By Dr. Nathan Gitonga, UEAB Media. | Sunday 13th August, 2023
Baraton, Kenya – The University of Eastern Africa, Baraton (UEAB) marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its 41st graduation ceremony on Sunday, 13th August, 2023. The esteemed event, officially known as the commencement exercise, was graced by the honorable presence of H.E Hon. Rigathi Gachagua, the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, who not only served as the guest of honor but also delivered the keynote address.
As the sun began to rise, parents, friends, and family of the graduating class gathered in anticipation at the university grounds. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as the graduates and faculty lined up in preparation for the procession. By approximately 9:30 am, a helicopter carrying the Deputy President touched down on the university campus, heralding the beginning of a momentous day. The Deputy President was warmly welcomed by the university’s Chancellor, Dr. Blasious Ruguri, who is also the President of the East & Central Africa Division of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church (ECD).
Kicking off the day’s engagements, H.E Rigathi Gachagua planted a commemorative tree, symbolizing growth and progress, before proceeding to inscribe his name in the university’s visitor book. Following this, he was officially attired in the ceremonial regalia worn by graduates. The graduation venue was then graced by the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Phillip Maiyo, who extended a warm welcome to all guests, including the esteemed Deputy President.
During his Vice Chancellor’s report, Prof. Maiyo highlighted a myriad of developmental milestones and achievements that UEAB had accomplished in the preceding academic year. He also proudly acknowledged the names of faculty members who had received promotions and other accolades during this time. Following Prof. Maiyo’s address, Nandi County Governor H.E Hon. Stephen Sang took the podium to address the audience and welcome the Deputy President for his speech. In his remarks, Governor Sang praised UEAB for its role in providing quality education in Kenya and emphasized the strong partnership between the university and the County government of Nandi. He particularly commended UEAB for its contribution to the county’s healthcare system, noting that a significant number of employed nurses were graduates of the institution.
With anticipation filling the air, Deputy President Gachagua took center stage to address the 2023 graduating class. Congratulating the graduates on their remarkable achievement, he acknowledged the challenges they had overcome and encouraged them to embrace the forthcoming journey with determination and resilience. He shared inspiring anecdotes, including the story of Kenyan President H.E Dr. William Ruto, who rose from humble beginnings to lead the nation. Deputy President Gachagua expressed his support for the university’s development and extended an invitation to the Vice Chancellor and council members to collaborate with the government in enhancing the institution’s growth.
The ceremony also saw the presence of several prominent church leaders from ECD, including Dr. Samuel Misiani, President of the Western Kenya Union Conference, and Dr. Samwel Makori, President of the East Kenya Union Conference, among others. Government officials, members of parliament, and representatives from Nandi County Assembly were also in attendance. Distinguished political figures included Uasin Gishu County Senator Hon. Jackson Mandago, Nandi County Senator Hon. Samson Cherargei, and Hon. Paul Biego, the local Member of Parliament.
A total of 897 graduates proudly crossed the stage to receive their well-earned degrees, diplomas, and certificates, marking the culmination of their academic journeys at UEAB. The event was a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to producing graduates poised to make meaningful contributions to society.
The 41st graduation ceremony of the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton will undoubtedly be remembered as a day of celebration, inspiration, and shared aspirations as the next generation of leaders steps forward into a promising future.
