Tharaka University Vice Chancellor/CEO Prof. Peter K. Muriungi led students and staff in a public lecture on Life Skills and Entrepreneurship delivered by keynote speaker Dr. David Langat, EBS, Chairman and Founder of DL Group of Companies.
In his address, Prof. Muriungi congratulated fourth year students and challenged them to critically reflect on what they plan to do with their lives after graduation. He emphasized that this is the stage where mentorship becomes crucial, noting that proper guidance from those who have already walked the path can help shape successful careers and purposeful futures and that was why the university is at the forefront organizing such mentorship programs.
The Vice Chancellor urged students to take responsibility for their future by approaching mentors with humility, while remaining disciplined and hardworking, adding that nobody mentors lazy people. He also highlighted the University’s strategic interest in mining, revealing that plans are underway for copper mining and processing at Kathangacini, as well as the establishment of an economic zone at the University.
Prof. Muriungi further appealed to Dr. Langat to support the realization of the two initiatives and to create more opportunities for Tharaka University students through attachment, internship and employment opportunities. In response, Dr. Langat pledged to offer employment opportunities to four students in the area of agriculture as well as partnering with the university in various fields.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Langat inspired the audience by sharing his journey from humble beginnings, where he started by selling eggs at home, to his first job at the Kenya Ports Authority where he earned Ksh 700. He later pursued a diploma in clearing and forwarding, ventured into vehicle sales, and steadily grew his business in clearing and forwarding before diversifying into oil, shipping and real estate.
He encouraged students to be courageous and willing to take risks in business, stressing that success often comes through resilience and bold decision-making. Dr. Langat also shared some of the setbacks he encountered along the way, including being captured by pirates in Somalia where he had to part with 200 dollars, and a 1997 political bid that left him bankrupt.
Drawing from his entrepreneurial journey, Dr. Langat advised aspiring entrepreneurs to set clear goals, monitor their businesses consistently, remain committed, take calculated risks, stay disciplined, build strong brands, plan their companies well, and ensure proper contracts with employees. He reminded students that the world is full of opportunities for those willing to pursue business with determination and vision.
Present during the lecture were Prof. Veronica Nyaga, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic, Research and Student Affairs); Dr. Edward P.G. Kathuni, Registrar (Administration and Planning); Dr. Daniel Mwangi, Registrar, Academic Affairs; Deans of Faculties; Chairpersons of Departments; members of staff; and students.
The public lecture provided a powerful platform for students and staff to gain practical lessons on life skills, entrepreneurship and resilience, while reaffirming Tharaka University’s commitment to preparing graduates for success beyond the classroom.
