Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education
CAMPUS ROVER
JULY 2008
Pomp and dance as
varsity is launched
Higher Education Assistant Minister, Dr Kilemi Mwiria (centre) is helped by Mrs Jane Gathoni to cut a cake baked in the shape of Mt Kenya . Looking on is Mr Simon Gicharu
(right) and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Stanley Waudo (extreme left)
Mt Kenya University becomes a reality
T
here was pomp and dance as Mt
Kenya University was officially
launched on June 6, 2008.
Thousands of Kenyans from
all walks of life thronged the university’s
playfield to witness the birth of a pri-
vately-funded university that is tipped to
revolutionalise higher education in Kenya.
Contacts: General Kago Road, P.O. Box 342-01000, Thika Kenya Tel. +254-20-2088310/2050313/4 +254-67 24285 Fax: +254 020 2050315 Cell: +254 0720790796 Email: info@mku.ac.ke, Web: www.mku.ac.ke
A M t K e n ya U n i v e r s i t y N e w s l e t t e r
Various groups entertained the guests
who included government dignitaries,
politicians and parents. The staff of the
new university went overdrive to ensure
everything went on well and smoothly as
planned. They were seen busy ushering
visitors, serving bottles of water as the
guests followed proceedings of the event.
Various groups including Kayamba Africa,
Day Star University, Kenyatta University
and Mt Kenya University choir performed
during the historic event. Kenyatta Univer-
sity Dance Troupe and and Daystar
University Choir left the audience in
stitches with their hilarious dance and
song respectively that bordered on com-
http://www.mku.ac.ke
What becoming a
university means
T
he journey to becoming a
university has been long
and torturous. Finally the
Government of Kenya, through the
Commission for Higher Education
(CHE) approved the proposal to
establish Mt Kenya University and
awarded a Letter of Interim Authority
on May 29, 2008. This culminated in
the official launch of the university a
week later, on June 6, 2008.
After four years, the university will
be ready for the grant of a Charter by
the Head of State and start enjoying
the benefits of other international
universities. Deserving students can
now approach the Higher Education
Loans Board (HELB) for loans to fund
their studies at Mt Kenya University.
The university has taken over
all the programmes that were being
offered by its precursor, Thika
Institute of Technology.
The new university now has
powers granted by the Government
to mount degree, diploma and
certificate programmes, examine
and issue certificates. However, Mt
Kenya University has decided to
continue collaborating with JKUAT
in offering degree programmes in
Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor
Medical Laboratory Sciences. Some
diploma programmes will continue
being examined by Kenya National
Examinations Council and KASNEB.
Mt Kenya University now has
the Government mandate to offer
self quality assurance on all its
programmes through training,
teaching, research and examination.
The university will also be accountable
to the quality of graduates it will
be churning out with certificates,
diplomas, bachelors degrees, masters
as well as PhDs. Mt Kenya University
is now mandated to initiate and
edy.
enter collaborations with both local
Backed by Administration Police Band,
and foreign institutions in teaching,
before the ceremony started, members of
training, student and staff exchange
staff and students made a procession along
programmes as well as research.
Thika Town that virtually brought busi-
The university will be run on a
ness into a momentary standstill.
day-to-day by the Vice-Chancellor on
On arrival, Higher Education Sci-
behalf of the university council.
2 JULY 2008
The chief guest and other dignitaries couldn’t resist to dance to the tune of well blended music pelted by
Kayamba Africa
Cont. Pg 2
ence and Technology Assistant
Minister, Dr Kilemi Mwiria,
toured science labs and officially
opened the university library.
Accompanied by the Board of
Trustees Chairman, Mr Simon
Gicharu, the Vice-Chancellor,
Prof Stanley Waudo and Com-
mission for Higher Education
Secretary, Prof Everret Standa,
the minister proceeded to tour
the ultra-modern fa-
cility which he hailed
as a masterpiece.
Dr Kilemi who
was the chief guest
at the function,
commended Mt
Kenya University
for deciding to offer
medical and science
and technology pro-
grammes, disciplines
the country needs
most in its drive to
achieve Vision 2030.
The minister not-
ed that it was refresh-
ing to see a private
university taking the bull by the
horns by introducing sciences
and technology programmes
others have shied away from.
I hope that MKU will grow
to become a world-class uni-
versity and play in the league
of Havard and Stanford uni-
versities in the United States.
He appealed to Kenyan par-
ents to first ensure no univer-
sity places are available in both
public and private institutions
Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education
before sending their children
to study in foreign universi-
ties. “In fact our institutions
offer world-class education
of very high standards when
compared with some foreign
universities,” said the minister.
The MKU Chancellor, Dr
Victoria Wulsin said she will
support efforts to internation-
alise MKU including part-
nerships, research, staff and
student exchange programmes.
“I will be more than willing
to support initiatives meant to
increase and strengthen MKU’s
international collaborations
with like-minded institutions.
I am sure MKU and others it
shall choose to collaborate with
shall share their comparative
advantage in research. Staff and
student exchange programmes
will also be encouraged so as
to share both learning and re-
search experiences to improve
humanity,” said the Chancellor.
MKU to mount “virtual
banking” programme
M
t Kenya University (MKU) in not only academic education but also practical
collaboration with the SwissContact East professional skills. Also, the growing number of the
Africa Financial Services will in August youth in this country needs a perspective with which
introduce a virtual banking programme. to build themselves a living, not only as employees
“There is nothing ‘virtual” about a virtual bank. but increasingly also as entrepreneurs, says the MKU
There are real customers, real money, real success Vice-Chancellor, Prof Stanley Waudo.
and real failures, explains Ms Veronique Su, the Prof Waudo says MKU will definitely deviate from
SwissContact regional programme manager. the traditional classroom teaching methodologies and
She says the model financial institution (virtual adopt a holistic approach that will impart different
firm) has successfully been implemented in Kosovo skills both technical, social and personal which
and has equipped the youth with relevant knowledge, bring a mindset change of trainees to professional
skills, attitudes and experience that enable thinkers. The VC is challenging employers to partner
them to easily access self and formal with learning institutions in developing
employment. customised curriculum to suit their
“In Kenya, we have established personnel needs.
that there is a missing link between According to Waudo, this
Government Chief Whip and
theoretical training and the world programme will will provide
Juja MP, Mr George Thuo, said
of work. Trainees from learning increased training opportunities
the new university’s spillover
institutions do not access jobs for the increasing number of school
effects will greatly transform
easily as they cannot fit in the job leavers to enable them to be self-
the face of Thika Town as well as
market due to lack of industrial supporting.
help it regain its lost glory. “Jobs
exposure. This forces firms to It will also provide practical
will be created and market for
spend a great deal of resources skills and attitude which will lead
farm products will be expanded.
for recruitment and induction,” to income-generating activities in
The challenge is for the Thika
explains Su. the urban and rural areas through
Town Council to provide water,
She says the present financial self-employment or wage employment.
roads, sewage and other services
institutions cannot cope with providing The virtual model financial institution
to attract more investors,” said
required industrial attachment for trainees will encompass simulation of trading
the Government Chief Whip.
to fit in the professional work adding that the few processes, learning by doing, teaching by guiding and
Mt Kenya University has
who secure attachment are not given holistic training performing real business procedures such as credit
made history as Kenya’s
as it’s not part of the financial institutions’ core management, loan delinquency evaluation and other
first private institution to
business to train. processes.
mount science and technol-
Furthermore, due to the sensitivity of financial “The model will give a chance to students to learn
ogy programmes.
institutions’ information, trainees may not be exposed practically how real financial institutions such as
The management is
to real work environment. And it is specifically in this Saccos, Micro-finance institutions, banks, financial
laying the ground to offer
area between academia and entrepreneurship that Mt community-based organisations operate, skills that
both diploma and degree
Kenya University has successfully carved its niche. are not found in one single programme offered
programmes in medicine,
This is illustrated by the fact that the Advanced in Kenyan universities and middle-level colleges,”
pharmacy, medical labora-
Certificate in Micro-finance Programme to be explains Su.
tory sciences, medical engi-
offered in the form of virtual banking is designed Among the courses offered in the programme
neering, business informa-
to produce entrepreneur graduates and not simply include accounting for small and medium-size
tion technology, business
people prepared for existing job markets. enterprises, legal aspects in micro-finance, evolution
management science, clini-
The first intake of students for a certificate in and paradigm shift in micro-finance, resource
cal medicine,among others.
micro-finance is scheduled to take place in August. mobilisation, entrepreneurship development skills,
The university has inher-
The curriculum for the programme was jointly financial management, ICT in business management,
ited all certificate, diploma
developed between Swisscontact and MKU staff. among others.
and degree programmes
“We live in a society that increasingly demands
formally offered by its precur-
sor, Thika Institute of Technol-
ogy. Degree programmes in
pharmacy and medical labora-
tory sciences will be mounted
as soon as CHE completes the
validation process on the same.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof
Stanley Waudo says more aca-
demic staff are being recruited
to teach the soon-to-be ap-
proved degree programmes by
CHE.
 Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education JULY 2008 3

