International students and staff at the University’s Main Catering Unit.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s efforts to champion cultural diversity and inclusion in education have intensified, as was evident during its first ever International Students’ Day celebration, marked on 17th November, 2023. The Celebration, flagged off by Prof. Benedict Alala on behalf of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)-Prof. Charles Mutai, was organized by the Directorate of International Relations and Academic Linkages (DIAL). The colourful event attracted participation from staff, MMUST student leaders, as well as student leaders from other institutions, including the University of Nairobi Students’ Association President, Ms. Monica Malith.
“Today, we acknowledge and appreciate the richness that international students bring to our institution. It is an opportunity for us to engage in conversations that transcend borders, share experiences that bridge continents, and collectively envision a future of academic excellence and cross-cultural understanding,” stated Prof. Alala. He further pointed out that international students are ambassadors of cultural exchange, and urged them to embrace diversity and learn from each other, which he said will not only shape their academic journey, but also their personal growth. Similarly, the Department of Educational Psychology’s Prof. Kennedy Otieno in his remarks encouraged the international students to become better for their countries. “Don’t let your stay in MMUST be in vain, but make sure that you use the knowledge and skills you have acquired here to transform your respective countries,” advised Prof. Otieno.
A section of the participants during the International Students’ Day celebration at MMUST.
The Director DIAL-Dr. Umulkher Ali, said that the University is committed to ensuring an inclusive and equitable environment for all its students. “This is a great day to celebrate and appreciate you for choosing MMUST, and reassure you all of our full support towards your academic journey,” she stated, adding that institutions of higher learning should take pride in their international students.
Speaking during the event, the Director of Corporate Communications and Marketing (DCCM)-Dr. Lydia Anyonje, noted that there is a need to provide international students with more opportunities to showcase their cultural diversity. She added, “As a Directorate, we are cognizant that international students are a very big marketing tool for this University, therefore, we should strive to attract more of them.” Equally, the Marketing Officer-Mr. James Muriithi, stated that there has been a call for the University to increase the number of international students, and that his office is ready to support this cause.
“The Office of the Dean of Students is proud of MMUST’s international students. Our responsibility is to ensure that we make MMUST a home away from home for all students,” said Mr. Oscar Waswa, who was representing the Dean of Students-Dr. Bernadette Abwao. Mr. Waswa encouraged the international students to take part in the University activities, such as sports, entertainment, as well as work study programmes.
University of Nairobi Students’ Association President, Ms. Monica Malith gives her remarks during the International Students’ Day at MMUST.
“The University Administration not only gives us the opportunity to study, but also acts as our parents and guardians,” pointed out Ms. Malith, the first international student to lead the University of Nairobi Students’ Association (UNSA). She echoed that international students should actively take part in University events, including vying for leadership positions.
Mr. Nelman Monari of DIAL, revealed that aside from linking the University with other institutions, the Directorate is also in charge of international students, as well as those on exchange programmes. “MMUST has had students from Nigeria, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Somalia, Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. We have also hosted students on exchange programmes from Zimbabwe, Norway, United States of America, Germany, Finland, Netherlands and Colombia,” said Mr. Monari. According to him, the MMUST students have an International Students’ Guild (ISG), which was founded by Mr. Emeka Marizu.
MMUST international students showcase the Baganda dance.
The highlight of the celebration was entertainment from various countries, which showcased dance, music and cultural wear. By joining the rest of the world in marking this significant day, the University has indeed shown that it values its international students, and that it is dedicated to promoting a culturally diverse and inclusive learning environment.
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
