, Nathan Oyori Ogechi, attended the event and described Egerton as a “mother university” whose academic traditions continue to influence institutions that later emerged from it. He said his visit provided an opportunity to benchmark best practices and strengthen collaboration between the two universities, adding that the historical ties between them remain a source of pride.
The Vice Chancellor of the Technical University of Kenya is Benedict Mwavu Mutua and the Vice Chancellor of Laikipia University participated in the Open day at Egerton University.
University officials said the revived Open Day will now become a regular event aimed at strengthening public engagement, attracting prospective students, and highlighting the institution’s role in advancing research, innovation and skills development. The occasion, they added, reflects Egerton University’s commitment to honoring its heritage while positioning itself for future academic excellence and global competitiveness.
The Open Day culminated in the official launch of the university’s history book, Thus Until, authored by Emilia Illieva and Reuben Matheka and published by East African Publishers. The publication chronicles the institution’s development from 1939 to 2019, documenting key milestones, leadership transitions and the evolution of academic programmes over eight decades.
Speaking shortly after the launch, Vice Chancellor Isaac Kibwage described the occasion as a historic achievement marking the culmination of years of research and documentation. “Institutions should write their history to help learn from best practices, avoid pitfalls and build on their strengths,” he said in a side interview with the press.
Prof Kibwage also commended the whole Open Day organizing committee for successfully coordinating the event, noting that its return after more than a decade reflected strong institutional teamwork and commitment. He specifically thanked Deputy Vice Chancellors Bernard Aduda (Academic, Research and Extension) and George Muthaa (Administration, Finance and Planning) for their support, saying their leadership played a key role in ensuring the day’s activities—from exhibitions to the book launch—were successfully delivered.
“This Book Launch is a day we celebrate the Authors for dedicating their time to put together the University History. The launch of “Thus Until” is particularly significant,” Prof Kibwage Opined.
He went on, “The book presents a thorough, well-researched chronicle of our journey, from colonial-era agricultural training through post-indepence and contemporary eras. Reviews of the book have consistently recognized it as a rigorous and honest account, situating Egerton University within the broader story of Kenya’s higher education development.” he lauded Prof. Emilia Illieva and Prof. Reuben Matheka.
In his address, Council Chairman James K. Sang termed the occasion a celebration of 86 years of institutional existence defined by resilience, excellence and relevance. He said the Open Day demonstrates institutional transparency and stakeholder engagement, affirming the university’s commitment to accountability and service.
Prof Sang noted that the book being launched was of particular significance to Council because it documents how governance structures, leadership transitions and national education policies shaped the university’s evolution. He observed that the publication does not romanticise history but presents Egerton as a living institution that has made difficult decisions and adapted to changing environments while remaining faithful to its mandate.
Written: By Kurian Musa
Communication Officer
