The Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) deputy Vice chancellor in charge of Administration Finance and Planning, Prof Joseph Rasowo, has urged the newly elected TUM student leaders to uphold the highest standards of integrity while serving students in various capacities.
Addressing TUM Students Association (TUMSA) officials during an induction workshop, held at Sunset Paradise Holiday Homes on 26 March, 2026, Prof Rasowo urged the young leaders to lead by example.
He also advised them on the need for balancing well between class and students governance saying they should be good performers both in leading and in academics.
“I am expecting you to perform very well in your exams. I don’t expect you to appear in the list of supplementary exams every academic year. Remember the key business that brought you at the University is education, please take it seriously,” Prof Rasowo said.
Prof Rasowo informed the student leaders that universities in Kenya are currently facing financial constraints; therefore, he advised the student representatives to exercise emotional intelligence when dealing with student issues at the university.
He reiterated that there is a laid down procedure to address all issues affecting students and urged them to follow the right channel instead of rioting.
“We are operating with limited resources. This problem cuts across all universities, so please if you don’t get whatever you have requested on time, just bear with us. As parents we want the best for you, but sometimes our hands are tied due to tough economic times,” the DVC said.
Prof Rasowo reminded the student leaders to address their dress code and encourage other students to follow suit. He emphasized that some students have abused the concept of my dress my choice by dressing indecently.
While responding to a question from the TUMSA Kwale Campus governor Martin Nicodemus Masimba, Prof Rasowo highlighted that the basketball court at Kwale campus will be refurbished in the next financial year 2026/2027.
The sentiments were echoed by the TUM dean of students Mr Joel Awino who said the issue of the basketball court was discussed in the university management board meeting and promised that it will be sorted amicably. He also promised to fast track the WIFI installation at the campus hostels.
National bank branch manager Mr David Bwire gave a detailed presentation on financial management. Bwire encouraged the student leaders to spend their resources wisely and embrace a saving culture during these tough economic times.
“Know exactly where your money is going and why it is going there,” Bwire said.
He urged the young leaders to appreciate the efforts done by university administration noting that success is a process and good things take time.
“It doesn’t matter if a glass is half or full. Be grateful that you have a glass and there something in it,” Bwire concluded.
Other key speakers in the induction workshop were: the acting Finance officer Ms. Feiruz Juma who delivered a presentation on planning and budgeting of TUMSA funds. Registrar administration and planning Dr Shivani Patel talked about good resource management, while the TUM legal team represented by June Khan took them through the legal perspectives in students unions and some of key regulations affecting university students.
