The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peninah Aloo-Obudho in her speech to the first years, urged the students to make a deliberate decision to have their entire life at Maasai Mara University be as memorable as possible. The V.C emphasised the need to prioritise and Put God first for success. She quoted Proverbs 9:10-12 and Proverbs 16:3 that the fear of the lord is the begging of wisdom. The first years were reminded that the top most priority is academics and they should emphasise on academic excellence. The V.C advised the students to network and interact well for guidance and mentorship, precipitate in extra curriculum activities. “ Make friends, choose them wisely. There are repercussions on type of friends one has. Good friendship is about the quality not quantity and iron sharpen iron, show me your friends and I will tell you who you are, ” she said. The students were also advised to have good financial habits; save well and practice delayed
gratification, live within their means, be firm and have self-controls such as responsibility and avoiding actions they might regret later. The Vice-Chancellor urged the students to avoid drugs and substance abuse, be responsible for personal security and choose to be in good relationships. “ There is time for everything, you can choose to delay or abstain from sex, if you have to, protect yourselves.” In order to have a fulfilled life, the V.C emphasised the need to be passionate and adopt the 3 Cs: Courageous, carefulness and compassionate. The students were also informed about the University’s five model brand: Mau Forest Complex , Mara River, Maasai Mara Game Reserve, Maa Culture and Maombi Kwa Wote. The Vice-Chancellor reinterred the University commitment to providing quality education reiterating the efforts towards entrepreneurial and innovations curriculum that is being reviewed
for implementation. “ The narrative is changing and institutions are now gearing towards creating job creators, not job hunters, ” the V.C said, “Make your life at the University delightful and memorable by doing the right things at the right time and with the right people,” she noted. The Council representative, Ms. Agnes Busienei and a cross section of University management were present.