News and Events

1. Background

The Agri-Innovation Hub at South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) is a dedicated platform designed to nurture, accelerate, and scale agricultural ideas into viable products, services and enterprises. Serving both students and external entrepreneurs, the Hub bridges the gap between research, practice and market-ready innovation.

2. Support Structure
The Hub operates through an integrated support ecosystem composed of the following key components:

a. Governance, Management and Strategic Leadership
A multidisciplinary steering committee guides the Hub’s strategic direction, ensuring alignment with national development goals and SEKU’s strategic goals in agriculture, food security, climate resilience and youth employment.

b. Innovation Support Teams

• Innovation Managers: oversee project intake, monitor progress and coordinate support services.
• Technical Experts and Mentors: drawn from SEKU’s faculties (Agriculture, Environment, Water and Natural Resources; Business & Economics) to provide sectorspecific guidance.
• Business Development and Commercialization Specialists: help innovators refine business models, conduct market research, and prepare investment pitches.
• ICT and infrastructure support team: Provides and maintains digital systems, connectivity, and physical facilities to enable effective incubation, innovation, and collaboration.
• Training, extension and community engagement specialists: To ensure uptake and real world impact
• Finance and administration: grant management, budgeting, financial accounting

c. Collaborative Networks
Partnerships with industry, local government agencies, research institutions, funding bodies and community groups ensure innovators have access to expertise, market linkages, and potential investment.

3. How Innovators Can Apply for Support

a. Application Process

1. Concept Submission: Innovators submit a brief concept note via the Hub’s online portal or physical submission at the Innovation Hub office.
2. Screening: A review panel evaluates submissions based on criteria such as novelty,feasibility, impact potential and alignment with the Hub’s focus areas.
3. Selection and Onboarding: Selected innovators are onboarded into the incubator program and matched with appropriate support resources (mentors, facilities, training).

b. Role of the Contact Person
Each applying innovator is assigned a Hub Contact Officer: a dedicated liaison who:

1. Assists with clarifying application requirements
2. Guides innovators through the intake process
3. Coordinates access to facilities and resources
4. Monitors progress and facilitates troubleshooting

This contact person serves as the primary point of communication between the hub and the innovator.

4. Opportunities Available in the Incubation Nest
The Hub provides an incubation ecosystem equipped with essential tools, facilities and services to support technology development, testing, piloting and commercialization:

a. Laboratory Facilities

1. Soil and plant nutrient analysis lab
2. Biotechnology lab
3. Post-harvest quality and processing lab
4. Animal nutrition and microbiology lab

b. Prototyping and Development Space

1. Prototyping Laboratory with tools for building and testing prototypes
2. Clean room for packaging and small-scale processing
3. ICT Lab for digital agriculture solutions

c. Support Services and Training

1. Structured training on ideation, product design, business modelling
2. Workshops on standards, regulatory compliance, IP protection
3. Access to demonstration farms for field trials

d. Innovation Pathways
Innovators can develop:

1. Agri-hardware: e.g., low-cost irrigation devices, post-harvest machines
2. Bio-products: biofertilizers, biopesticides, animal feed supplements
3. Digital solutions: farm management apps, market linkages platforms
4. Value-added food products: dairy, grains, fruits and vegetables processing
5. Fields of Innovation Supported

The SEKU Agri-Innovation Hub supports a broad range of innovation areas reflecting both emerging trends and regional needs:

1. Crop Science and Horticulture - Disease-resistant varieties, hydroponic systems
2. Soil and Water Management - Precision irrigation, soil humidification tools
3. Animal Health and Production - Feed innovations, livestock monitoring sensors
4. Agro-processing - Food preservation technologies, packaging solutions
5. Agri-Business and Value Chains - Market platforms, supply chain analytics
6. Climate Smart Agriculture - Renewable energy for farms, carbon sequestration tools
7. ICT in Agriculture - Digital advisory tools, drone data analytics

6. Monitoring and Evaluation
The SEKU Agri-Innovation Hub has established a results-based Monitoring and Evaluation system to track performance, outputs, outcomes, and key indicators across its programmes. The system supports regular reporting to funders, the university, and partners, and informs learning, accountability, and continuous improvement.

