Rev. Prof. Willis Otuya gives a sermon during the MMUST thanksgiving and prayer day 2023.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology on 22 December, 2023, held an annual thanksgiving and prayer day for its staff in a bid to boost morale and optimize productivity. The event, which took place at the Main Catering Unit (MCU), was organized by the Division of Administration and Finance, and steered by the University Chaplaincy. It was attended by staff of all cadres, as well as the top management led by the Vice Chancellor-. The occasion was also an opportunity for staff to eat and commune together.
Prof. Shibairo in his remarks thanked staff for a job well done, adding that MMUST is determined to digitize all its processes and improve on time management. “We must have a culture change. Next year’s theme will be Time Management. This will ensure effective performance by all staff in various cadres,” said the Vice Chancellor.
Vice Chancellor-Prof. Solomon Shibairo gives his remarks.
“The University is focused on staff development and welfare. Already, most part time claims have been duly processed and paid as required. Capacity building has been done for KUDHEIHA staff and KUSU staff will be next. This is in addition to the promotions and interviews done for staff at various levels,” said the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance)-Prof. John Kuria Thuo. Further, he appreciated staff for being committed to their work, which he said is crucial to optimizing productivity.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance)-Prof. John Kuria Thuo during the event.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)-Prof. Hussein Golicha, urged staff to maintain peace and harmony during the upcoming holiday season. He thanked staff for supporting the academic Division, which is the core of the University. Similarly, Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda, who was representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)-Prof. Charles Mutai, pointed out that it is important for staff to turn any challenges they encounter into opportunities. “Let us build a legacy of excellence,” she stated.
The Registrar Administration-Dr. Eglay Tsuma, reiterated that in order to upscale productivity, all staff, including Management, must let go of habits that no longer serve the goals of the institution. The sermon of the day, delivered by Rev. Prof. Willis Otuya, echoed the Registrar’s sentiments of unity of purpose in contributing to the attainment of the University’s goals and objectives. “Let us have unity of purpose and practise collective responsibility where our University is concerned. This will ensure that we help each other rise,” said Rev. Prof. Otuya.
Registrar Administration-Dr. Eglay Tsuma addresses staff.
The Reverend took the opportunity to recognize Prof. Thomas Sakwa, who has been the Registrar Academic Affairs and has recently been appointed as the Deputy Principal at Mama Ngina University College, a constituent college of Kenyatta University located in Gatundu, Kiambu County. “I will continue working with and supporting MMUST from wherever I will be. I am grateful for having worked at MMUST,” Prof. Sakwa said.
The Union leaders who spoke at the event, commended the University for stability in payment of salaries, as well as successful CBA negotiations and internal promotion of staff. The leaders were; Prof. Samuel Kubasu Kwashe (Trustee UASU), Dr. Jairus Odawa (Chairperson UASU), Mr. Gregory Lidzanga (Secretary General KUSU), Mr. Festo Ombaka (Ag. Chairperson KUSU) and Mr. Victor Amasese (Secretary General KUDHEIHA).
A section of MMUST staff during the event.
Undoubtedly, such events not only boost staff morale, but also cultivate work ethics and a culture change that can enable optimization of productivity for the institution. It is a good start to the festivities that accompany the Christmas holiday season.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Wangari Wambugu
