By Andanje Wakhungu
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), in partnership with the Mbele Leadership Foundation from the United States, an organisation pioneering African-centred student leadership development, has launched a new learning centre at the institution. The centre aims to equip learners in the region with knowledge, empowering a new generation of African leaders with strong leadership skills.
Addressing the media after the centre’s commissioning, Bishop Jawwaad Love and Dr Tami Love from the Mbele Leadership Foundation congratulated MMUST for securing the launch, noting that numerous universities had submitted requests to host the hub.
“It’s a blessing for this university to be part of this inaugural launch. I feel like you are our extended family, and I am confident you’ll become an institution to be admired,” said Bishop Jawwaad Love, sentiments echoed by Dr Tami Love.
The leaders stressed that the global education landscape is evolving, and many countries’ education systems are lagging behind. “We can revolutionise this education so that it truly becomes education. We can’t remain stuck in one system for years,” they explained.
The presence of the centre at MMUST will provide a significant advantage, with eight classrooms to be housed within the facility. Speaking on behalf of University Chair Dr Pamela Sitienei, who was away on an official state visit, University Council representative George Lutomia thanked the Mbele Leadership Foundation, particularly Bishop Jawwaad Love and Dr Tami Love, for their support. He described the initiative as one that will advance the university’s interests, as outlined in its Strategic Plan.
“The establishment of the centre will support the implementation of key university policies regarding academic matters, research, capacity building, and governance. The space allocated for it aligns with the Master Plan and supports the council’s objectives. As a council, we are accountable to the university’s stakeholders for its effective leadership,” Dr Lutomia stated.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Solomon Shibairo, similarly expressed his gratitude to the Mbele Leadership Foundation for choosing MMUST to host the centre, which he said is poised to have a substantial impact.
“I am truly honoured to have you join us on this special occasion as we launch the Mbele Centre for African Leadership—a facility dedicated to developing, empowering, and connecting emerging leaders across the African continent and beyond,” he said.
In addition to praising the efforts of university dignitaries, including Professor Willis Otuya, whose contributions have significantly raised the facility’s profile, the Vice-Chancellor noted that the centre is clear evidence of a collective commitment to fostering good leadership and management, thereby supporting institutional development across the country.
“As I mentioned, the programme will ensure that our graduates possess global awareness, can build networks, and secure international opportunities. As a university, we are proud to have the first cohort of students graduating at the same time as we launch this centre,” explained Professor Shibairo.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Centre for African Leadership Project was attended by Dr Titus Mokursi, the East Africa Director of the Mbele Leadership Foundation, who added that the academic centre will shape the future of the intercontinental community.
“Through innovation, collaboration, and dedication, we can build a better tomorrow. What begins here today will not only transform the landscape but also lay the foundation for progress, opportunity, and the growth of African leaders for this generation and those to come,” concluded the East African Director.
