CUEA: The World Needs Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Says Prof. Mbugua

Catholic University of Eastern Africa-CUEA has deep roots built on strong foundations of the Catholic Church and is under two authorities – the Holy See and Government of Kenya, says the University Chancellor Rt. Rev. Charles Kasonde, Chairman of AMECEA and Bishop of Solwezi, Zambia. It is in this setting that the institution thrives to inculcate values which include prayerfulness, truthfulness, honesty, excellence, commitment and competence.

Speaking during the 38^th graduation ceremony at the University’s main campus in Langata, Nairobi, Bishop Kasonde observed that thousands of professionals, political leaders, government technocrats and Church leaders have graduated from CUEA.

Rev. Prof. Stephen Mbugua, CUEA Vice Chancellor observed that in today’s contemporary society, some young adults are committing suicide because of fear of rejection and shame while others are partaking in criminal activities. This, Prof. Mbugua said, is an indicator of a decay in the moral fabric of the society, hence the need for institutions such as CUEA, which capitalizes not only on academic excellence but holistic human formation.

Prof Mbugua therefore urged the graduating students to be champions of values which he said does not necessarily mean being perfect or placing oneself in a cocoon of uprightness but self acceptance.

“Being a graduate who champions values means to be a professional who is innovative, research driven and ready to lead the continent into the unknown realms of discovery with societal values that protect you,” the vice chancellor explained.

The theme of this year’s graduation, CUEA’s 38^th convocation, was “Research and innovation for quality higher education: Building the Africa that we want”.

To that effect, Bishop Kasonde pointed out that Africa has taken a lead in communication and electronic banking.

“In Kenya, for instance, Mpesa has revolutionized banking services in the country, and when national examination results are released, one can know the results of their loved ones by a click of a button on the phone. All these are emanating from extensive research and innovation that have been championed by people just like you,” he told the graduands and challenged them to be innovators and become leaders in their professions.

Speaking at the same ceremony, the Chairman of CUEA Council Rt. Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba the Bishop of Nakuru Diocese, Kenya said that the graduating class of 2019 holds a special place in all CUEA stakeholders because it the institution at a time of its transformation.

“The purpose of this was to make CUEA more responsive to the growing needs of society and of the Church in a sustainable way. With this, CUEA is a star in Education which continues to shine. I am glad to announce that we have hit the home stretch of that transformation and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa will continue to be one of the best Universities in Kenya and in the AMECEA region,” Bishop Muhatia said.

He informed the graduands that in these days, Africa is full of promises and is yearning for innovation and renaissance in technology, business, science, and health.

“We need a cultural reawakening inspired by moral and upright leadership. This is the environment that awaits you as you utilize the skills which you have acquired in the last two, three and four years of study.”

Additionally, he reminded the graduands that the skills and moral guidance they have acquired are tools to help them fulfil their calling and vocation in life.

“The world out there may be unpredictable and appear unforgiving; but ladies and gentlemen you have what it takes to make this world work for you. It is for such a moment that CUEA has been preparing you. Always remember to put God first. During your stay in CUEA, we have helped mould you into responsible persons by inculcating essential Christian values into your lives. These values give you a universal moral understanding; they give you a Catholic identity.”

A total of 2186 students graduated with 31 of them being awarded doctorates. The remaining received Diplomas and Certificates in various fields. The Chief Guest at the event was Sr. Mary Persico, President of Marywood University USA.

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By Pamela Adinda, AMECEA Online News