By KURIAN MUSA
Egerton University has witnessed a smooth leadership transition at the Directorate of Income Generating Units (IGUs), with Prof. George Owuor handing over to Prof. Julius Kipkemboi. The event, held at the IGU Office, was attended by staff who expressed their support for the incoming director.Prof. Owuor, who served as the inaugural Director since the IGUs were established in May 2021, reflected on the journey, noting both achievements and operational hurdles.
Prof. George Owuor (left) hands over leadership tools to Prof. Julius Kipkemboi (right) as the new Director of Income Generating Units (IGUs) at Egerton University on June 27,2025, in the presence of IGU staff during a handover ceremony at the IGU Office. The transition marks a continued commitment to enterprise, accountability, and innovation. (Photo: Kurian Musa/Egerton University)
“We’ve made significant progress in building an entrepreneurial culture within the university,” he said. “However, one of the key challenges has been the fiscal policy shift mandating payment through the e-Citizen platform. While it streamlined national collections, it slowed the flow of revenue to our diverse IGUs, delaying service delivery and planning.”He also highlighted an integrity issue that emerged during technical downtimes. “There were cases where some students generated fake M-Pesa messages to access services, especially when mobile service providers experienced outages. These instances required tighter verification systems and vigilance from staff.”
Prof. George Owuor (left) and Prof. Julius Kipkemboi (right) share a light moment during the handover meeting at the IGU Office on June 27,2025. The outgoing and incoming Directors reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration and continuity in driving Egerton University's income-generating agenda.(Photo: Kurian Musa/Egerton University)
Prof. Owuor noted the seasonal nature of IGU business. “There are peak periods when students are on campus and demand is high, and off-peak times during breaks. Understanding these cycles has helped in planning operations and managing resources effectively.”Emphasizing the central role of students, he added, “Students remain our key stakeholders. Their presence shapes our services and business operations.”
Incoming Director Prof. Julius Kipkemboi acknowledged the foundation laid by Prof. Owuor and committed to transparency. “I appreciate the trust placed in me. We must now aim for zero audit queries and ensure every operation is accountable and efficient,” he said.To facilitate a smooth transition, Prof. Owuor handed over detailed briefing notes and a hard drive containing essential documents. The two professors agreed to continue working together to sustain IGU growth.
The IGUs were created to foster enterprise and self-sustainability at Egerton, and this leadership transition marks a renewed commitment to that vision.
