Sh6.4 million up for grabs as MKU searches for its most impactful alumni
Over Sh6 million is up for grabs as Mount Kenya University (MKU) kicked off the Alumni Award 2026, targeting former graduates whose work has made an impact on the society.
The university is reaching out to its alumni community in Kenya and across the Diaspora to identify graduates whose work is making a meaningful difference in the community.
“The nominee could be a community champion quietly changing lives at grassroots level, an entrepreneur creating employment, a professional excelling in their field, a public leader influencing policy or an innovator developing solutions to society’s biggest challenges,” reads a statement issued by the University Alumni Directorate.
The statement adds: “This is not simply a search for the most successful alumnus. It is a search for impact. That person could soon be recognised with one of the most prestigious honours available to an MKU graduate — and a USD 50,000 (Sh6.47 million) award.”
It goes on to explain that the impact does not have to stop at Kenya’s borders. MKU alumni living and working in the diaspora are equally eligible for nomination.
The overall winner will receive the Sh6.4 million in recognition of their significant contribution towards positively impacting society.
“Although every university produces graduates, some graduates go on to do something bigger — they use their knowledge, skills and opportunities to improve the lives of others. The 2026 MKU Alumni Award seeks to celebrate such individuals,” the statement asserts.
The successful candidates will also receive a certificate of recognition, while their name will be permanently inscribed on the MKU alumni wall of honour.
“The award therefore offers more than financial recognition. It creates a lasting record of an alumnus whose work has made a difference,” the Directorate writes.
The statement emphasizes that the nominee must be an MKU graduate with proven and sustainable contributions in a specific area of impact. They must also demonstrate integrity, professionalism and values consistent with the university’s mission.
“Maybe they are building a successful enterprise, making a difference through their profession, empowering others, championing innovation, or giving back to their community,” it adds.
The MKU Alumni Awards 2026 provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate outstanding alumni who are making meaningful contributions in their communities, professions, businesses and society at large.
From entrepreneurs creating employment and driving innovation to professionals excelling in their respective fields and community leaders making a lasting difference, the MKU alumni plans to demonstrate that the impact of education extends far beyond the classroom.
The nominations, whose details are on the MKU website, opened on 1 September 2026 and the award will be presented to the ultimate winner during the 30th graduation ceremony to be held on December 4, 2026.