7. Conclusion
The SEKU Agri-Innovation Hub stands as a vibrant engine for transformation - turning agricultural ideas into real-world solutions. By providing structured support, state-of-the-art facilities, coaching and market linkages, the Hub empowers innovators [both students and entrepreneurs] to solve pressing agricultural challenges, enhance productivity, and create scalable enterprises that contribute to sustainable development in Kenya and beyond.

Applications Now Open

South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) invites prospective students to apply for admission into various academic programmes for the 2026/2027 academic year. The University is committed to providing quality education, research, and innovation for sustainable development.

Why Choose South Eastern Kenya University?

• Accredited academic programmes
• Qualified and experienced academic staff
• Conducive learning and research environment
• Affordable and quality university education

Programmes on Offer

The University offers a wide range of programmes at the Certificate, Diploma, Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels across its various schools.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the detailed list of programmes available for the 2026/2027 academic year.

Download the List of Programmes (PDF)

South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) was among a select group of African universities chosen to participate in a landmark UNESCO-funded initiative aimed at empowering female teachers and school leaders through mobile-based learning.
The initiative was launched during a high-level Regional Inception Workshop held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The forum brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on the implementation of mobile-based digital learning solutions across the African continent under the Pan African Virtual and E-Learning University (PAVEU) framework.
The workshop convened 40 participants drawn from Kenya, Nigeria, South Sudan, Algeria, and Cameroon. With the exception of South Sudan, the participating countries were selected due to hosting a Pan African University (PAU) campus, a strategic partner in the rollout of the PAVEU digital learning initiative across Africa.
South Eastern Kenya University was proudly represented by Dr. Sarah Ndanu Mwangangi Ngesu, a Lecturer in Kiswahili and Translation. Dr. Ngesu’s participation was informed by her extensive experience in technology-supported teaching, digital learning, and research in machine translation.
SEKU’s participation in this prestigious UNESCO-funded initiative underscores the University’s commitment to digital transformation, gender empowerment, and innovative teaching and learning, while strengthening its presence in regional and continental higher education collaborations.

The following are the specifications for applying for the short course

1. Application letter
2. Copies of academic certificates
3. A Passport size photograph
4. Original copy of registration fees receipt of ksh 1000

Send the application to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or deliver hard copies to SEKU Kitui Campus school of Business Administration office
Application deadline: 2/2/2026 | Classes begin on 9/2/2026

Access the student lecturer evaluation forms for the First Semester of the 2025/2026 academic year at South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU). Provide valuable feedback to enhance the academic experience.

1. Agriculture, Environment, Water and Natural Resources Management
2. Business and Economics
3. Education
4. Engineering and Technology
5. Health Sciences
6. Humanities and Social Sciences
7. Law
8. Science and Computing
9. Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET)

1. Step 1: Open browser → Enter: seku.ac.ke/household
2. Step 2: ENTER NUMBER: Type your Admission/Registration Number (exactly as on your student ID)
3. Step 3: SEARCH: Click/tap the SEARCH button (green button)
4. Step 4: VIEW: See your Household Amount Per Semester displayed in KSh

South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) is pleased to announce Work-Study Opportunities for continuing students. The program provides students with the chance to earn while gaining valuable work experience within various university departments.

Applicants must:

1. Be registered continuing students at SEKU.
2. Have a valid student ID.
3. Demonstrate financial need.
4. Be of good academic standing and discipline record.

Students will be placed in various departments, including but not limited to:

1. Library Services
2. Central Services
3. University Farm
4. Procurement

Interested students should submit the following to the Office of the Director, Human Resource Management:

1. A written application letter indicating preferred area of placement.
2. A copy of their student ID.
3. A recommendation letter from their School/Faculty Dean.

Deadline for Applications: 16 ^th January, 2026.

