A bold new chapter in sports scholarship has begun with the launch of the Centre of Olympic Studies (KUCOS), a pioneering initiative designed to position the University as a leading hub for Olympic education, sports research, athlete development and the preservation of Kenya’s rich sporting heritage.
The Centre brings together academia, government, sports organisations and the National Olympic Committee of Kenya in a shared commitment to harness sport as a catalyst for education, innovation and national development. Through multidisciplinary research, knowledge generation and strategic partnerships, KUCOS is expected to strengthen evidence based decision making while nurturing future sports leaders.
Speaking during the launch, DVC (Academic Affairs) Prof. Bernard Kivunge, who represented the VC, described the Centre as a timely and strategic investment that will enhance Olympic studies, youth empowerment, disability inclusion and sports leadership. He noted that the Centre will generate credible research to inform policy and practice while strengthening collaboration between academia and sports institutions.
National Olympic Committee of Kenya President Mr Shadrack Maluki lauded the establishment of the Centre, noting that it has the potential to bridge Olympic scholarship and practice. He emphasised the importance of athlete welfare, leadership development and Olympic values education, adding that preserving and sharing Kenya’s sporting legacy will inspire future generations.
The Centre’s vision was further articulated by Dr Edna Thangu, Coordinator of KUCOS, who described it as a globally connected African hub dedicated to academic excellence, Olympic leadership and sustainable impact. Its strategic focus areas include research and capacity building, governance and social impact, community engagement, athlete welfare and Olympic legacy preservation.
Earlier, Lead Coordinator Dr Nkatha Muthomi highlighted the Centre’s ambition to celebrate Olympians, athletes and coaches while advancing research, heritage preservation, archives and museum development. Among its long term aspirations is the establishment of a Kenyan Olympic Hall of Fame.
A highlight of the event was an inspirational address by celebrated Olympian Douglas Wakiihuri, who urged young people to embrace discipline, hard work and innovation. He called for the preservation of Kenya’s sporting history through archives, films and educational programmes, while encouraging greater storytelling and content creation around sports.
The launch also marked the graduation of the first cohort of ten participants from the Advanced Sport Management Course under KUCOS programmes, underscoring the Centre’s commitment to building capacity and strengthening sports leadership.
As KUCOS begins its journey, it stands poised to become a centre of excellence that advances research, preserves Olympic heritage and shapes the future of sport in Kenya, Africa and beyond.