The Co-operative University of Kenya (CUK) organized a comprehensive retreat for its Governing Council and University Management Board (UMB) at PrideInn Flamingo from 21 to 25 September 2026. Designed to align the university’s top leadership on critical strategic initiatives, the gathering was guided by the central theme of “Strengthening Governance, Strategic Leadership and Sustainable Resource Mobilisation for Institutional Growth and Impact”. The retreat opened with welcoming remarks from Dr Jeremy Bundi, Chairperson, University Council, and Prof. Kamau Ngamai, Vice Chancellor, establishing a collaborative foundation for a week of intensive reflection and strategic planning.
Throughout the workshop, the leadership team focused on four core objectives that are crucial to the institution’s future trajectory. Participants actively reviewed the progress of previous resolutions while working to strengthen governance, strategic leadership, and alignment between the Council and Management to ensure enhanced institutional performance. The retreat placed a heavy emphasis on exploring sustainable resource mobilization, investment opportunities, and alternative financing models to support the University’s long-term growth and financial sustainability. To solidify the university’s operational integrity, the leadership also sought to enhance institutional compliance and accountability through strengthened legal, data protection, and policy governance frameworks.
To effectively tackle these ambitious goals, the program featured a robust lineup of presentations and interactive sessions facilitated by leading industry experts. Dr James Njagu, a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), guided vital reflections and strategy formulation regarding the university’s resource mobilization journey, while Dorothy Gacheri delivered detailed appraisals focused on finance and investment. Recognizing the essential human element in effective leadership, Vicky Karuga from Profiles International TMS Ltd. led in-depth sessions on self-awareness and emotional intelligence in management. On matters of governance and finance, Brian Odongo from Kiptinness Odhiambo & Associates LLP addressed legal compliance, policy formulation, impact assessment, and data protection, while Dorcas Koome from the PPP Directorate, within the National Treasury, explored the viability of Public-Private Partnerships as alternative financing models.
The week-long retreat strongly underscored CUK’s dedication to continuous improvement, reflecting its identity as an institution deeply committed to empowering communities. The event will conclude on Friday, September 25, 2026, with a dedicated Council reflection session, leaving the university’s leadership well-equipped to execute strategic resolutions and drive lasting institutional impact, especially as CUK ventures into the next development planning period of 2026-2026.
