“Significant achievement”, “new era”: Archbishop, Kenya’s Parliament Speaker on Newly Chartered Catholic University

The Local Ordinary of Nairobi Archdiocese since November 2021 continued, “This Charter grant guarantees that Tangaza University will continue to offer high quality education deeply anchored in the Catholic tradition, nurturing not only the intellect but also the heart and the spirit of the students.”

Since its founding in 1986, he said, TU has undertaken a “remarkable journey of expansion and service building of the pillars of our faith. It has become a lighthouse of knowledge and ethical leadership, shaping generations who are devoted to social change and community service.”

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“Our university has consistently upheld its identity and legacy, aligning itself and its growth with the needs of the church and the broader community. This charter acknowledges its long-standing tradition of excellence and capacity for future contributions,” the Kenyan Catholic Church leader said during the May 2 ceremony at TU’s Karen campus. 

He added, “As we embrace these new opportunities and responsibilities today, let us renew our commitment to this mission ensuring that Tangaza University continues to be a place where values are lived and leaders are formed.”

On his part, the Speaker of Kenya’s National Assembly, Hon. Moses Masika Wetang'ula, described the granting of the Charter that makes TU a fully fledged university a “momentous milestone”. 

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Hon. Wetang’ula said that it was a “great honor to celebrate this momentous milestone”.

Referring to TU’s educational philosophy, “Teaching Minds, Touching Hearts, Transforming Lives”, he explained, “The attainment of the University Charter for Tangaza University is a significant achievement in the institution's journey towards academic excellence, research and community service, which embodies Tangaza university's philosophy.”

In the speech that was read out by the Member of Parliament for Homabay Town Constituency, Hon. Peter Opondo Kaluma, Hon. Wetang’ula added, “Tangaza University has established itself as one of the leading institutions of higher learning in the country dedicated to nurturing future servant leaders. The granting of the University Charter is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and vision of the university's leadership.”

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“It is a recognition of the institution's commitment to providing quality education and making a meaningful impact on the lives of his students and the community at large,” the Speaker further said.

He went on to laud the educational philosophy of TU, saying, “The university's philosophy is deeply rooted in the rich tradition of the Catholic Church and has caused the importance of nurturing not just the mind but also the character, emphasizing the integral development of each person.” 

TU, Hon. Wetang'ula said, “believes in fostering a learning environment that not only imparts knowledge, but also cultivates moral values and a sense of social responsibility."

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“The university’s focus on academic excellence, research and community service aligns perfectly with the values that we as a nation strive to uphold and it is encouraging to see an institution that not only imparts knowledge but also instills the spirit of service and leadership among its students,” he said.

The Kenyan Speaker continued, “We celebrate the culmination of years of tireless efforts and the beginning of a new chapter in the life of Tangaza University. This Charter award signifies the university's transition to a new level of academic and institutional maturity, empowering it to expand its reach, diversify its programs, and deepen its impact on the community.”

He called upon TU students to “embrace the values of excellence, integrity and service that Tangaza University instills in you and use your knowledge and skills to make a positive difference in the larger world.”

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Addressing himself to TU faculty, he said, “Your dedication and commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders is truly commendable. You are the backbone of this institution and your tireless efforts have paved the way for this momentous achievement.”

“As we celebrate this milestone, let us reiterate our collective vision to be a university distinguished for academic excellence, service orientation and steadfast commitment to social transformation, guided by Catholic social teachings,” Hon. Wetang'ula, a Catholic, emphasized.

May the granting of the Charter, he implored, “be the beginning of a new era of excellence, innovation and service for the institution, the university fraternity and the community, and our nation, Kenya.”

Credit: Institute of Social Communication - Tangaza University

The May 2 Charter award was the culmination of the process that started way back in 2013 following the change in the regulations around the governance of universities and constituent colleges as stipulated in Kenya’s University Act, 2012.  

Established in 1986 as Theological Centre of Religious with the aim to form members of ICLSAL for ministry in the Church and society in Africa, TU was blessed and formally inaugurated on 30 October 1987 by the Servant of God Maurice Michael Cardinal Otunga, then Archbishop of Nairobi.

Karen-based TU is a culturally diverse institution of higher learning with faculty and students from well over 40 countries and more than 100 ICLSAL.