President William Ruto has appointed James Mwangi, Group Managing Director of Equity Group Holdings PLC, as Chancellor of the Open University of Kenya.
The head of state made the announcement on Thursday, August 3, after awarding a charter to the institution at an event held at the Konza Technopolies in Machakos County.
Mwangi was tasked with spearheading the institution, which will be domiciled at the Konza Technopolis in Makueni County. The career banker was directed to ensure that the university produces some of the best professionals and innovators in the country.
"I'm satisfied that the awarding of a charter to the Open University of Kenya will be of benefit to the advancement of university education in Kenya.
"Now wherefore by this exercise, be it known that by the powers conferred upon me by Section 24 (1) b, of the Universities Act, I here award the charter to the Open University of Kenya," Ruto declared.
The head of state added that the institution will be vital in creating an enabling environment that will broaden university academics in the country, especially through online and distance learning. It will also offer self-study modules, correspondence courses and technology-enabled tutorials.
"This institution is now open for those who wanted to access affordable and convenient academic programmes in the country. See you in class by September 2023," President stated.
President Ruto also thanked everyone who worked tirelessly to ensure the Open University of Kenya became a reality. He noted that the launch of the university demanded significant resources thus the need to push it to its potential.
"We are here to celebrate those who honoured their commitment, and worked hard to develop a programed that will see many people attain academic achievements," Ruto stated.
On his part, Mwangi noted that the Open University of Kenya will embark on infrastructural developments that will ensure it becomes one of the best-performing institutions in the country.
"I am humbled that you have given me the responsibility to provide service for this country on your behalf. Thank you, Sir. You have given me responsibility at a time when my service at the Meru University of Science Technology has just ended. I want to express my gratitude," Mwangi, who also serves as the Group Chief Executive Officer of Equity Group Holdings PLC, added.
Among the major tasks he promised to embark on is establishing OUK as an institution offering quality courses in undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
The Open University of Kenya will soon provide academic services in various fields, including business, management, and Information Technology. Other areas include Education, Agriculture, Health Sciences, Social Sciences and Humanities.
"We will have to harness the benefits of advanced technologies in order for us to succeed in enrollment, learning and provision of other academic services," Mwangi assured.
"The OUK is a great option for Kenyans who want to pursue a university education but cannot afford to attend a traditional university. The OUK's distance and e-learning programs offer flexibility and convenience, and the university's accredited degrees are recognised by employers all over the world," Mwangi assured.