Academic excellence is our priority

Prof Waudo, Vice-Chancellor
T
hika Institute of
Technology (TIT), the
precursor of MKU, has
left a legacy in regard to academic
resources and reputation in co-
curricular activities. MKU will
build on the TIT achievements.
I pay tribute to the staff and
management of the former TIT
for their untiring efforts that have
culminated in the establishment
of MKU.
Translating knowledge into
market-oriented skills and
competencies is a prerequisite
for discoveries, innovations and
inventions. We all know that
discoveries, innovations and
inventions are the foundation
of knowledge economy. It is,
therefore, necessary that scientific
and technological thought be
applied in socio-economic
development processes to facilitate
industrialization as envisaged in
the vision 2030.
In spite of the importance
of science and technology in
knowledge economy growth
processes, training opportunities
in these areas are limited resulting
in a national manpower shortage.
It is encouraging to note
that the Chairman of the Board
of Trustees, in spite of the high
investment requirement, is
committed to supporting training
in science and technology, and
build a training culture that will
produce innovative and creative
graduates who will be capable
of spearheading the growth of
national economy. Partnership
with the public and private sector
will play a major role in resource
mobilisation.
We are gratified that the
Commission for Higher
Education (CHE) has validated
the Bachelor of Business and
Information Technology degree
programme. The Commission
is in the process of validating
degree programmes in Pharmacy,
Business Management Science and
Medical Laboratory Sciences. The
four programmes are supposed
to be offered in phase I of the
university ten-year strategic plan.
We believe that MKU’s capacity
to build human capacity will
be enhanced by offering diverse
programmes. Degree programmes
identified for offer in Phase II of
the university ten-year strategic
plan include Medical Engineering,
Medicine, Community Health,
Animal Health and Production
among others.
The university academic
programmes will be based in three
schools, namely;
• School of Health Sciences
• School of Pure and Applied
Sciences, and
• School of Social Sciences
MKU will endeavour to have
qualified personnel, sustain an
effective academic governance
structure for managing its
academic programmes, promote
innovative, practical and market-
driven programmes, implement
innovate teaching and learning
approaches, work closely with
regulatory and professional bodies
in advancement of academic
standards.
MKU will also heavily invest in
laboratories, and other teaching
physical facilities. The university
already has an ultra-modern
library, and other teaching physical
facilities courtesy to its precursor,
TIT. The university has adequate
land for future expansion.
We shall also strengthen and
expand academic linkages and
collaborations with both public
and private sectors that will
promote mutual benefit. MKU
shall introduce programmes such
as open/virtual learning that
will be offered through a non-
residential training approach.
The future of MKU is bright.
The catalyst for the university
development will be the goodwill
and support from stakeholders
and national policies on higher
education. I invite qualified
Kenyans and non Kenyans to
study at Mt Kenya University.
— Prof Stanley Waudo,
Vice-Chancellor

Chancellor pledges full support The Chairman lays

bare plans for MKU
I
was unable to attend the launch because and overwhelming problems – like HIV/Aids
of my obligations to the people of Ohio, – and find solutions. Solutions that work.

