Patmoz
The Lake Side Caucus of student leaders representing universities across Kenya have extend their congratulations to the Raila Odinga for his commendable pursuit of the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship. The students noted that their commitment to social, political, and economic transformation for Kenyans is indelibly etched in the Kenyan and African history.
“We welcome you back home, cherishing our bond with you now and for generations to come. As budding scholars and leaders in our generation who have closely followed the issues as canvassed and understood by various nations and candidates, we are fully aware that multiple, complex external factors influenced the outcome of the AUC election, and it did not solely depend on Kenya’s exemplary efforts,” the students said.
The Caucus also echoed His Excellency President Ruto and the Right Honorable Raila Odinga in congratulating the winning candidate and reaffirmed their commitment in supporting the African Union’s mission of unity, peace, and prosperity for the continent.
In addition, the students thanked extend His Excellency, President Dr. William Ruto, for his unwavering support for Raila’s candidacy. They said “Once Baba threw his hat in the ring, the President mobilised government structures, starting with his personal efforts and that of his office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Security Agencies, the Kenyan Intelligence Community, Kenyan Diplomatic stations abroad which worked wonderfully leading to victory in the first four rounds. Indeed, we are proud that Kenya has made an indelible mark on the African Union and will continue to build on that incredible effort.”
In as far as advancing Pan-Africanism and student participation in the African Union, they urged the African Union to create mechanisms that actively involve university students in its work. This will not only cultivate Pan-Africanism at the grassroots level but also empower young Africans to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development.
The students challenged the African Union to establish formal mechanisms that allow university students to shadow AU officials and participate in its programs. Such initiatives will provide students with firsthand experience in continental governance and foster a deeper understanding of Pan-African ideals.
“By involving students in the AU’s work, we can nurture a new generation of leaders who are committed to the unity and progress of Africa,” their statement read.
In addition, the students suggested the creation of Pan-African University Forums and Digital Repositories which will serve as platforms for intellectual exchange, cultural dialogue, and the preservation of Africa’s rich history. “Specifically, we propose the creation of digital repositories that document the lives and contributions of African greats such as the founders of the OAU, Nelson Mandela, and contemporary leaders like Raila Odinga. These repositories should be accessible to students across the continent, enabling collaboration between institutions such as the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, the University of Cape Town, the University of Cairo, Kwame Nkrumah University, and Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar,” they reiterated.
Additionally, they envision these forums hosting virtual lectures by prominent African leaders and scholars, including Baba Raila Odinga, who can share their insights on democratic change, constitutional reform, and Pan-Africanism.
Furthermore, the students propose the creation of AU Centers for Democracy and Governance, to be situated in universities across the continent. These centers will honor the sacrifices of those who fought for Africa’s second liberation, particularly in the wake of the fall of the Berlin Wall. They will also serve as depositories of the lives and legacies of African greats, including the founders of the OAU, and will promote research, dialogue, and advocacy on democratic governance.
Historically, student governments have played a pivotal role in challenging colonial rule and authoritarian regimes across Africa. In the post-independence era, student movements have continued to advocate for democratic reforms and inclusive governance. By establishing these centers, the AU can empower students to play an even greater role in shaping the future of our continent.
In pursuit of these transformative proposals, the Lake Side Caucus of student leaders will be seeking an audience with President William Ruto, the Raila Odinga, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to seek their guidance and explore ways in which the reforms we propose can be adopted, improved, and escalated through diplomatic channels to the corridors of African Union power for implementation.
The students reiterated that with the support of the ational leadership, these initiatives can gain the necessary momentum to become a reality. Together, we can ensure that the voices of young Africans are heard and that our continent’s future is shaped by the ideals of unity, democracy, and progress.
The student leaders have affirmed their committed to advancing the ideals of Pan-Africanism and ensuring that the voices of young people are heard in the corridors of power.
