Kibabii University celebrated a historic milestone on Wednesday, 19th November 2025, as the School of Nursing held its inaugural Commencement, Pinning, and Candle-Lighting Ceremony at the Tourist Hotel, Bungoma. The event marked the first graduation since the establishment of the School in 2021.
The ceremony was presided over by the Dean, School of Nursing, Dr. Morris Senghor, and graced by distinguished guests including the Chief Guest, Ms. Jane Wanyama, Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan Hospital, Kisumu; Prof. Stanley Wafula Ngome, former Deputy Governor of Bungoma County; Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo, Vice-Chancellor; Prof. Julius Maiyo, Prof. Donald Siamba, and Prof. Joshua Ogendo, Principal, KMTC Bungoma, among other notable dignitaries.
In his remarks, Dr. Senghor highlighted the profound symbolism of the day’s rituals. The candle-lighting tradition, he explained, honours Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The pinning ceremony marks the students’ official induction into professional practice, while oath-taking affirms their ethical responsibility and commitment to serving humanity. Describing the journey of guiding the pioneer class, he likened it to a demanding yet deeply fulfilling “birth process,” culminating in the proud celebration of their achievements.
Speaking on behalf of the University Management, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs) Prof. Joshua Ogendo urged the graduands to position themselves as “brand ambassadors of Kibabii University.” He encouraged them to invest in networking, continuous learning, and adaptability, noting that graduation marks the end of the easier phase and the beginning of real-world expectations.
“Use this ceremony as a launching pad into your professional future,” he advised.
In his address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo reflected on the establishment of the School of Nursing as the realization of a long-held institutional dream. He noted that the pioneer cohort had been given “special attention” as trailblazers and encouraged them to continue expanding their competencies to remain globally competitive. The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted the University’s plans through the Centre of Languages to offer German and French courses, thereby enhancing students’ international career mobility.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Guest Ms. Wanyama challenged the graduands to build strong personal brands grounded in professionalism, character, and integrity. She reminded them that nursing is both a science and a deeply human calling.
“A great nurse is not only professionally competent but also emotionally intelligent and empathetic. As nurses, we do not just work together. We carry each other,” she noted.
The ceremony also featured the recognition of the top three performers, who received special awards for excellence. Celebrations concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony, signifying unity, shared accomplishment, and the dawn of a new chapter.