Dr Victoria Wells Wulsin, MD, DrPH, Chancellor
Vision
To be an African role model in
training, research and innovation
in applied science and
technology.
Mission
Attain world-class standards in
training, research and innovation
for sustainable individual
prosperity and social development.
where I am campaigning to be their
United States Congresswoman. However, I
was represented by my colleague at Soteni
International and longtime friend Mrs Randie
Marsh. I trust MKU will grow into a first
class, internationally-renowned educational
institution of higher learning.
I am one of the founders of Soteni Kenya.
Soteni comes from the Swahili words “sisi sote:
” all of us. All of us together can work to end
this horrible scourge devastating our villages,
our towns, our cities, and our families. HIV/
Aids has taken too many of our loved ones, too
many of our leaders, too many of our brothers,
too many of our daughters, to stop now.We
must work – all of us – together to end this
epidemic. Together, we can.
Soteni began right here in Kenya, not far
from Thika. It was formed by Kenyans from
Bungoma, from Kisii, from Kakamega, from
Meru, from Kisumu, from Nairobi, all of
whom knew that all of us, together, could
fight poverty and disease through a joined
effort against HIV/AIDS. Our founding
fathers and mothers were blessed to have the
unique support of Doctor Kilemi Mwiria, who
now serves as Vice-Chairman of the Board
of Directors of Soteni Kenya. Dr Kilemi is
currently the Assistant Minister for Higher
Education in the Cabinet of the Government
of Kenya.
Mount Kenya University has been formed
with a very similar purpose to Soteni. Together,
students, faculty, administrators, and other
well-wishers can tackle the problems we face
today. MKU will train and inspire and give the
tools to students who will face such complex
Philosophy
Harness knowledge in applied
sciences and technology for the
service of humanity.
Solutions that make sense. Solutions that will
bring us together, a stronger, more successful
nation.
I have dedicated my life to social &
economic justice throughout the world,
through my work as a scientist, professor,
physician, mother, and activist. I have worked
for the United States Agency for International
Development (USAid), Harvard University,
and other institutions. Devoted to education,
science, and health, I have helped start Soteni,
over five years ago, to support the families of
Kenya – from the rural shambas to the city
skyscrapers. I have been fortunate to work for
Soteni for much of that time, and am honored
now to be Soteni’s director. I will be more
than willing to support initiatives meant to
increase and strengthen Mt Kenya University’s
international collaborations with like-minded
institutions. I am sure Mt Kenya University
and others it shall choose to collaborate with
shall share their comparative advantage
in research. Staff and student exchange
programmes will also be encouraged so as to
share both learning and research experiences
to improve humanity.
I am honoured to be the Chancellor of
Mount Kenya University. Together – all of us
– we will make Mount Kenya University the
beacon of innovation, intelligence, integrity,
and inclusion, that our country and our world
so richly deserve.
We will do all we can to ensure the success
of Mount Kenya University – today, tomorrow,
and into the future for our children and our
grandchildren.
— Dr Victoria Wells Wulsin, Chancellor
Academic character
The university intends to uphold
an academic characher
based on African traditional
values and innovations with
emphasis on total development
of an individual talent, moral,
rectitude and competitiveness
so as to enhance student
scientific and/or technological
advancement.
W
hen I was thinking of a world class university. Havard,
about contributing Oxford, Yale, Massachusetts
to humanity in my universities were founded by
small way, I was faced with several human beings.
choices but I opted to establish The capital investment
an educational institution for in science and technology
science and technology that programmes such as medicine,
will increase opportunities to Pharmacy, Medical Engineering,
our Kenyan youth yearning for Medical Laboratory, applied
university opportunities. Then the sciences to mention just but a few
dream snowballed into Mt Kenya areas of interest of the university,
University (MKU) which I dream is very heavy. The challenges in
will grow and be as tall as Mount the investment is not limited
Kenya itself! MKU places an to financial matters
emphasis on science and but incorporates
technology as depicted others such as text
by the university’s books, training
academic character equipment
which focuses on among others.
the development For instance
of well trained most if not
professionals all critical
equipped with textbooks in
technological science and
and scientific technology
knowledge. are not locally-
The management authored and
of this university published. The
will be setting aside 50 implication of
million every year in support this is that the foreign
of innovations and community published books are extremely
outreach programmes that impact expensive. For instance some core
positively on national needs. text in pharmacy costs Sh100,000
At the same time more human and is only found in the USA. The
and financial resources will be book is not only expensive but also
harnessed to provide skills and time-consuming in sourcing and
knowledge in digitalisation of shipping it here. As things stand
curricula, e-learning and distance now, even our academicians in our
learning. This means that this institutions of higher learning are
university in the short-run will authoring primary school
be capable of serving over 100,000 textbooks because they are sure
trainees in a class-less state using of benefiting financially. They
few lecturers and maximising have shied away from publishing
on e-learning. This plans and university books because very few
others are well articulated in students and researchers will buy
the university’s strategic plan them. I appeal to the Government
for the years 2008 – 2018. To to provide incentives to university
achieve this short-term and long- scholars to author cheaper but
term strategic objectives this relevant textbooks for the higher
university needs to invest Ksh3 education sector especially in the
billion to achieve the desired status areas of Science and Technology.
4 JULY 2008 Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education

SCHOOL OF APPLIED SOCIAL SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTANCY AND FINANCE
DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
a) Bachelor Of Business Management Science Mean Grade C+
a) BACHELOR OF BUSINESS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (BBIT)
b) Bachelor Of Commerce Mean Grade C+
Background information c) Diploma In Banking And Finance KCSE mean grade C
Business Information Technology degree course is among new programmes developed by the
university to address the ever changing practices of managing institutions, businesses in very d) Advanced Certificate In Microfinance KCSE mean grade C-
competitively globalised and liberalised world economy.

