Kenyatta University reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to sports excellence and student development during a vibrant flag-off ceremony for students participating in the 7th Afro Varsity 3x3 Basketball Championship and the 2nd FASU Badminton Showdown. The event, held on campus, was presided over by Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul K. Wainaina, and served as a formal send-off for the university's representatives heading to Kampala, Uganda.
The ceremony showcased KU’s strategic vision of nurturing holistic student growth through academic rigor and athletic achievement. Participation in such continental events reflects the University’s strong investment in talent development, wellness, and its ambition to be a leading hub of sporting excellence across Africa.
Organized by the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU), the All-African University Games are a prestigious platform that brings together the continent’s top university athletes, making Kenyatta University’s involvement both an honor and an opportunity to shine on the regional stage.
The event began with a solemn invocation from Rev. Esther Wainaina, setting a tone of reflection and optimism. Dr. Daniel Njenga, Ag. Director of Sports and Games, then addressed the gathering, updating the Vice Chancellor on recent departmental milestones and thanking him for his unwavering support. Notably, he announced that four KU students would also represent Kenya in an international water rafting competition in Slovenia, yet another testament to the university’s broad sporting impact.
Representing the student body, Patience Perpetua delivered a heartfelt speech expressing gratitude to the University leadership. She lauded Prof. Wainaina’s instrumental role in facilitating the teams’ preparations, and emphasized the students’ pride in representing both Kenyatta University and the nation at large.
Prof. James Kung’u, Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), commended the Vice Chancellor for his consistent backing of sports and emphasized the critical balance between academic pursuits and extracurricular engagement. He urged the athletes to perform with excellence and integrity, reminding them that they carry the aspirations of the university and the country.
In his keynote address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul K. Wainaina expressed deep appreciation for the students’ dedication and perseverance. He proudly noted that Kenyatta University is ranked as the top university in Kenya and 46th across Africa, an accolade that reflects its dual excellence in academics and sports.
Prof. Wainaina reaffirmed the administration’s continued support for sports and recognized the indispensable contributions of partners and stakeholders. He emphasized that sports cultivate vital life skills—discipline, teamwork, and leadership, and encouraged the student-athletes to be exemplary ambassadors of KU, both on and off the court.
In a poignant and symbolic gesture, the Vice Chancellor officially handed over both the Kenyan national flag and the Kenyatta University flag to the teams, signifying the institution's trust, pride, and full support.
The ceremony concluded with a celebratory photo session featuring the Vice Chancellor, university leadership, students, and coaches. Demonstrating his personal enthusiasm, Prof. Wainaina signed a basketball, made a symbolic shot, and served a shuttlecock, energizing both teams before officially flagging them off for the championship.
With the flags raised high and spirits even higher, Kenyatta University sent off its athletes with confidence, pride, and a clear message: KU is not just participating but leading the way in sports and student excellence.
