Machakos University Ushers in First-Year Students with a Week of Admission and Orientation
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Machakos University marked another exciting milestone as new students embarked on their 2025 Admission and Orientation Week, held from 26th to 31st August 2025. The week-long programme introduced first-year students to University life through insightful sessions, inspirational addresses, and community-building activities.
Admission and Early Orientation
The week began with admission and registration of first-year students. On the second day, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Student Affairs (DVC-ASA), Prof. James Muola, officially opened the orientation programme. He warmly welcomed the students, encouraging them to embrace responsibility and independence, while informing them of the highly anticipated Vice-Chancellor’s Session.
Also addressing the students was DVC Administration, Planning and Finance (APF), Prof. CPA Florence Memba, who emphasized discipline, adherence to rules, and academic excellence. Registrar-ASA, Mr. Patrick Okemba, guided students on critical matters such as university student regulations, student finance, fee statements, programme changes, and unit registration. Registrar-AP, Dr. Humphrey Omondi, urged students to get involved in university events, join clubs and societies, and reminded them that growth extends beyond the classroom.
The Ag. Chief Finance Officer, CPA Francis Wambua, explained the various modes of fee payment and advised students to confirm their semester registration through the student portal. Students also interacted with their Deans of Schools, Chairs of Departments, and the Director of TVET Studies, who outlined expectations for their academic journey.
On the third day, Directors and Heads of Departments, including ICT, Corporate Affairs & PR, and the Library, provided further guidance on operations in their respective dockets. The fourth day, spearheaded by the Dean of Students, enabled students to meet section heads from the Career Office, Counselling Office, Games and Sports, Insurance, and the Student Association of Machakos University (SAMU). These offices introduced their services to help students fully integrate into the University community.
The Vice-Chancellor’s Session: A Defining Moment in the 2025 Orientation programme
A key highlight of the week was the Vice-Chancellor’s Session, where students took the oath of matriculation before hearing from Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joyce Agalo. She extended a warm welcome, celebrating their outstanding academic achievement and their decision to join Machakos University.
Prof. Agalo inspired the new students to live by the University’s code of conduct, embrace integrity, and pursue excellence from their first year. She highlighted opportunities such as the Innovation Fund, the Chancellor’s Scholarship, and the University’s strong culture of alumni excellence. She further challenged students to guard their academic integrity, make sound decisions, and protect their destinies.
Quoting her memorable words, she declared:
“Machakos is our first name, Excellence is our second name—and we must live by that. I see future leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and scholars in you. This is the best place to be. Welcome to Excellence, welcome to your home away from home.”
To crown the day, students enjoyed the Vice-Chancellor’s Welcome Meal, followed by motivational talks from invited speakers. The celebrations continued with a Welcome Party hosted by PPP TV, giving students an opportunity to relax, connect, and celebrate their new beginning.
Orientation Sunday: A spirit-filled Non-Denominational Service at Machakos University
The Orientation Week concluded with a vibrant Non-Denominational Service, bringing together the University community in thanksgiving, praise, and worship.
The service featured powerful praise and worship led by Sharon Ishavuka, a renowned Kenyan gospel recording artist, alongside presentations from the Christian Union (CU), Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Fellowship, and Catholic Action.
The sermon, delivered by Rev. Dr. Humphrey Omondi on the theme “My Identity, My Self-Worth,” encouraged students to ground themselves in faith, integrity, and discipline as they embark on their academic journey.
In her address, Prof. Joyce Agalo once again welcomed the first-year students, celebrating their success and urging them to pursue holistic growth guided by the University’s Core Values. The Dean of Students also reinforced the importance of student welfare and balanced development.
The service was a moment of reflection, fellowship, and spiritual nourishment—reminding students that Machakos University is not only a place of academic excellence but also a home that embraces diversity, wellness, and holistic growth.