By Murugi Ndwiga
The University of Embu has credited the government’s new student funding model for driving record enrollment and easing the financial burden on learners, as the institution marked its 10th graduation ceremony on Friday, September 12, 2025.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Daniel Mugendi announced that the university admitted 4,292 first-year students this academic year, raising its population to 16,406 from 14,534 last year. He said most students had expressed gratitude for the new model, which has made higher education more accessible.
“This milestone demonstrates the steady growth of our university,” Prof. Mugendi said.
A total of 2,055 graduands were conferred with degrees and awarded diplomas and certificates during the ceremony, the highest in the university’s history. They included 1,915 bachelor’s degrees, 39 master’s, 7 PhDs, 2 postgraduate diplomas, and 92 diplomas and certificates. The School of Education and Social Sciences produced the highest number of graduands, with 971.
Chancellor Prof. Paul Musili Wambua lauded the reforms spearheaded by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba and Principal Secretary Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, describing them as a “game changer.”
“These reforms have brought about transformative change in how our higher learning institutions operate. We are especially grateful for the government’s steadfast support, which has unlocked opportunities for thousands of students who would otherwise have been left behind,” Prof. Wambua said.
The government allocated KSh 702 billion to the education sector in the current financial year, with KSh 85 billion already disbursed to students through loans, scholarships and capitation. More than 180,000 students have been placed in universities under the new model, paying between KSh 5,814 and KSh 75,000 annually.
Principal Secretary Dr. Inyangala praised the University of Embu for prudent management and diversification of funding streams, which she said demonstrated integrity and accountability. She also urged the institution to enhance its global competitiveness through staff exchanges, collaborative research and international partnerships.
The graduation, themed “Celebrating a Decade of Excellence, Transforming Lives and Shaping Futures,” was graced by Italian Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Dr. Roberto Natali, who challenged graduands to embrace innovation and leadership rather than wait for government jobs.
“The knowledge and skills you have gained here will help you to navigate the world with competency and honesty. Be the flames and role models of others in society,” Dr. Natali told the graduates.
To mark the occasion, the university announced 25 postgraduate scholarships and waived application fees for all 2025 graduands seeking to further their studies. Prof. Mugendi said the scholarships are aimed at rewarding talent, promoting research and easing financial barriers to advanced education.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, members of the University Council and Senate, county leaders, parents and guardians.