Every graduation marks the end of one journey and the beginning of another. For the 2,906 graduates who crossed the stage during KCA University’s 20th Graduation Ceremony, it was a celebration of achievement and a powerful reminder that learning extends far beyond the classroom.
Held under the theme “Learn! Lead! Transform!”, the ceremony brought together graduates, families, faculty, industry leaders and international partners to celebrate academic excellence while reaffirming the University’s commitment to developing graduates equipped to lead with integrity, innovate boldly and create meaningful impact in society.
The graduation also advanced KCA University’s internationalisation agenda with the official commissioning of the KCA University Korean Language Centre, established in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. Officially commissioned by H.E. Kang Hyung-shik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya, the Centre will equip students with Korean language proficiency and cultural competence while expanding opportunities for academic exchange, scholarships, collaborative research and career development with Korean institutions and multinational organisations. The initiative reflects KCA University’s continued commitment to broadening global learning opportunities and preparing graduates for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
Addressing the congregation, Vice-Chancellor and CEO Prof. Isaiah I. C. Wakindiki described graduation as the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, leadership and service, urging graduates to embrace every opportunity to grow, adapt and contribute meaningfully to society.
“As a soil scientist, I see education much like preparing fertile ground. KCA University has enriched your minds and anchored your roots. Now go out and become the harvest that transforms communities through innovation, integrity and lifelong learning.”
Prof. Wakindiki noted that KCA University continues to expand opportunities in research, entrepreneurship, commercialisation and international collaboration to ensure its graduates remain responsive to the demands of an increasingly dynamic world. He cited the University’s recognition as a Qualification Awarding Body (QAB) by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority as further affirmation of KCA University’s commitment to academic quality and excellence.
Reflecting on the changing demands of the global workforce, he encouraged graduates to become lifelong learners, ethical leaders and problem-solvers who create value within their professions and communities while remaining adaptable in a rapidly evolving world.
KCA University Chancellor FCPA Dr. Martin Oduor-Otieno, CBS challenged the graduating class to define success not by the jobs they secure but by the difference they make in the lives of others. He encouraged them to pursue careers anchored in purpose, resilience and service while embracing innovation as a catalyst for positive change.
“Do not be content with merely securing a job. Go out and transform your workplaces. Create opportunities for others. Solve real problems through innovation and let purpose, not comfort, guide your career. That is how you build a legacy of lasting impact.”
The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Kang Hyung-shik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya, who commended KCA University for strengthening international collaboration through education and reaffirmed the Republic of Korea’s commitment to partnerships that foster learning, innovation and cultural exchange.
“Learn, because the world will never stop changing. Lead, because your communities are waiting for your voice. Transform, because the future belongs to those who have the courage to build it.”
The ceremony celebrated graduates from diverse disciplines who are now poised to make meaningful contributions across the public and private sectors. The Class of July 2026 comprised 842 graduates from the School of Business, 546 from the School of Technology, 420 from the School of Education, Arts and Social Sciences, and 1,098 from the Professional and Technical Training Institute. Together, they represent a new generation of professionals prepared to contribute across business, technology, education, entrepreneurship, research and public service.
Beyond celebrating academic achievement, the University also recognised outstanding student accomplishments in research, innovation and commercialisation. Among those honoured was student innovator Maria Charlene, whose patented biodegradable diaper demonstrates how research can be translated into practical solutions that address pressing environmental and societal challenges. Her achievement reflects KCA University’s commitment to nurturing graduates whose ideas create tangible impact beyond the classroom.
As KCA University celebrated its 20th graduation milestone, the ceremony reflected the University’s enduring commitment to developing graduates who combine knowledge with purpose, leadership with integrity and innovation with service. It also highlighted the strength of partnerships that continue to enrich learning, expand global opportunities and position graduates to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
For the Class of July 2026, graduation is more than the culmination of years of study—it is the beginning of new opportunities to shape industries, strengthen communities and create meaningful change. Guided by the enduring call to Learn. Lead. Transform., these graduates now join a growing network of KCA University alumni whose leadership and contributions continue to make a lasting impact in Kenya, across Africa and beyond.