Apply now

The Public Health Officers and Technicians Council (PHOTC), the regulatory body mandated to oversee public health training and practice in Kenya, conducted a re-inspection of the Bachelor of Science in Public Health programme at South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) on 27th November 2025.
The inspection team was led by Mr. William Kitagwa. Upon arrival, the team was formally received by the Acting Academic Registrar, Prof. Eliud Muli, the Dean, School of Health Sciences, Dr. Stanalus Musyoki and the Chairperson of the Department of Public Health Dr. Taratisio Ndwiga.
The re-inspection exercise aimed at assessing the University’s compliance with PHOTC training standards and requirements, following previous recommendations made by the PHOTC Council. The team evaluated key areas including academic staffing, curriculum implementation, teaching and learning facilities, laboratories, student support services, and overall readiness of the programme to deliver quality public health training.
During the exercise, the PHOTC team interacted with University management and departmental leadership, reviewed relevant documentation, and toured teaching and learning facilities within the School of Health Sciences. The engagement provided an opportunity for SEKU to demonstrate improvements made towards strengthening the BSc Public Health programme and aligning it with national regulatory expectations.
SEKU remains committed to maintaining high academic and professional standards in all its programmes and continues to work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure that its graduates are well equipped with the knowledge and skills required to serve society effectively.

Members of the South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) Mentorship Association on 28th October 2025 undertook an educational visit to three key national institutions: the Judiciary, the Kenya National Archives, and the Senate in an experience that proved both informative and inspiring.
The delegation of about 100 mentorship association members was led by Dr. Kavembe and Dr. Munguti, whose guidance ensured the visit achieved its learning objectives. The tour was aimed at exposing students to the practical workings of governance, justice, and national heritage, complementing classroom learning with real-world experience.
At the Judiciary, the students were accorded a rare opportunity to sit in the chambers, where they observed court proceedings and participated in mock court sessions. This interactive engagement enabled the students to better understand judicial processes, courtroom procedures, and the administration of justice in Kenya. The hands-on sessions sparked lively discussions and deepened appreciation of the rule of law and constitutional governance.
The delegation also visited the Kenya National Archives, where members were taken through the country’s rich historical records and documentary heritage. The visit highlighted the importance of preserving national history and culture, while offering insights into how archival information supports research, policy formulation, and national identity.
The tour concluded with a visit to the Senate, where students learned about the legislative process and the role of the Senate in representing counties and safeguarding devolution. Sitting in the Senate chambers gave members a first-hand feel of parliamentary proceedings and enhanced their understanding of Kenya’s governance structure.
Overall, the visit was a highly enriching experience, providing mentorship association members with invaluable exposure beyond the lecture halls. The University leadership commends Dr. Kavembe and Dr. Munguti for organizing the visit and reaffirms SEKU’s commitment to experiential learning that nurtures informed, responsible, and engaged citizens.

South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) 19th November, 2025 held a colourful inauguration ceremony for newly elected student leaders marking the official transition of leadership within the student body.
The ceremony was officiated by the acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis Wachira, who underscored the importance of servant leadership, integrity, and accountability in student governance. He congratulated the incoming leaders and urged them to work collaboratively with the University Management to promote harmony, academic excellence, and student welfare.
During the ceremony, the newly elected leaders were formally sworn into office by the legal officer Ms. Nicole Nyamai committing themselves to uphold the Constitution, represent the interests of students, and support the University’s vision and mission. The event also featured the handover of instruments of leadership, as outgoing leaders gracefully passed the mantle to their successors, symbolizing continuity and responsibility in student leadership.
The University Management commended the outgoing leaders for their dedicated service and contribution to student affairs, while expressing confidence in the ability of the new leadership to build on the gains made.
The inauguration ceremony reaffirmed SEKU’s commitment to nurturing responsible leadership and democratic values among students, preparing them for future roles in society and national development.

The IEEE Student Branch of South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) proudly represented the university at the International Microwave and Antennas Symposium (IMAS 2025), held at Villa Rosa Kempinski, Nairobi.

