The University is a haven that offers a natural environment to nurture the intellectual well-being and talents of students, Egerton University Vice-Chancellor Professor Isaac Kibwage told students during their orientation.
Speaking at Kilimo hall yesterday, Professor Kibwage said there are staff who are ready and willing to assist students. He was accompanied by
“Our academic staff will be your allies in your learning experience. They are your greatest resource. They are applying their expertise through teaching, research, and practice to address the unique challenges befalling our country,” He explained.
He advised them to stay close with their lecturers during lectures, practicals, and during their free time and get to know them. he also told them to report any challenges to the departmental heads and the Dean of Students. The Vice-Chancellor reminded the learners to take exams seriously. He noted that some students during their stay in campus, fail to take resits.
He cautioned students to seek help whenever they are unwell and unable to do exams. There are resits and special exams for cases that are reported, he opined.
Open-door policy
“We value teamwork in this institution and it is necessary that you do so as well. My office has an open-door policy. Let students visit my office when you have an issue that is pressing and need my attention. You may also offer a solution to some of these issues,” said Professor Kibwage.
Nevertheless, the VC also cautioned students from the use of drugs and alcohol. He reminded them that as an expert in Pharmacy, drugs react differently on people and take diverse durations. He explained that some drugs have adverse effects on some people while on others the drugs may not show any effect. Learners were also advised to seek guidance and counseling services if they fell into drugs and substance abuse.
Egerton University has a well-developed sporting facility on Campus. Learners were advised to make use of these facilities to unwind and socialize. They were also told that there are unlimited opportunities, so they should enjoy their time here by learning, exploring, and working together.
“Visit our facilities: Botanic Garden, Lord Egerton Castle, Tour the campus and also the surrounding environment,” he said.
Lifelong learning
Egerton offers holistic and lifelong learning experiences. The students got advised on career matters, lifelong learning, and how to adjust to life as a student.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic Affairs, Professor Benard Aduda advised the students to ensure they follow the university rules.
“Though there are no bells around you, time management is key, attendance of lectures and taking exams seriously. If you fail, you will have to resit and sometimes we terminate students who cannot perform. I hope we shall finish together at end of your stay here,” said Professor Aduda.
"There are channels to pass your grievances if there are any. Follow the University rules because we want you to graduate in time. Learn to number your days, " said Prof. Richard Mulwa Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration, Planning & Development). He was speaking during the same forum.
In his remarks, Prof. Joshua O. Ogendo Principal, Nakuru Town Campus College. "There is no University in East and Southern Africa that can beat us in certain areas we have strength. We go for nothing less than excellence." He noted that the Town Campus is a serene environment and all the students follow the same University regulations as in main campus.
Chancellors’ Essay Competition
The University, through the Chancellor, has established a Chancellors’ Essay Competition to be held in the 2022/2023 Academic Year. This is an attractive competition for you and you are encouraged to compete. The price value is Kshs. 250,000 with several categories of winners. First Price – Kshs. 50,000, Second – Kshs. 40,000, Third – Kshs. 30,000, Fourth – 20,000, Fifth – Kshs. 10,000
The competition will be open for all categories of students and therefore you are encouraged to take part in such University Co-curricular activities which are ongoing at different levels and times in the University.
The Vice-Chancellor Professor Isaac Kibwage was joined by some of the Student leaders during the orientation of the First years. He encouraged the new students to make use of the leaders whom they participated in putting in leadership.
Parents Portal
The University Launched the Parents’ or Guardian Portal recently. This is a dynamic way of allowing parents to access information on the students’ portal and monitor their academic progress at the University.
“During your registration, your parents were also requested to register and now we have over 4325 parents’ details and their contact details. In due course they will be accessing your academic, financial, and living life on campus,” he stated.
Professor Kibwage asked the students to be careful to avoid discouraging their parents, guardians, or sponsors when they see them not doing well in Campus. The information is to make the parents more involved in their academic progress.
