KCA University has graduated more than 2,900 students at its 20th graduation ceremony, marking two decades of growth while strengthening its international links with the launch of a Korean Language Centre.
The ceremony, held at the university’s main campus in Ruaraka, Nairobi, on July 3, was presided over by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya, Kang Hyung-shik.
Held under the theme “Learn! Lead! Transform!”, the ceremony brought together university officials, diplomats, industry leaders, parents and graduands to celebrate the institution’s growth from a specialised accountancy college into a multidisciplinary university offering programmes across various fields.
Chancellor Martin Oduor-Otieno said the milestone reflected the institution’s contribution to Kenya’s higher education sector over the past two decades.
“We take pride in acknowledging the immense growth this institution has had over the years,” he said. “When you mark 10 years, 20 years, that remains a milestone in the history of this university. It goes to show how much the institution has contributed to the progress of the education sector in the country.”
Vice-Chancellor Isaiah Wakindiki challenged the graduates to uphold integrity, embrace leadership and use their qualifications to create employment opportunities.
“Lead with integrity, and make a tremendous transformation by turning setbacks into milestones,” he said.
“Education is not only for employment; it equips one with skills and empowers students not only to seek employment, but to create it for others as well.”
The graduating class comprised students from master’s, undergraduate and diploma programmes, alongside recipients of professional certificates. The university also recognised outstanding students for their academic performance, leadership and creativity.
The launch of the Korean Language Centre was a key highlight of the ceremony, with the university seeking to equip students with language skills that could open doors to scholarships, academic exchanges and employment opportunities in South Korea.
Ambassador Kang said the initiative would strengthen relations between the two countries while expanding opportunities for Kenyan students.
“The setting up of the Korean Language Centre at KCA University is one of the key steps that will contribute to the strengthening of diplomatic ties between Kenya and the Republic of Korea,” he said.
“This initiative will help in expanding opportunities for Kenyan students in the global market.”
Kenya and South Korea established diplomatic relations in 1964, with cooperation subsequently expanding into trade, technology, defence, environmental affairs and education.
The new centre is expected to provide a platform for language learning and cultural exchange as interest in South Korea continues to grow, particularly in technology, manufacturing and popular culture.
University officials said the initiative could also support future scholarship and exchange programmes as the centre develops.
The graduation comes as Kenya continues to grapple with youth unemployment, placing renewed emphasis on equipping graduates with practical skills, entrepreneurial capacity and the ability to compete in an increasingly globalised labour market.
The university urged the graduates to apply their knowledge to the development of their communities and the wider economy, both in Kenya and abroad.
Vice chancellor, Kenya College of Accountancy University
