NAIROBI, KENYA –October 14th 2025
The University of Nairobi’s Women Students Welfare Association (WOSWA) ushered in a new era of leadership on the October 6th 2025, as the freshly elected officials took their oath of office in a colorful and well-attended swearing-in ceremony at the University of Nairobi towers, Main Campus. The new team, led by President Marion, pledged to tackle student welfare, with a strong focus on mental health advocacy and an expanded mentorship program for female students.
The Chief Guest, Mr. John Orindi, delivered a keynote address that underscored the strategic role of WOSWA in empowering female students at the University over the years. He acknowledged the unique challenges women face both within and beyond the university environment and applauded WOSWA for being a consistent voice in gender-based violence (GBV) advocacy.
Mr. Orindi emphasized the intersection between menstrual equity, period poverty, and GBV, commending WOSWA for its ongoing campaigns to support students with hygiene paraphernalia and dignity packs. He pledged the University’s continued support to WOSWA and encouraged engagement with corporate partners to strengthen these initiatives.
He further highlighted the importance of male allyship through the HeForHer initiative, stressing that gender justice requires collective effort from both men and women. Mr. Orindi proposed a joint Freshers’ Orientation event between the University of Nairobi and WOSWA in the upcoming academic year. The initiative aims to mentor and orient new female students, particularly those vulnerable to peer pressure, culture shock, and exploitation, thereby creating a safe and empowering learning environment for the girl child.
In conclusion, Mr. Orindi commended WOSWA’s remarkable impact in nurturing young women leaders who continue to excel in corporate, political, academic, and social spheres. He recognized Ms. Mary Ojuang as a role model of continued mentorship, lauding her sustained contribution to student leadership and gender empowerment even beyond her tenure and to other universities across the country.
The WOSWA Patron, Prof. Anne Aseey, provided an overview of the Association’s background, mission, and vision, tracing its growth from a campus-based mentorship initiative to a nationally recognized youth-led feminist movement. She highlighted WOSWA’s key achievements, including global recognition for its leadership and advocacy programs, and applauded the outgoing team for their dedication.
Prof. Aseey officially welcomed the newly elected officials, urging them to serve with purpose, integrity, and empathy, and to uphold WOSWA’s values of solidarity and leadership for social change.
Ms. Purity, the current UNSA Vice President, commended WOSWA’s role in nurturing women leaders and providing platforms for engagement beyond the academic space. She emphasized that WOSWA serves as a bridge linking female students with industry and leadership opportunities, adding that the new leadership should leverage WOSWA’s strong legacy to expand its impact.
She also discussed the challenges women face in political leadership, affirming her commitment to collaborate with WOSWA throughout her tenure. Ms. Purity pledged to support WOSWA through the UNSA gender budget to facilitate smooth implementation of programs and joint engagements aimed at empowering female students across all campuses.
Former Miss University of Nairobi, Ms. Quinter Awino, delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of women empowerment in today’s society. She encouraged the new officials to be confident, collaborative, and visionary in pursuing equality and leadership.
As the Independent Electoral Committee (IEC) Chairperson, Ms. Mary Ojuang presented the election report, detailing the process that saw 3,215 students vote and 61 candidates participate across various leadership positions from across all University of Nairobi faculties. She affirmed that the elections were conducted transparently and fairly, ensuring inclusivity and credibility.
However, Ms. Ojuang reported an unfortunate incident where 15 male students attacked one of the WOSWA officials overseeing the election process at the WOSWA office. She confirmed that the matter was being handled by University security, expressing optimism that similar occurrences would be prevented in future elections. She also thanked the University administration and security team for their prompt response and continued support.
The newly elected 41 WOSWA officials took their oath of leadership under the guidance of Rev. Hosea Mitei, the University of Nairobi Chaplain. Certificates of leadership were then issued by Assistant Chaplain Ms. Violet Njeri Kinandu, marking the formal induction of the new office bearers.
The ceremony concluded with a word of prayer led by Ms. Violet Njeri Kinandu at 5:00 PM, followed by light refreshments and photo sessions with the new officials and guests.
The WOSWA Swearing-In Ceremony 2025 was a successful and empowering event that celebrated the spirit of leadership, mentorship, and solidarity among women students. It reaffirmed the University of Nairobi’s commitment to supporting gender equality initiatives and highlighted WOSWA’s vital role in advancing women’s empowerment and advocacy within and beyond the university.
With a renewed leadership team, strengthened partnerships, and growing institutional support, WOSWA is well-positioned to continue its transformative work — mentoring the next generation of women leaders who will drive change in corporate, political, and community spaces.
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