The BBIT course therefore will provide an interdisciplinary approach for training business DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS AND DEVELOPMENT STUDIES
information technology professionals who need working competencies in all sectors of the
economy and can work in any company in Kenya and the world at large. a) Bachelor Of Business Management Science Mean Grade C+

b) Bachelor Of Commerce Mean Grade C+

Course Structure
In order to achieve the desired indicative outcomes of training graduates with real world KCSE mean grade C /Certificate
technological experience in the fields of business and information technology for the economic c) Diploma in Business Management Science
in Business Management Science
growth of Kenya, region and the world at large. The trainees will have the opportunity of
concentrating in either of the following track/option areas: d) Certificate in Business Management Science KCSE mean grade C-

n Business Computer Software Engineering KCSE mean grade C / Certificate

e) Diploma In Business Administration
n Business computer hardware engineering in Business Administration
n Application of Information Technology in Business (Management information
f) Diploma in Journalism snd Mass Communication KCSE mean grade C
Systems, web design and development, wireless and Mobile communication
technologies among others) g) Diploma in Early Childhood Development snd Education KCSE mean grade C
n Methodologies and Technologies in Business Information Systems
h) Teacher Certificate in Early Childhood Development and Education KCSE mean grade C-
Course Admission requirements:
KCSE Minimum Grade C+ and grade C (Plain) in mathematics and English
OR DEPARTMENT OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM
Diploma in Business Information Technology or its equivalent from Mt Kenya a) Diploma in Food And Beverage Management KCSE mean grade C
University or from any other Institution recognised by the Mt Kenya University
Senate b) Diploma in Hotel Catering Management KCSE mean grade C
OR
KCSE C Plain with C Plain in Mathematics and English and Pre-university Certificate c) Diploma in Food Production KCSE mean grade C
offered by Mt Kenya University
d) Diploma in Food and Beverage Sales and Service KCSE mean grade C
b) DIPLOMA IN BUSINESS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY e) Diploma in Front Office and Housekeeping KCSE mean grade C
Entry requirement
Minimum aggregate grade of C in KCSE and grade C in Mathematics and English f) Diploma in Tourism and Business Studies KCSE mean grade C
OR
A certificate in Business Information Technology from Mt Kenya University or any g) Certificate in Tourism and Business Studies KCSE mean grade C-
other institution recognised by Mt Kenya University Senate.

c) ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELING STUDIES

Entry requirement a) Bachelor Of Counselling Science Mean Grade C+
KCSE mean grade of C Plain
b) Diploma/Certificate in Counselling Science
d) ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Options
Entry requirement § Guidance and Counselling
KCSE mean grade of C- with C- in Mathematics and English § HIV/AIDS Management
§ Psychological Counselling
e) DIPLOMA IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY § Family and Marriage therapy
Entry requirement § Education Psychology
KCSE mean grade and English and grade C- in mathematics or a certificate in relevant § Health Counselling
area.
Grade C/P1 Teacher Certificate holder and Grade C-/P2 teacher certificate holder for Diploma and Certificate
f) CERTIFICATE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY programmes respectively.
Entry requirement

f) CERTIFICATE IN INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY BRIDGING PROGRAMMES

Entry requirement
KCSE mean grade of D+ a) Bridging in Mathematics and English

b) Pre-University Certificate

Apply to the Registrar – Academic Affairs, quoting your desired programme of study and enclosing your result slip and course Application fees of Kshs. 1,000 deposited at any branch of
Equity Bank Account No . 0090292435067 or a money order / Bankers cheque payable to Mt Kenya University.

NAIROBI MARKETING OFFICE
P.O. Box 56895 - 00200, NAIROBI
AFYA CENTRE, MEZZANINE 2, TOM
MBOYA STREET
TEL LINE: 020 2088317
Cell: 0721 236195
FAX: 020 – 2050315
COAST UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
Mombasa Trade Centre
(Formerly Ambalal House)
3rd and 4th Floor, Nkuruma Road
P.O. Box 42702 – 80100
MOMBASA
Tel:020 – 2088313/4/5
Email: coastcampus@mku.ac.ke
SOUTHERN SUDAN CONTACT OFFICE RWANDA CONTACT OFFICE
Hotel Intra Africa Joseph Musis
Tel: +256477103682 JMK Sail, Rubangula House
JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN Justice Avenue, Opp Muhima Police Station
southsudan@mku.ac.ke P.O. Box 5440, Kigali
Tel: 08551 199; 08307212, +25008551 199
rwanda@mku.ac.ke

General Kago road, P.O. Box 342-01000 THIKA, Tel: 020-2088310, 020 2050313/4, 067 24285/24229, Cell: 0720 790796, Fax: 020 2050315, Email: info@mku.ac.ke, Website: www.mku.ac.ke
 Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education JULY 2008 5

SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES SCHOOL OF PURE AND APPLIED SCIENCES

PROGRAMMES MODE OF MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS PROGRAMMES MODE OF MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
STUDY STUDY
DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACY
Bachelor Of Pharmacy Full time Mean Grade C+ DEPARTMENT OF PURE AND APPLIED SCIENCES
a)Diploma in Pharmaceutical Full time KCSE Mean grade C Bachelor Of Analytical Chemistry Full time Mean Grade C+
Technology
b) Postgraduate Certificate in Phar- Full time B Pharm, BVM, BSc Biology, BSc. Chemistry, a) Diploma in Science Laboratory Full time KCSE mean grade C with C- in English,
maceutical Marketing BSc. Zoology, Dip in pharmacy, Diploma in Technology / School Biology, Chemistry and D+ in Mathematics
Clinical Medicine, Diploma in Nursing holidays / Physics

