The Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), in partnership with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and international stakeholders, successfully hosted the inaugural Each-Youth Integrity Dialogue, a strategic public communication and awareness initiative aimed at shaping ethical leadership among Kenya’s young people. The event took place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the Assembly Hall.
TUM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Laila Abubakar reaffirmed the university’s commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence, but strong moral character among students.
“This is not just a ceremony—this is a call to action,” she noted, emphasizing that institutions of higher learning serve as incubators of character.
“When our students step beyond our gates, we want them to carry with them both knowledge and values. Integrity is not a slogan. It is a lifestyle.”
Prof. Abubakar highlighted the concerns and expectations of Kenya’s youth, noting that today’s generation is eager for accountability, fairness, and opportunities that reflect Kenya’s rich potential. She encouraged all participants to engage actively, listen deeply, and develop practical strategies that will move the nation forward.
The forum brought together youth organizations, national leaders, and global development partners—including the European Union, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the National Youth Council—all united under the theme “Ethical Leadership for the Kenya We Want.”
Ms. Line Urban, Programme Manager for Elections, Human Rights, and Justice, encouraged young people to take initiative in designing and leading their own transformative projects. “The experiences you build by taking initiative, shaping ideas, raising funds, and pursuing your passion—these are the activities that strengthen your voice in society,” she said.
She also underscored the importance of ethical reporting, urging the youth to utilize EACC’s anonymous reporting mechanisms to expose corruption and unethical behaviour. She reaffirmed on commitment to core values—democracy, human rights, solidarity, equality, and justice—stating that the fight against corruption remains a crucial pillar of equality and development.
Mr. Koen Marquering, UNODC Deputy Regional Representative, applauded TUM for creating a platform where young people can directly influence governance processes.
“You, the youth, are central to shaping Kenya’s development trajectory. Your voice cannot be understated,” he emphasized.
He further announced preparations for the upcoming International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9, whose theme for this year is: “Uniting Youth Against Corruption to Shape Tomorrow’s Integrity.”
Ms. Gloria Wawira, Ag. CEO of the National Youth Council, highlighted the GRACE Initiative—an innovative global resource for anti-corruption education and youth empowerment.She encouraged young people to embrace integrity as a foundation for leadership and nation-building.
A vibrant youth roundtable created space for honest conversations with leaders, including:
Abdi A. Mahamud, MBS, Secretary/CEO, EACC
Fikirini Jacobs, Principal Secretary, State Department for Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Kivutha Kibwana, Former Governor, Makueni County, Ms. Asmert Tesfai, UNODC Eastern Africa and Mr. Amani Katana, Executive Director, YEPI.
PS Fikirini Jacobs reminded participants that Kenya is a young nation—75% of the population is under 35—making youth not just the future, but the present. “Young people have energy, vision, and a unique opportunity to break the chain of corruption that has affected generations,” he said. “It is your responsibility to say NO to corruption and YES to a new beginning.”
EACC’s Head of Corporate Affairs and Communications, Mr. Stephen Karuga, concluded by unveiling EACC’s plan to expand youth integrity dialogues across the country. “These interactive initiatives empower young people to examine governance challenges and co-create solutions for a more ethical Kenya,” he said.
“We began here, at TUM, the first edition. From here, we will move to our nation to ignite a new movement for integrity.”
This EACC -Youth Integrity Dialogue at TUM marks a powerful beginning, a united effort to empower young people with knowledge, courage, and platforms to challenge corruption and champion integrity.
