Kaimosi Friends University Vice Chancellor Prof.Peter Mwita (seated,centre) together with other senior officials in a group photo.

Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) has been inaugurated as a Presidential Award-Kenya (PA-K) Centre, marking a new chapter in the institution’s commitment to youth empowerment and environmental conservation.

The colourful ceremony held under the theme “Greening through the Award” drew senior officials including Vice Chancellor Prof. Peter Mwita, PA-K Chief Executive Margaret Kiogora, Board Director Anne Chelangat, KenGen’s  Amos Mbutu, Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Fred Amimo, representatives from the National Youth Service, staff, students, and community stakeholders.

In his keynote address, Prof. Mwita linked the tree-planting exercise to the broader mission of education. “As we plant these seedlings, we are not only sowing trees, but seeds of hope, vision, and resilience,” he said.

To mark the inauguration, 10,000 seedlings donated by KenGen were planted on campus. The university has set an annual target of 70,000 seedlings, a goal that cements its position as a driver of climate action in the region.

Kiogora underscored the role of the PA-K programme in preparing young people for life beyond academics. “The Award’s four pillars; skills, service, recreation, and adventure, equip youth to thrive in today’s world while giving back to society,” she said.

The designation of KAFU as a PA-K Centre strengthens the link between education, leadership, and environmental stewardship. With thousands of trees expected to take root each year, the university is positioning itself as a model of sustainability in higher learning.