Tharaka University brought its Cultural Week to a colourful close with a grand finale celebrating Kenya’s diverse communities, student talent, leadership and shared national identity.
The event recognised the outstanding performances of seven communities selected from 18 that performed during Day Four of the Cultural Week.
The ceremony opened with the singing of the National Anthem, followed by East African anthems, setting a patriotic and regional tone for the day.
Dr. James Nyamu, Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration and Planning, led the opening prayer.
The Dean of Students, Dr. Shadrack Munanu, welcomed all students, staff and guests to the special occasion. He then introduced presentations by the seven winning communities: Borana, Kamba, Maasai, Samburu, Luhya, Tharaka and Pokot.
Dr. Munanu appreciated the students for their energetic and well-prepared performances.
He emphasised that all presentations were excellent and that no community was better than another, reinforcing the University’s message of unity in diversity.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic, Research and Student Affairs (ARSA), Prof. Veronica Nyaga, reiterated Tharaka University’s strong cultural identity and challenged the University community to remain the best saying, “We should be the best in culture, which is being the best.”
Prof. Nyaga called on students and staff to embrace peace, noting that unity and peaceful coexistence are essential in keeping Tharaka University together as a leading institution.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peter K. Muriungi, said Tharaka University excels not only in academics but also in culture and togetherness. Quoting Marcus Garvey, he reminded the audience that “a people without the knowledge of their past, history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.”
Prof. Muriungi noted that the University has grown significantly and now brings together students from many cultural backgrounds, unlike in its early years.
He praised the institution for its timelessness, integrity and teamwork, and shared the vision of attracting international students in future as Tharaka University continues to expand its global outlook.
Mr. Jacob Ouma Oluoch Muganda, the Regional Commissioner for the Eastern Region and Administrative Police Commander, was the chief guest during the closing ceremony.
Mr. Muganda commended the University for promoting and preserving culture, describing it as a positive action that strengthens identity and community values.
He noted that Kenyans remain one people regardless of their ethnic backgrounds or places of origin.
He underscored the moral lessons embedded in culture, including respect, discipline and good character.
Mr. Muganda also cautioned students against drug and substance abuse, urging them to make responsible choices.
He urged young people not to be drawn into violence linked to politics. He urged the students to focus on education, personal growth and national cohesion.
During the awards, the Luhya community took the third position, the Borana community second, and the Maasai community emerging as the overall winner. Outstanding individuals and teams in different categories were also recognised, including sports.
The celebrations also featured the crowning of Mr. and Miss Tharaka University, as well as Mr. Flex and Miss Curvy Tharaka University, all crowned by the Vice-Chancellor.
The Vice-Chancellor was later honoured by the Shine Project team, including Ms. Maureen Ndagara, Director of Career Services, Prof. Nyaga, among others.
