The recently concluded Annual Staff Seminar and Team Building event at Kabarak University, held from 23rd to 25th April 2025, was a resounding success. The three-day program, designed to inspire professional growth and foster teamwork, brought together staff members from across the university for a series of enriching sessions and collaborative activities.
The seminar kicked off at the University Auditorium with a lineup of distinguished speakers, including Pastor Robert Burale, Ms. Sarah Munyi, and Rev. Joseph Obwanda. The sessions covered a wide range of topics aimed at personal and professional development. Pastor Burale opened with a powerful discussion on effective communication, emphasizing the importance of clarity and confidence in public speaking and workplace interactions.
Ms. Sarah Munyi followed with engaging workshops on personal branding and emotional intelligence, helping staff understand how to project professionalism and build stronger relationships. The highlight of the seminar was Rev. Joseph Obwanda’s session on transformational and ethical leadership, where he shared insights on values-based decision-making, drawing inspiration from leaders like Wangari Maathai and John Githongo.
One of the most memorable moments was the discussion on the mindset of ongoing growth, where Rev. Obwanda compared Kabarak’s educational philosophy to Finland’s world-renowned system. He stressed the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and excellence, quoting Socrates: "Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel."
The final day shifted to the University Field, where staff participated in team-building exercises, wellness activities, and health check-ups. The Liaison Group led energizing physical activities, while partners provided free medical screenings and pension scheme sensitization. The day was filled with laughter, teamwork, and a renewed sense of camaraderie.
The event concluded with inspiring words from Vice Chancellor Prof. Henry K. Kiplangat, who urged staff to "exceed, surpass, and be outstanding" in their roles. He reinforced the university’s commitment to Biblical Christian values and academic excellence, aligning with Kabarak’s vision for the future.
Key takeaways from the seminar included:
- Embrace a growth mindset to adapt to changing educational demands.
- Lead with ethics and integrity, ensuring values guide every decision.
- Foster teamwork and collaboration to strengthen the university community.
The seminar not only equipped staff with new skills but also strengthened bonds across departments. As Kabarak University continues its journey toward excellence, the lessons from this event will undoubtedly inspire greater innovation, leadership, and unity among its staff.