By: Dennis Oduor
Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) officially welcomed its new cohort of first-year students through a comprehensive two-day orientation program held on 12th and 13th June 2025. The event marked the beginning of an exciting academic journey for the freshmen, featuring departmental briefings, motivational talks, and key addresses from the university’s top leadership.
Registrar Academic Affairs, Dr. Cromwell Kibiti, and Assistant Registrar, Dr. Jane Kyalo, warmly welcomed the freshers while overseeing the event to ensure a smooth and structured onboarding experience for the new students.
Day 1: Introduction to Campus Life and Student Services
The first day focused on familiarizing students with key departments, essential campus services, and university policies. Various offices and faculty leaders took turns addressing the students on topics aimed at easing their transition into university life.
The Library Department highlighted its operating hours, lending services, digital access to e-books and journals, and the availability of past examination papers. Students were encouraged to make use of the digital centre and online platforms available through the university’s official website.
The Director of Career Services warmly welcomed students to her department, underscoring her commitment to helping them align their academic goals with future career paths. She encouraged students to take advantage of career guidance programs, CV clinics, and internship placement opportunities offered by the office.
Deans from various schools—including Humanities and Social Sciences and Business—gave in-depth overviews of their respective faculties, the structure of academic programs, and the importance of attending both theoretical and practical classes. Examinations policies, including procedures for supplementary exams, retakes, and deferments, were clearly explained.
The University Counselor outlined his role in student welfare; providing academic guidance and mental health support. He emphasized that counseling services are available for students facing stress, anxiety, or personal challenges, reminding them: “Your journey is a marathon, not a sprint.”
The Finance Officer addressed financial planning and the importance of understanding the fee structure. He also explained key procedures involving course changes, deferment, and readmission.
Day 2: Vice Chancellor's Address and Vision for the Future
The second day was graced by senior university officials, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Laila, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter Gichangi, and other departmental heads.
Dr. Gichangi gave a detailed overview of TUM’s academic structure, highlighting its six faculties:
School of Engineering and Technology
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
School of Pure and Applied Sciences
School of Business
School of Medicine and Health Sciences
School of Graduate Studies
He emphasized the importance of the Student Handbook as a comprehensive guide to academic and behavioral expectations and encouraged all students to make use of the Career Services Office to help shape their professional future.
In her keynote address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Laila welcomed the students with warmth and optimism. She provided a brief history of the university, founded in 1948, and noted that the current student population stands at approximately 19,000.
Prof. Laila spoke passionately about the role of the university in equipping students with digital skills, stressing their importance in today’s technology-driven world. She also highlighted the significance of the university’s vision and motto, urging students to embody these values in their conduct and academic pursuits.
On the issue of discipline, the Vice Chancellor issued a strong warning against examination malpractice, vandalism, and theft of institutional property, noting that such actions carry serious consequences. "As students, it is your responsibility to protect and preserve the property and image of this institution," she affirmed.
Health and wellness were also key topics in her speech. She outlined the university’s commitment to student healthcare, addressing challenges such as HIV/AIDS, alcohol and substance abuse, betting and gambling with school fees, and mental health concerns. She assured students that support structures were in place to assist them in navigating these issues.
In closing, Prof. Laila left students with a powerful message:
“You can determine the future—and the only way is by creating it.”
The orientation program ended on a high note with a moment of prayer, followed by cheerful photo sessions. Students eagerly took selfies and group pictures with the Vice Chancellor and senior staff, capturing the beginning of what promises to be a transformative academic journey.