DEPARTMENT OF CLINICAL MEDICINE b)Diploma in Analytical Full time KCSE Mean grade C with C- in Chemistry
Chemistry
Bachelor of Clinical Medicine and Full time Mean Grade C+
Surgery c) Diploma in Applied Biology Full time KCSE Mean grade C with C- in Biology
Diploma in Clinical Medicine and Full time Mean Grade C
Surgery DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HEALTH AND PRODUCTION
DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCES Bachelor of Animal Health and Full time Mean Grade C+
Bachelor Of Medical Science Full time Mean Grade C+ Production
a) Diploma in Medical Laboratory Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, Biology,
Sciences Chemistry and Mathematics / Physics a) Diploma in Animal Health and Full time KCSE mean grade C with C- in Biology and
Production Chemistry. D+ in Mathematics / Physics
b) Certificate in Medical Laboratory Full time KCSE Mean grade C- with C- in English, b) Diploma in Dairy Technology Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in Biology and
Sciences Biology, Chemistry and C- in Mathematics / and Management Chemistry, D+ Mathematics / Physics
Physics
c) Certificate in Animal Health Full time KCSE Mean grade C-, D+ in Biology and
DEPARTMENT OF DIETETICS/NUTRITION and Production Chemistry, D in Mathematics / Physics
a) Diploma in Food Technology and Full time KCSE mean grade C with C- in Maths, Physics.
Processing C- in Biology/Chemistry/ Physical Sciences. d) Certificate in Artificial Full time Certificate in Animal Health and Production
Insemination / KSCE Mean Grade of C-
b)Diploma in clinical and commu- Full time KCSE Mean grade C with C in biology/home
nity nutrition science /physical sciences, C- in Mathematics; DEPARTMENT OF ENGINEERING
c) Certificate in clinical and com- Full time KCSE Mean grade C- Bachelor of Medical Engineering Full time Mean Grade C+
munity nutrition
DEPARTMENT OF DENTAL TECHNOLOGY a) Diploma in Medical Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, C in
Engineering Mathematics, Biology / Biological Sciences,
a) Diploma in Dental Technology Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in Biology/
Chemistry Physical Sciences./ Physics
Chemistry/ Physical Sciences, C in English, C-
in Mathematics / Physics b) Diploma in Chemical Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, C in
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH Engineering Mathematics, Biology / Biological Sciences,
a) Diploma in Community Health Full time KCSE mean grade C Chemistry Physical Sciences./ Physics

c) Diploma in Electrical Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, C in

b) Diploma in Environmental Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, Biology, Engineering Mathematics, Biology / Biological Sciences,
Health Science Chemistry and C- in Mathematics / Physics Chemistry Physical Sciences./ Physics

d) Diploma in Electronic Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, C in

c) Diploma in HIV / AIDS Manage-
ment
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH RECORDS
a)Diploma in Health Records and
Information Systems
b) Certificate in Health Records and
Information Systems
a) Certificate in Community Health
Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in Ennglish /
Engineering Mathematics, Biology / Biological Sciences,
Kiswahili, Biology or KCE Division II, Credit
Chemistry Physical Sciences./ Physics
Pass in English / Kiswahili, Biology, KACE
– Principal pass in Biology e) Diploma in Instrumentation Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, C in
and Control Engineering Mathematics, Biology / Biological Sciences,
Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, Biology, Chemistry Physical Sciences./ Physics
Chemistry and C- in Mathematics / Physics f) Diploma in Computer Full time KCSE mean grade C with C in English, C in
Full time KCSE Mean grade C- Engineering Mathematics, Biology / Biological Sciences,
Chemistry Physical Sciences./ Physics
Full time KCSE mean grade C-
g) Certificate in Computer Engi- Full time KCSE mean grade C-
neering

