Women Scholars Shine at Chuka University’s 14th Graduation

Mercy Rehema Katana who was the best overall student of the year. PHOTO/Chuka University

By Blaise Gitonga

Chuka University’s 14th Graduation Ceremony was marked by a historic milestone as women scholars dominated the academic honors, earning the majority of degrees, diplomas, and certificates conferred. The event showcased the institution’s highest graduating class since its inception, with 4,380 graduates.

The breakdown included:

- Doctorate Degrees: 32

- Master’s Degrees: 178

- Bachelor’s Degrees: 3,467

- Diplomas: 286

- Certificates: 213

- Postgraduate Diplomas: 204

Of the 32 doctorate recipients, only nine were men, underscoring the strong presence of women in advanced scholarship.

Doctoral Achievements Across Faculties

- Agriculture: Kihoro David Mwangi, Tore Nelson Kipngetich, and Orwa Joy Debora Atieno.

- Business: Akenga Grace Melissa and Olang Margaret Akinyi.

- Education & Resources Development: Boera Enidy Chris, Murungi Leah Ntinyari, Mohamed Mahat Ali, and Maluni Benedict Mutina.

- Humanities & Social Sciences: 15 candidates, the largest cohort, including Mutegi Anita Mwende, Mutunga Carolyne Ndunge, Mwenga Miriam Ngina, Manyara Ruth Nkatha, Marangu Pamela Gacheru, Ndungu Sophia Wangui, Mutunga Bernadine Mbula, Mosoti Dennis, Njiru Dickson Gitonga, Sigu Pavel Okoth, Mwendwa John Mugambi, Mitambo Evangeline Makena, Kathomi Jane, Kirimo Elsie Njeri, and Wambugu Rose Waithira.

- Science & Technology: Rwanda Alex Mutegi, Gacheri Rael, and Mbae Jane Kathure.

- Nursing: Kiraki Monica Wambui, Mbisi Annastacia Munzi, Mbae Doreen Kawira, Murithi David, and Silas Purity Mwari.

Scholarships and Awards

Equity Bank honored Mercy Rehema Katana as the Best Overall Student of the Year. Katana, who achieved an average of 79% in her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science and Technology, expressed gratitude, saying:

“Being named the best overall student is a great honor. It proves that showing up every day pays off. Chuka University taught us perseverance, resilience, and that excellence is built day by day.”

Equity also recognized John Tingoi, who placed third globally in the 2025 International Quant Championship (IQC), outperforming over 80,000 participants from 142 countries.

Additionally, 10 students, where only two were men secured Master’s scholarships for outstanding performance in their faculties, including Katana (Science & Technology), Victory Kiprop Limo (Nursing & Public Health), Vivian Kwamboka (Humanities & Social Sciences), Faith Mumbua Kioko (Agriculture), Yvonne Muthiani (Engineering), Pauline Nduku (Education), Sylvia Mwende Kinyua (Environmental Studies), Dorcas Nyamanga (Business), and Kelvin Kangethe Kamau (Law). These scholars will be inscribed in the Vice Chancellor’s Roll of Honor.

Commendations and Institutional Growth

Chief Guest Dr. Caroline Hunja, representing PS Beatrice Inyangala, praised Chuka University as one of Kenya’s fastest-growing institutions, ranked third nationally for international student enrollment.

“The State Department for Higher Education conducted a monitoring and evaluation exercise across all universities in Kenya. Chuka University emerged with one of the highest numbers of international students, ranking third nationally. Chuka is now competing with academic giants,” she said.

Council Chairman Prof. David Serem highlighted the university’s undergraduate completion rate of 89%, surpassing the government’s 80% target. Master’s and doctorate programs achieved a 66% completion rate, exceeding the 58% benchmark.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Henry Mutembei announced that academic staff had attracted KSh 380 million in research grants, cementing Chuka’s reputation in academia and innovation. The university currently hosts 20,742 undergraduates and 7,000 postgraduates.

"We have continued to support the government in the implementation of the new funding model which is continuously being improved", he added.

Alumni Support

Alumni representative Mr. James Wainaina noted that graduates invested over KSh 1 million in scholarships and welfare support during 2025, including bursaries and food assistance for needy students. He urged new graduates to join alumni chapters to access mentorship and networking opportunities.