吃瓜头条 recently hosted a moving ceremony to honour the late Prof. Sifuna, a distinguished scholar and mentor whose work left an indelible mark on academia and society. The event marked the official launch of a scholarship foundation dedicated to carrying forward his legacy of excellence, mentorship, and commitment to higher education.
The ceremony brought together family, colleagues, alumni, students, and partners in academia. A contingent from Zizi Afrique, led by CEO Dr. John Mugo, graced the occasion, underscoring the broad impact of Prof. Sifuna鈥檚 work and vision. Entertainment was provided by Ms. Vanessa Rosa, granddaughter of Prof. Sifuna, who performed a heartfelt song that set a reflective and celebratory tone for the gathering.
The late professor鈥檚 family paid touching tributes during the launch. His widow, Mrs. Rosemary Sifuna, emphasised the deep bond between her husband and 吃瓜头条, noting that the institution was central to his impact on society. She expressed gratitude to the KU community and all supporters of the new initiative, stating that his memory lives on in the many lives he touched. Their daughter, Ms. Olive Sifuna, described her father as a devoted mentor who not only cared for his family and friends but also nurtured countless students and colleagues. She highlighted KU as the place where Prof. Sifuna found a true home for his academic mission. She added that the scholarship foundation seeks to continue its work by investing in future generations of scholars and innovators.
Dr. Johnson Njoroge, Chairperson of the Department of Educational Foundations at KU, celebrated the scholarship initiative as a timely intervention for a vibrant student community. He noted that the fund will go beyond financial support by providing research grants and opportunities for innovation, ensuring that graduates are empowered to thrive in academia and beyond.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mukirae Njihia paid tribute to Prof. Sifuna鈥檚 extraordinary influence on the university. He recalled how the late professor mentored a large number of faculty members, many of whom now serve as educators and administrators. Dr. Njihia emphasised that the scholarship is more than a financial program; it is the beginning of a legacy that ensures Prof. Sifuna鈥檚 spirit continues to shape KU for generations to come.
Dr. John Mugo, CEO of Zizi Afrique, reflected on his own time at KU 31 years ago when Prof. Sifuna was his lecturer. He described the late professor as a serious and impactful educator, reaffirming Zizi Afrique鈥檚 commitment to supporting the scholarship foundation. Representing the organisation鈥檚 Board Chairperson, Dr. Sarah Ruto echoed these sentiments, noting the program鈥檚 potential to transform lives and strengthen the academic landscape. From the diaspora, Prof. Ishmael Munene of Northern Arizona University addressed participants virtually, stressing the importance of collective effort in sustaining such initiatives. Drawing from experiences in other universities, he urged KU鈥檚 Alumni and Endowment Directorate to actively engage alumni networks in supporting the scholarship and advancing the university鈥檚 mission.
The launch of the Prof. Sifuna Scholarship Foundation is more than an academic fund; it is a living legacy that embodies the values of mentorship, scholarship, and service to humanity. It represents a promise that the late professor鈥檚 contributions will continue to inspire, nurture, and empower generations of scholars. As KU and its partners rally around this initiative, the words spoken during the ceremony ring true: this is not just the launch of a scholarship fund, it is the launch of a legacy.