First Ever Riara University Students Association(RUSA) – Aspirants Debate
With a hotly contested, anxiously awaited RUSA elections only a week away, Riara University is setting the standards by trying something new on 16th October, 2014 Riara University Students Electoral Commission – RU – SEC held a debate for Presidential aspirants and Secretary generals aspirants. The debate held at the University grounds and moderate by Kenyan journalist Willis Raburu assisted by Quincy Kiptoo, and Camille Amolo who are both students of the university. It was a polite, somewhat halting start to a two hour marathon that gave the students a chance to judge their prospective leaders on their words and policies rather than on who they are – a rarity in a country where university politics has traditionally been intertwined with vote buying through alcoholism, and tribal identity.
The University VC, Professor Kiarie Mwaura, who as well participated in the debate, welcomed and supported the idea from the students’ electoral commission and acknowledged how impressive the transparency of the entire process was. The students governing council will work hand in hand with the Administration in their capacity as students’ leaders in the University’s effort of safeguarding students’ interests.