The symposium, themed “From Savannah to Skyline: Microwave & Antenna Technologies for Africa’s Growth,” brought together researchers and students from across the world to explore innovations in wireless and communication systems.With distinguished guests such as the Principal Secretary, State department for broadcasting and Telecommunications. Mr. David Mugonyi, Director General, Communications authority of Kenya.
Ten SEKU students presented research posters, with Mr. Morgan Waweru, emerging as First Runners-up, beating participants from countries including India, Italy, Egypt, China, and Saudi Arabia. His project, “Rugged Solar-Powered Multi-Sensor Pod with RF and Acoustic Sensing for Autonomous Surveillance,” impressed judges for its innovation and practicality.

In recognition of their leadership, Mr. Morgan Waweru and Mr. Victor Nyataige Okombe, Chair of the Microwave theory and Technology society and Antennas and Propagation Society (AP-S) respectively, have been selected under the IEEE Travel Grant Programme to represent SEKU and Kenya at the Chapter Chairs Meeting during IEEE MAPCON 2025, to be held in Kochi, India, this December.

Appreciate goes to the University Administration for its continued support and Dr. Benson Ojwang for his mentorship. SEKU remains committed to advancing innovation, research, and global collaboration and encourages students to join IEEE SEKU to access such opportunities.

FIRST SEMESTER (14 WEEKS)

• Monday 1^st – 16^th September 2025
  1^st Semester 2025/2026
• 10^th November – 19th December 2025
  Continuation of Lectures
• 22^nd December 2025 – 2^nd January 2026
  Christmas Break
• 5^th – 16^th January 2026
  Resumption of Lectures
• 19^th – 30^th January 2026
  First Semester Examinations Period

SECOND SEMESTER (14 WEEKS)

• Monday 2^nd February – 24^th April 2026
  Teaching Period for Second Semester
• Monday 27^th April – Friday 8^th May 2026
  Second Semester Examinations period

ATTACHMENT / THIRD SEMESTER (15 WEEKS)

• Monday 11^th May – 21^st August 2026
  Teaching practice/attachment/practicum Third semester for Nursing and Module II programmes

Please note that, the semester dates are only applicable to Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. TVET programmes will follow the earlier approved semester dates

South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) on Monday hosted the World AIDS Day commemoration led by the county Government of Kitui together with its partners. The commemoration brought together students, faculty members, health professionals, county officials, and members of neighboring communities under this year’s theme: One race, one goal: ending aids in adolescence and youn g people
The event aimed at raising awareness on HIV/AIDS, promote preventive measures, encourage testing, and reaffirm the commitment to ending the epidemic through collective action.
Speaking during the celebration, SEKU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Eng. Douglas Shitanda emphasized the university’s role in championing health education, research, and student welfare. He noted that institutions of higher learning play an essential part in shaping informed young people who can lead the fight against HIV stigma and discrimination.
Officials from the Kitui County lead by Dr. Ombula echoed this message, highlighting the importance of partnerships between academic institutions and county governments. They reaffirmed the county’s commitment to supporting HIV prevention, treatment, and care services, and praised SEKU for its proactive approach in involving youth and communities.
Throughout the day, participants benefited from free HIV testing and counseling services offered by Kitui County health workers and partner organizations. Additional services included screening for other sexually transmitted infections, distribution of condoms, mental-health counseling, and educational materials on sexual and reproductive health.
Artistic performances including spoken word, drama, and music—reinforced messages of hope, resilience, and communal responsibility. These creative expressions helped inspire conversations around breaking myths surrounding HIV and promoting inclusive attitudes.
In closing, both SEKU and the County Government of Kitui reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining awareness campaigns, strengthening community health programs, and ensuring accessible prevention and treatment services for all. The event concluded with a call to action for every individual to take responsibility in the fight against HIV/AIDS by getting tested, supporting affected persons, and promoting accurate information.
As Kenya continues to work toward the goal of ending Aids by 2030, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths, the SEKU–Kitui partnership stands as a shining example of how collaboration and community leadership can drive lasting change.

