Integrity calls take centre stage at Islamic University of Kenya graduation

Calls for upholding integrity and maintaining Islamic ethics featured prominently during the 3rd graduation ceremony of the Islamic University of Kenya, held over the weekend.

In a world where unethical and disreputable practices are increasingly becoming normalized, speakers emphasized the need to remain firmly grounded in Islamic ethics, moral behavior, and mutual understanding—principles they said are essential in cultivating honesty and driving national prosperity.

“Nation-building is not only about acquiring knowledge but gaining an understanding of the essence of life—that prosperity must be guided by principles and leadership must be guided by legitimacy and integrity,” said Chancellor Ambassador Mohamed Mahat.

While acknowledging that knowledge is an essential part of career development, he reminded students to hold firm to the faith and values they acquired throughout their years of study, saying these would be instrumental in their future success.

“As you enter the dynamic and rapidly changing world, remember that it demands more than intelligence. It demands wisdom, humility, purposeful action, continuous learning, and above all, seeking the pleasure of Allah,” he said.

Echoing his remarks, Garissa Governor Nathif Jama—who served as the chief guest—praised the university’s emphasis on ethics, noting that it cultivates moral integrity in society and strengthens educational excellence across the country.

“In an era where knowledge must be firmly rooted in values, the university stands out for placing moral integrity and social responsibility at the centre of its mission,” he said.

The governor commended the institution’s unique academic programmes, notably the Higher Diploma in Qur’anic Hidayat, saying it reflects the university’s commitment to intellectual development as well as its efforts to foster spiritual enrichment within the ummah. The course is offered through academic collaboration with the Makkah Center for Qur’anic Guidance.

Sheikh Muhammad Osman and Ambassador Muhammad Mahat presents a plaque to the Garissa Governor Nathif Jama

In his advice to students, Governor Jama reminded them that success is not measured solely by personal achievements but also by the impact they have on others. “Hold on to your values, honour your faith, and strive always to be sources of light wherever you go,” he said.

Emphasizing that the university’s principles are firmly grounded in ethics, Vice Chancellor Mohammed Abdinoor Dahir said the institution aims to shape students with values that will guide them in all aspects of life long after graduation. “The theme of this year’s graduation demonstrates that institutions rise through integrity, communities thrive through justice, and nations are strengthened by ethical leaders. At IUK, we believe education without ethics is incomplete,” he said.

University founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Sheikh Muhammad Osman, said that although the university is built on a strong Islamic foundation, it remains open to people of all faiths—one of its guiding principles in promoting understanding and fostering national unity.

“Don’t be dissuaded by the name; this university welcomes even non-Muslims, and we treat them with dignity guided by Islamic teachings,” he said.

Addressing the students, Sheikh Muhammad emphasized that education is a sacred trust and urged the graduands to uphold integrity, noting that it will shape their success in future endeavours.

In his remarks, Wajir South MP Mohammed Adow praised the university for its contribution to societal development and its ongoing support for community initiatives.

Through a strategic partnership, he said, the university is helping address the critical teachers’ shortage in Wajir County, where more than 80 students have been enrolled to pursue teacher training studies. The first batch of 49 students is expected to graduate next year and join the teaching profession, boosting education development in the county.

“This is our university. If it is to grow from strength to strength as a premier institution of learning and research, it requires our support,” he said.

The graduation ceremony was presided over by Chancellor Ambassador Mohamed Mahat. In total, 447 students were awarded degrees, diplomas, and certificates in various fields of study, including Sharia, Islamic studies, Arabic, business management, education, and qiraat (Qur’an recitation).

The students were drawn from several countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Rwanda, DR Congo, and Burundi, among others.

Prominent personalities at the event included Indonesian Ambassador to Kenya Witjaksono Adji, Somalia’s envoy to Kenya Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, acting Chief Kadhi Sheikh Sukyan Hassan Omar, Majlis Ulamaa Chairman Sheikh Khalfan Khamis, Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo, and former Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala.

The event was broadcast live through Jamia TV.