Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa has been inaugurated as the second chancellor of Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST).
The vice chancellor of Meru University praised Mr. Ndegwa for his career successes, highlighting various achievements and his commitment to giving back to society.
Ndegwa was handed the instruments of power by the university’s former chancellor Dr. James Mwangi who is the CEO of Equity Group Holdings, which includes Equity Bank.
As he accepted his new role, the Safaricom boss stated,
“As I take over the mantle, I commit to equally dedicate myself to take this great institution to the next level. I look forward to making worthy contributions towards the growth and success of this institution.”
He also committed to ensuring high standards of education at the institution.
“My commitment to academic rigor will be unwavering, ensuring that our students receive a world-class education that prepares them for the challenges of the 21st century.”
On employment, Mr. Ndegwa stated that his leadership would help students of the institution access opportunities.
“We are particularly keen to avail opportunities for students via the development of digital skills or through the various programs we have at Safaricom by Safaricom WIT and Safaricom Engineering Community.
Some of the Safaricom Digital IT teams have already visited the university and look forward to inspiring and guiding the next generation of innovators. With the focus of the university being producing students in the science and technology fields, organizations such as ours stand to benefit from a constant inflow of talent.”
Ndegwa takes over from Dr. James Mwangi who has served as the university’s founding chancellor from 2013 to 2023.
What is the role of a university chancellor?
A university chancellor in Kenya is appointed by the president for public universities and following the charter of the university for private universities.
A chancellor holds office for five years and is eligible for re-appointment for one further term. He or she is the titular head of the university and in the name of the university confers degrees and grants diplomas, certificates, and other awards for the university.
A chancellor may also from time to time give advice considered necessary for the betterment of the institution to the university council, among other duties as stipulated in the university charter.
On the other hand, a vice-chancellor is the academic and administrative head of a university and has the overall responsibility for the direction, organization, administration, and programmes of the university, among other duties as laid out in the charter.
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