Kenya Cabinet Secretary for Education Hon, Julius Ogamba, officially launched laboratory equipment worth KShs 40 million at South Eastern Kenya University. The equipment was provide to enhance the university’s scientific research and training capacity.

Speaking during the launch, the Cabinet Secretary commended SEKU for its growing role in advancing research and innovation, noting that the new equipment will significantly enhance the university’s contribution to Kenya’s scientific and technological development.

The newly launched equipment is expected to greatly impact teaching, research, and innovation at the university in several key ways:

• Enhanced hands-on learning: Students will now engage more deeply in practical scientific training, moving beyond theory to real laboratory experience that aligns with international standards.
• Strengthened research capabilities: Local researchers will be able to complete critical studies, generate data, and publish findings in reputable journals—supporting Kenya’s contribution to global scientific knowledge.
• Expanded research collaborations: With improved laboratory capacity, SEKU will be better positioned to build new partnerships with national and international institutions, fostering multidisciplinary research and innovation.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Douglas Shitanda, expressed gratitude to Seeding Labs and the Ministry of Education for their support, affirming that the equipment will catalyze the university’s research agenda and strengthen its mandate of providing high-quality education and solutions to challenges affecting arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) and the country at large.He also added that this investment marks a new era for SEKU’s scientific community. It will equip SEKU students with practical skills and empower our researchers to pursue groundbreaking studies that directly impact society

The partnership between SEKU and Seeding Labs underscores the importance of global cooperation in advancing science and innovation. The equipment launch marks a significant milestone in SEKU’s journey toward becoming a leading research institution in Kenya and the region.

SEKU remains committed to nurturing scientific talent, driving innovation, and generating solutions that contribute to national development and global scientific progress.

South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) officially launched its Alumni Association in a colourful and memorable ceremony held on 31st October, 2025 at the Main Campus in Kwa Vonza. The event was presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for Education Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba, who officially inaugurated the Association.
The launch marks a major milestone for the University, signaling a new era of strengthened partnerships, collaboration, and engagement between SEKU and its growing community of graduates. The formation of the Alumni Association is expected to enhance mentorship programmes, support student growth, promote professional networks, and contribute to the University’s overall development agenda.
Speaking during the event, the Cabinet Secretary for Education commended SEKU for its rapid growth, commitment to academic excellence, and dedication to producing graduates who are transforming communities across Kenya and beyond. He emphasized the importance of alumni associations in fostering institutional advancement and pledged the Ministry’s continued support in ensuring universities thrive as a centres of innovation and societal progress.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eng. Douglas Shitanda, celebrated the milestone as a significant step in strengthening SEKU’s legacy. He urged alumni to remain connected to the institution and actively participate in initiatives that uplift the University and current students. He also expressed optimism that the Alumni Association will unlock new opportunities for partnerships, fundraising, mentorship, and collaborative research.
The newly launched SEKU Alumni Association will serve as a vital platform for engaging graduates from various academic fields, creating avenues for networking, career development, and community service. Through this initiative, SEKU hopes to maintain lasting bonds with its alumni while encouraging them to give back through knowledge sharing, resource mobilization, and advocacy for the University’s growth.
The ceremony featured presentations, entertainment, and the unveiling of the Association’s strategic focus areas. Alumni representatives expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to supporting SEKU’s vision of being a globally competitive centre of excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and community service.
The University congratulates all alumni and welcomes them to join the newly launched Association as partners in shaping the future of SEKU.