h) Certificate in Electrical Full time KCSE mean grade C- with passes in

Installation Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry

General Kago road, P.O. Box 342-01000 THIKA, Tel: 020-2088310, 020 2050313/4, 067 24285/24229, Cell: 0720 790796, Fax: 020 2050315, Email: info@mku.ac.ke, Website: www.mku.ac.ke
6 JULY 2008 Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education M t K e n ya U n i v e r s i t y
Launch Pictorial Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education JULY 2008 7
8 JULY 2008
CHE thumbs up for Mt Kenya varsity
During the award of the Letter of Interim Authority to Mount Kenya University on May 30, 2008, the Chairman of the Commission of Higher Education,
Prof Kihumbu Thairu and the CEO, Prof Everret Standa praised the university and below are abridged versions of their remarks.
T T
he commission looks to
this day with a sense of
achievement knowing
that Mt Kenya University enters
into the category of institutions
marked ‘recognised’.
This label catapults this
institution onto a new platform,
where expectations will be
heightened and performance
brought under close public
scrutiny.
What we are witnessing today
is but a first step in a journey
towards full accreditation. The
university can therefore not
afford to be complacent but
ensure that all recommendations
made by the Commission are
implemented in order that the
pace is quickened.
I am pleased to note that this
institution places on emphasis
on science and technology and
that the academic character of
the proposed university focuses
on the development of well
trained professionals equipped
with technological and scientific
knowledge.
University education is a
powerful mechanism for social
(Above) Prof Kihumbu Thairu presents a Letter of Interim Authority to Mt Kenya University Board of Trusteed Chairman, Mr Simon Gicharu on
May 30, 2008. (Below) MKU Students entertain guests during the launch of the university on June 6, 2008
Mt Kenya University
and economic transformation
of the nation. However, for it to
deliver quality service, it must
operate effectively.
It is incumbent upon Mt Kenya
University to be innovative in
the way that mobilises resources
and carries out its functions. In
particular this institution must
diversify its resource base, ensure
relevance of the education and
training programmes and carry
out research that responds to
national needs.
The education and training
offered by Mt Kenya University
must be demand-driven, gender-
responsive, technologically
informed, research supported,
democratically managed and
globally marketable. These
challenges must dictate the
agenda of this and other
university institutions as
they endeavour to realise the
Millennium Development Goals.
An institution such as this one is
best placed to provide skills and
knowledge in such areas such as
digitalisation of curriculum, e-
learning and distance learning.
On my own part I feel quantity
should however never replace
quality, and the growth and
expansion of universities
should not be judged purely in
numerical terms by the ‘product’
they strive to mould.
My major criticism of some
education institutions is that they
clamour competitively to develop
academic giants but moral
dwarfs.
I challenge this institution to
break away from this mould and
create a whole being inculcated
with moral and ethical values in a
world badly in need of a re-focus
in values and etiquette.
I commend those who worked
tirelessly to ensure that Mt Kenya
University is a reality.
he award of the Letter
of Interim Authority
(LIA) is a an important
milestone in the history of
Mt Kenya University. The
Authority signifies yet another
upward growth for the
institution in its academic
sojourn. The long journey the
management took in ensuring
all set requirement by the
commission are met has borne
fruit.
The granting of the LIA
signifies that Mt Kenya
University has satisfactorily
met the commission for Higher
Education’s Quality Assurance
Standards and requirement in
the following key areas:
n Governance structures
n Human Resources
n Physical Facilities
n Equipment
n Library Resources
n Finances
This follows a series of
inspection and curriculum
visits by the commission to
ascertain the preparedness of the
university to be granted LIA. As
spelt out in the University Rules
(1989) the Letter of Authority,
Private varsity students
to get HELB loans-CEO
S
tudents in all public and
private universities in
Kenya will soon have an
opportunity to equally and fairly
apply for loans administered
by the Higher Education Loans
Board (HELB).
The Chief executive officer of
HELB, Mr Benjamin Cheboi said
once the Commission for Higher
Education gives the green-light
on the matter, students, including
those in private universities
operating under Letters of
Interim Authority, will be given
the loans based on their levels of
needyness. Cheboi was speaking
during Mt Kenya University
launch where he delivered a
keynote speech titled Challenges
Facing Higher Education in
Kenya: Financing Perspective.
Cheboi praised the Mt Kenya
University Board of Trustees
Chairman, Mr Simon Gicharu
for setting a good example to
other Kenyans by fully paying
the loan he was granted when
he was at Kenyatta University in
the late 1980s. Cheboi presented
Gicharu with a framed certificate
of clearance of the loan.
In his speech, Mr Gicharu
challenged other former
Scaling the heights of education
empowers the sponsors and
Board of Trustees to:
n Continue development of
physical facilities;
n Assemble academic resources;
n Set up a governing body for
the university;
n Advertise the academic
programmes; and
n Admit students.
The commission for Higher
Education will continue to
exercise its mandate of ensuring
that the kind of education
offered to Kenyans by higher
university students in gainful
employment to follow his
example, be patriotic to enable
other Kenyans access and
complete university education.
Mr Cheboi said if all former
recipients of the government
grants could pay up, the board
will provide the loans to more
university students.
Cheboi quoted the former UN
Secretary-General Kofi Annan,
who once said “Education is a
human right with immense power
to transform. On its foundation
rest the cornerstones of freedom,
democracy and sustainable
human development.”
education institutions is of
high standards. In this regard
stringent standards will be
enforced in respect of physical
facilities, staff, content and
relevance of programmes as
well as management as well as
management and governance.
We shall continue to re-
inspect Mt Kenya University’s
programmes either in their
entirety or specific areas, in
order to ensure that they meet
the set standards.
It is my believe that the
graduates churned out from Mt
Kenya University will contribute
to the development of social and
economic spheres of the country.
I urge that the university
promotes value adding activities
that enable the creation and
passing on of knowledge.
Sharing information on bets
practices is essential in the
promotion of innovation and
research in strengthening higher
education.
The Commission will continue
to work closely with the
university regularly to ensure
that quality of programmes are
not at any time comprised.
He also quoted former USA
President J F Kennedy who said:
“Our progress as a nation can be
no swifter than our progress in
education. The human mind is
our fundamental resource.”
Cheboi said the government
can increase access by
concessioning the establishment
of universities as it is happening
in Botswana. He also called for the
charging of fees at the actual unit
cost and enhanced support for
students through loans. “Students
who are not able to pay ought to
be given loans, scholarships and
bursaries,”said Cheboi.
Cheboi praised Mt Kenya
University for recovering on
behalf of HELB at least Sh835,000
from former recipients of the
loans who are currently in
its payroll. The HELB CEO
appealed to corporate bodies
to support education through
financing courses relevant to
their industries especially the
meritorious students adding
that scholarships through
endowments should also be
started an encouraged.
Cheboi also challenged well-to-
do Kenyans to exercise the spirit
of philanthropy.

