Vice Chancellor (Ag) Welcomes First Years in Inspiring Address
The University of Nairobi's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Margaret Hutchinson, addressed the newly admitted First-Year students for the 2025/2026 academic year, on August 21, 2025, at the iconic Taifa Hall. She congratulated them once again on earning a place at Kenya’s premier institution of higher learning.
In her remarks, Prof. Hutchinson emphasised that the Vice Chancellor’s Address is not a mere tradition, but rather an important opportunity to introduce new students to university life formally. She underscored the significance of this moment as the beginning of a journey that will shape their personal growth, academic excellence, and contribution to society.
The Vice Chancellor shared words of wisdom with the students, using the saying: Small foxes ruin the vineyard. She reminded them that destiny is rarely spoiled by one big failure, but more often by the “small compromises” that gradually erode one’s potential. She urged the students to remain steadfast in their values, disciplined in their conduct and focused on their goals.
“You must see yourselves as leaders in the making, as innovators, as peacemakers and as torchbearers of the University of Nairobi,” she said, adding that their holistic growth must also include spiritual development alongside academic and social engagement.
Prof Hutchinson added that university life has its ups and downs and summarised it as very dynamic. She encouraged the students to take advantage of the University’s diverse opportunities in academics, research, sports, culture and innovation, reminding them that their time at the University is both a privilege and a responsibility.
The address was punctuated by warm applause from the students, who expressed excitement about beginning their university journey under the guidance of Kenya’s oldest and most distinguished institution of higher education.
The 2025 First Years have now officially embarked on their journey at the University of Nairobi, a journey of knowledge, transformation, and service to society.