South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) marked a historic milestone on 31st October 2025 as it hosted its 12th Graduation Ceremony, a vibrant celebration of academic excellence, innovation, and transformation. The event, held at the SEKU Main Campus in Kwa Vonza, brought together thousands of graduates, parents, staff, invited guests, and partners in higher education
Graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Education, who was the Chief Guest, congratulated the graduating class of 2025 for their resilience and hard work, emphasizing the government’s continued commitment to supporting public universities in delivering quality education and impactful research.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Douglas Shitanda, extended a warm appreciation to the Ministry of Education for its support to the university. He highlighted SEKU’s steady growth in academic programmes, infrastructure, and research output, noting that the institution continues to play a critical role in advancing education and development in the region, particularly in areas related to arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs).
Prof. Shitanda made two key requests to the Cabinet Secretary on behalf of the university community

1. Construction of a Mega Library Named in Honour of the President
   The VC appealed to the CS to convey to His Excellency the President the university’s request for the construction of a state-of-the-art mega library at SEKU. He noted that such a facility, built in honour of the President would greatly enhance teaching, learning, and research, while transforming SEKU into a premier knowledge hub in the region.
2. Acquisition of Two Electric Buses for Student Transport
   The VC also requested the Ministry of Education to support the university by purchasing two electric buses. These buses would ease transport challenges for students who commute daily between Kwa Vonza town and the SEKU Main Campus, promoting convenience while advancing green mobility within the university.

The Cabinet Secretary lauded SEKU for its commitment to innovation, environmental sustainability, and community development, assuring the University of the Ministry’s willingness to explore the requests made by the Vice Chancellor.
The ceremony saw hundreds of graduates conferred with degrees, diplomas, and certificates across various schools. The atmosphere was filled with joy and pride as graduates celebrated the end of one chapter and the beginning of new opportunities.
As SEKU continues to expand its academic footprint and promote research excellence, the 12th Graduation Ceremony stands as a testament to the university’s dedication to shaping future leaders and contributing to national development.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

12th Graduation Booklet (2025) | Download

OFFICE OF THE ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

12^TH GRADUATION CEREMONY TO BE HELD ON
FRIDAY, 31^ST OCTOBER 2025 AT THE MAIN CAMPUS (KWA-VONZA- KITUI) STARTING AT 9.00 A.M.

CONFIRMATION OF ORDER OF NAMES

The names of graduands will be posted on the University website www.seku.ac.ke in the following order: First name, Middle name(s), Surname. The graduands are required to confirm the names and send correction if any to the University Examinations Office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. copied to Academic Registrar at registrar- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. not later than Friday 3^rd October, 2025

Note: Graduands are advised not to introduce names other than those used during admission to the University.

REHEARSAL

All graduands are required to attend the rehearsal at the Graduation Pavilion at 2.00 p.m. on Thursday 30^th October, 2025 dressed in full graduation attire. The graduands should be seated by 1.30 p.m.

GRADUATION FEES AND ACADEMIC ATTIRE

The academic attire will be issued to graduands from 24^th to 29^th October, 2025, between 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. at the respective Deans’/Campus Offices, upon producing a receipt of payment of the graduation fee as follows:

• Certificate - Kshs 5,500
• Diploma - Kshs. 5,500
• Undergraduate - Kshs. 6,000
• Masters - Kshs. 7,000
• Doctorate - Kshs. 8,000

The academic attire must be returned by 14^th November, 2025, failure to which it shall attract a penalty fee of Kshs 500.00 per day.

PUNCTUALITY ON GRADUATION DAY

All graduands, parents/guardians and guests should be seated by 8.30 a.m.

PAYMENTS

Payments should be done through any one of the following: National Bank, SEKU Branch, A/c. 01021052862000; Equity Bank, Kitui Branch, A/c. 0720295920757; ABSA Bank, Kitui Branch, A/c. 2021558152; Co-operative Bank, Kitui Branch, A/c. 01129300544600; Family bank, Kitui branch, A/c. 072000038445; KCB, Kitui Branch, A/c. 1127693166,Jiunge

For any inquiries please contact Academic Registrar at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

1. Question and Answer Forum

All cleared Electoral College Representatives (ECR) and Student Governing Council (SGC) candidates for the 2025/2026 academic year are invited to a Question and Answer (Q&A) Forum scheduled for Thursday, 30^th October 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The session will be held at the Research and Innovation Centre Boardroom.