University now launches
community service fund
Aerial view of a cross section of Mt Kenya University
A
s part of its social cor-
porate responsibility,
Mt Kenya University
has established what
will be known as Mt
Kenya University Community Sup-
port Initiative Fund.
The fund will consist of money
received in the form of donations,
grants and gifts from various sources
and specifically designated for the
fund. The Chancellor of Mt Kenya
University is the sponsor of the fund.
An initial amount of Sh500,000 has
been allocated to
the fund for supporting one project
per year.
The fund shall be administered by a
steering committee of five (5) mem-
bers appointed by the Chancellor.
The purpose of the fund shall be to
facilitate activities that impact posi-
tively on the following:
l Protection and conservation of
the environment.
l Natural resource management.
 Health
l Food security and
 Community empowerment in ad-
dressing socio-economic issues.
To bridge the gap between university
and the community.
l To enhance students, staff and
community relationships.
l To support initiatives that pro-
mote sensitization and education
of the public on activities that
promote high standards of living.
l To build local capacity to address
issues related to socio-economic
development.
l Only MKU students and staff
groups shall qualify to apply for
the fund. No single individual
shall be a recipient of the fund.
Eligibility will be at the following
three priority levels.
l 1st priority level will be students
groups.
Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education JULY 2008
l 2nd priority level will be student
staff groups.
l 3rd priority level will be staff
groups.
Any interested community-based
organisation.
Application shall be on the basis of a
concept paper. The paper shall have
to conform to a prescribed format.
A project concept paper shall not
exceed eight (8) pages. Typing shall
be double spaced. The paper shall
consist of the following sections.
i. Preamble.
ii. Rationale/Justification.
iii. Objectives.
iv. Activities.
v. Implementation.
vi. Expected output.
vii. Implementation time frame.
viii. Monitoring and Evaluation.
ix. Budget.
Mentoring
a. Mentoring will be necessary for
effective implementation of ap-
proved projects.
b. There will be a mentor to serve
as a consultant during the im-
plementation of an approved
project.
Limitations
a. Administrative costs shall not
exceed 20% of the total project
9
budget.
b. The fund shall not be used for
purposes related to bursary mat-
ters, gifts, anti-social activities
among others.
c. Projects will be implemented at a
time when students are on holiday
to avoid interfering with teaching
and learning processes.
Recognition Award
a. There will be a recognition award
for outstanding and successful
implementation of approved
project(s).
b. To qualify for the award, recipients
of the fund shall show evidence of
significant contribution to the
community.
Commencement
The Community initiative Fund will
be operational from September 1,
2008 and will be launched accord-
ingly.
10 JULY 2008 Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education
Kenyans embrace
the birth of MKU
M
t Kenya university is
destined for big things.
Since its launch, on
June 6, 2008, there have been a
lot of inquiries on what it will be
offering. It is unique in the sense
that most of the programmes
are in science and technology.
The courses being offered in the
university in three schools which
are headed by deans.
Within the school we have
departments under the head of
departments. In all, MKU has
twelve departments and we an-
ticipate more as new programmes
are introduced. We also intend
to have other sections within the
department that will deal with:
admission, examination, advisory
and placement and curriculum
development.
The university will continue
offering training at all levels, that
is; certificate, diploma, degree
and post-graduate studies.
One aspect that we want to
incorporate in the university is
the hierarchal progression where
a student can proceed from cer-
tificate to higher levels. There will
also be room for credit transfer
from institutions and programs
recognised by the senate. The
university will also offer train-
ing for examination bodies such
as KASNEB, ICM, CITY AND
GUILDS KNEC, among others.
The students will be admitted un-
der the Center for Entrepreneur-
ship and Business Development.
The centre will be headed by
a director and all other programs
will be examined and certified
by the university Senate. The
university has also developed a
governance structure to facilitate
Enthusiastic students read a newspaper supplement on the launch of Mt Kenya University
administration in the first phase
of the development.
The former systems of TIT
have been restructured to fit the
university set up. The new set up
has established a division in the
academic to deal with sports per-
formance and creative arts. The
institution has also established
spacious offices for its staff.
Currently the university is in
the process of admitting its first
batch of Bachelor of Business
Information Technology (BBIT)
and Bachelor of Medical Labo-
ratory Sciences (BMLS). These
are very marketable courses
that integrates information and
communication technology to
business and equips graduates
with tips relevant to the modern
world. BMLS also enables gradu-
ates to work in hospitals, research
institutions as well as industries/
factories as researchers.
To cater for those with lower
qualifications, a diploma in busi-
ness information technology and
certificate in business informa-
tion technology will be offered.
Also the diploma programme
in medical laboratory sciences
will continue being offered and
examined by MKU.
Another new development in
the university is a modern studio
to be used by the journalism and
mass communication students.
It will also be essential for any
recording within the university.
Our long term goal is to open
and operate a TV and radio sta-
tions for training purposes and
to serve the surrounding com-
munity in terms of education and
entertainment, the core values of
mass communication.
Fairness to all
M
t Kenya University plans to give fair consideration to all
applicants. The university will always inform all appli-
cants its decision and the basis for such decisions within a
reasonable period of time. We encourage applicants to provide their
e.mail addresses for easier and more convenient communication.
Admission to Mt Kenya university is open to applicants who meet
all the admission requirements provided it is within MKU capacity.
English is the language of instruction and assessment at MKU.Mt
Kenya University fosters equal opportunities for its students and
staff. MKU selects students according to academic merit, without
discrimination as regards to sex, race, creed, religion, political affili-
ations, disability or ethnicity.Foreign students will be selected based
on qualifications deemed equivalent to Kenyan qualifications.
Academic year is divided into three semesters each compris-
ing of 14 – 16 weeks (January – April, May – August, September
– December). Intake dates are in May and September but for short
courses intakes are in January and June.Credit transfers (exemp-
tions) will be received by students who demonstrate high potential
and qualifications at a previous level.Students who wish to pursue
education while they are still working will be involved in parallel/
evening/distance learning programmes. Students who have been
enrolled to the normal regular programme but wish to enroll for
another course may do so through those programmes.
Mt Kenya University allows students, under very special circum-
stances, to change courses at the beginning of the first year, during
the orientation period (2 weeks) provided one is qualified.Students
who wish to have an academic leave should consult their Heads
of department & Dean of students. Academic leave (maximum of
one academic year) may be granted on basis of health problems,
financial problems or any other reason as may be accepted by the
MKU university Senate.Withdrawal from the university – students
should clear with the university before departure.Interviews for
admission are encouraged where free career guidance is given to
