Kisii: Kisii University students have been encouraged to focus on their studies and approach university life with academic discipline and responsibility. Speaking to more than 9,000 first-year students during the orientation week at the institution on the outskirts of Kisii town, the University’s Vice Chancellor Prof. Nathan Ogechi challenged the students to work hard and maintain healthy relationships with lecturers and fellow students so that they can achieve their educational goals.
According to Kenya News Agency, Prof. Ogechi urged the students to seek assistance from the lecturers, university staff, and the Student Council whenever they encounter academic, administrative, or welfare challenges. Kisii University has about 350 teaching staff and 300 non-teaching staff who provide academic, administrative, and support services to the growing student population.
The Vice Chancellor also advised the students to observe the university’s regulations and avoid actions that could disrupt their studies, such as promiscuity, which could lead to unnecessary pregnancies. He emphasized that university education extends beyond classroom work and encouraged the students to participate in co-curricular activities.
Prof. Ogechi pointed out that engaging in sports, cultural activities, leadership, and other programs will aid students in developing teamwork, communication, and leadership skills alongside their academic qualifications. Additionally, he mentioned that the university hosts the Research Chair in Language Education and urged students to utilize the scholarship opportunities under the research program to address gaps in education.
He further stated that the government is constructing a 1600-capacity student hostel to accommodate more students within the institution. The VC assured the students of adequate security during their stay, emphasizing that security is a priority as some first-year students are still minors.
Prof. Ogechi also encouraged the new students to express their views freely and participate in debates, provided they adhere to the law and university regulations. The 2026 intake coincides with Kisii University’s 14th anniversary since receiving its university charter in February 2013. The institution has since expanded its academic programs and student population, evolving from its origins as a teachers’ training institution into a multidisciplinary public university.
The arrival of more than 9,000 first-year students contributes to this growth while placing increased demands on the university’s teaching, accommodation, welfare, security, and other support systems.
