By Silas Otieno

On June 16, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program hosted the Scholar Council swearing-in ceremony marking the transition of leadership from the 2024/2025 to the newly-elected 2025/2026. Held on campus, the event brought together over 200 participants and was facilitated by Mr. Vincent Juma, Senior Counsellor, Counseling Services and Ms. Jane Nyaga, Clubs Coordinator, Student Affairs and was presided over by Ms. Helen Ambasa, Director of Legal Services. Delivering her inspiring message to the newly sworn in Scholar Council, Ms. Ambasa challenged and encouraged them to lead with purpose and integrity. She pointed out that they have been given the mantle, not only to represent their peers but to be stewards of the values that define the Mastercard Foundation Scholars program.

“This journey will test your patience, your courage and your ability to work together. At the same time, it will also grow you. Use this opportunity to enhance your leadership capacity, character and serve more than you seek by listening to your people,” Ms. Ambasa remarked. “Remember, your peers are watching and you are setting a pace not only for you and your team but for those who will come after you,” she concluded.

Building on this, Dr. Victor Boiyo, Deputy Vice Chancellor - Student Life, congratulated the newly inaugurated Scholar Council and expressed his confidence in their leadership abilities. He reminded them the importance of staying grounded in service while embracing the challenges that come with leadership. “You carry the hopes of your fellow Mastercard Foundation Scholars, use the platform to uplift others, champion concerns of collective good and leave behind systems and structures that will carry forward the vision of the program,” he urged.

Speaking during the event, Dr. George Lumbasi, Chief Admissions Officer, applauded the inducted Scholar Council urging them to embrace servant leadership and serve their peers with clarity of purpose. He added that he trusts the team will carry their roles with excellence and grace that defines the program.

The event concluded with an address from the newly sworn in Scholar Council President, Asafu Mamlaka expressing his gratitude to his fellow Mastercard foundation Scholars, for their trust in him. “I stand here today deeply honored by the trust you have placed on me. I am committed to serve, listen and act,” he said. “I am privileged to be part of a community that believes in leadership that inspire and collaborates. I promise that no one will be left behind and together, let’s build a stronger community we all care about,” he concluded.

In addition to the President, the newly sworn-in Council members include, Rencia Seda, Vice President, Naftali Ayore, Finance Advisor, Jaili Abdalla Kafi, Scholar Support Representative, Goldalyn Kakuya, Inclusion Representative, and Helefti Yalew, Community Engagement Representative.