empower students to make informed choices. MKU website is also
an informative tool where prospective & current students can get
more information.
The Chairman, Mr Simon Gicharu with Higher Education
Assistant Minister Dr Kilemi Mwiria (right) toast to mark
the birth of Mt Kenya University
Journalists at work during the launch of MKU
Headstart for
our graduates
The university has put in place a mechanism of ensuring that its
graduates are fully baked to satisfy the market demand. The univer-
sity is working on how all students are going to be absorbed by the
market and enhance the policy of compulsory internship.
The university has formed a linkage office in each of its three school
to ensure that all students who complete the coursework are sent
for the internship for value addition. This will create a strong bond
between the industry and the university thus it will provide a synergy
to the vision 2030.The industry will not need to retrain the interns
on their prospective appointments. Mt Kenya University faculty
will work closely with the industry to develop more market driven
courses for enhanced development.
 Mt Kenya University: Scaling the heights of education JULY 2008 11
NEWSROUND-UP
Coast Campus opening soon
The university has a campus is
located at Mombasa Trade Center
(former Ambalal House), Nku-
rumah Road. The campus will
offer most of the courses available
MKU teaching staff pose for a group picture ahead of the launch
at the main campus.
Varsity buys new bus
The management through its
evaluation and response, it has
purchased anew bus. The bus will
be used by students and staff for
academic excursions and other
varsity functions.
First graduation
Mt Kenya University has planned
for its first graduation ceremony
in April 2009. The graduates from
MKU’s precursor (TIT) who
pursued- certificate, diploma and
degree programmes will gradu-
ate on this auspicious occasion
and awarded Mt Kenya University
certificates.
The occasion will also be used as a
thanks-giving day for our parents,
sponsors, guardians and graduan-
ds, staff and all stakeholders.
All prospective graduands should
contact the Registrar (Aca-
MKU Students pose for a picture outside the university library demic Affairs) through the email;
examination@mku.ac.ke for
further details and update on their
contacts
Alumni association revamped
The office of Registrar (Academic
Affairs) wishes to inform all the
former students that they should
register with the MKU Alumni
Association giving their mailing
addresses, telephone numbers
and email addresses. Allgraduates
of the precursor of MKU, Thika
Institute of Technology, should
also register. Visit the Mt Kenya
University website www.mku.ac.ke
for more details.
CHE approves Medical
Lab programme
The Commission for Higher
Education has given MKU a
go-ahead to mount Bachelor
of Medical Laboratory Sciences
(BMLS) degree. The approval of
BMLS makes it two the number
of MKU degree programmes.
MKU students present food donations to a Red Cross staff to distribuute to victims of post-election violence
The university currently offers
Bachelor of Commerce degree in
conjunction with Jomo Kenyatta
University of Agriculture and
Technology (JKUAT). MKU has
also been offering JKUAT’s BMLS
degree programme. Prior to the
approval of the degree programme,
CHE had conducted extensive
audit of MKU’s preparedness in
terms of academic resources, labs
and equipment and was satisfied.
Other programmes waiting to be
approved soon include Bachelor of
Pharmacy. MKU is currently offer-
ing a diploma in Pharmaceutical
Technology.
MKU joins IUCEA
Mt Kenya University has applied to
join the Inter-University Council
of East Africa (IUCEA). The re-
gional body has over 40 members
drawn from both Kenya, Uganda
and Tanzania. The member
universities are both public and
private chartered or those operat-
ing on letters of Interim Authority.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Stanley
Waudo explains that membership
to IUCEA means the university
will get international exposure,
attract scholars and students from
around the world. “MKU staff
will also be eligible to compete for
scholarships and research grants
administered by IUCEA,” says
the VC. MKU’s application was
endorsed by the Commission for
Higher Education and forwarded
to ICUEA’s head office in Kampala,
Uganda. MKU students will later
this year be free to participate
in the lucrative Third Edition of
Celtel Africa Challenge where they
can win up to Sh3.6 million for the
university and Sh360,000 for each
of the four contestants that shall
represent MKU. ICUEA works
closely with Celtel Ltd in admin-
istering the championship that
Egerton University has won for
two years in a row.
12 JULY 2008
Varsity to nurture talent in
sports & performing arts
M
t Kenya
University
recognises
the value of
the development of God-
given talents in sports,
creative and performing
arts and the fostering
of recreational needs
of students and staff in
promoting good health. It
also recognises that con-
siderable publicity value
attends the achievements
of its students in the areas
of sports, creative and
performing arts.
To this regard the MKU
has established and main-
tains an administrative
structure for the organisa-
tion, coordination and
control of all sport creative
and performing arts activi-
ties. This takes the form of
permanent salaried ad-
ministrative staff under the
office of Registrar – Sports,
Creative and Performing
Arts which works closely
with the respective sports
team captains and group
leaders appointed by the ac-
credited sports, creative and
performing arts clubs in the
university.
The university has
committed itself to the
promotion of a variety of
recreational and competi-
tive sporting, creative and
performing arts activities by
MKU students perform a Maasai dance during the launch of MKU
providing adequate facili-
ties on campus; encourag-
ing its students and staff to
participate in these activities;
and upholding the norms
of good sportsmanship and
creativity in the performing
arts.
The university has estab-
lished the following activities
on campus which the stu-
dents engage in after classes
Sports
Rugby, soccer, basketball,
swimming, hockey, volley-
ball, lawn tennis, table tennis,
handball, badminton, body
building, Billiards, Darts,
Board games
Creative Performing Arts
Drama/Theatre, Dance
(Traditional, Salsa, Pop
etc), Music (Choir, Secular,
Gospel etc)
Administration Police Band lead a procession along streets of Thika town ahead of the launching ceremony of MKU
All the activities are con-
ducted simultaneously after
classes. The university is
one of the few institutions
that boast of a ultra-mod-
ern swimming pool, basket
ball court, indoor games
hall, theatre, playing field,
volleyball court, lawn tennis
court and a body building
gymnasium.
Mt Kenya University is
Scaling the heights of education
committed to build a culture
of sporting and creative and
performing arts by scaling
the heights to world class
status. This is hoped to be
achieved with the develop-
ment of a proposed modern
sports complex in its 55 acre
land 4 km off Thika town.
It is planned that the sports
complex will encompass
all the relevant sporting
disciplines. Also proposed
is a modern auditorium/
theatre with a sufficient
sitting capacity to allow
for total appreciation of
the university’s creative
and performing arts.
We expect to involve
our students in the main-
stream national, regional
and international sports
and performing arts arena
both at the level of uni-
versities and professional
level whichever will be
applicable to the com-
petence of our students.
This we hope to achieve
by engaging the sporting
teams in the mainstream
sporting leagues and
exposing our performing
artists in events that can
nurture and compliment
their talents.
We envision a future in
which Mt Kenya Univer-
sity shall be rewarding
sporting, creative and
performing artistic tal-
ent through educational
scholarships, nurturing and
developing world class sports
personalities and performing
artists and most importantly
graduating all rounded stu-
dents with excellent academ-
ic qualifications and excellent
social/cultural exposure to
assist them lead fulfilling
lives after graduation from
Mt Kenya University.