The University of Eldoret is celebrating a landmark achievement following the election of Mercy Jeruto Chirchir as the Regional Chairperson of the inaugural TAGDev 2.0 Regional Student Leadership Council, marking a significant milestone in student leadership within the Transforming African Agricultural Universities to Meaningfully Contribute to Africa's Growth and Development (TAGDev 2.0) Programme.
Mercy secured victory after garnering 12 votes (52.2%), defeating fellow candidates Aminu Shehu Jangebe, who received 9 votes (39.1%), and Agaba Jonathan Minor, who garnered 2 votes (8.7%). Her election reflects the confidence that student representatives across the TAGDev 2.0 network have placed in her vision of inclusive, transparent, and collaborative leadership.
A second-year Bachelor of Science in Agriculture student at the University of Eldoret and a TAGDev 2.0 Cohort I scholar, Mercy has distinguished herself through her commitment to agricultural transformation, youth empowerment, and community service. She also serves as a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) instructor in Agriculture, where she mentors young people in practical agricultural skills while promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Known for her passion for inclusive leadership, Mercy has consistently advocated for equal opportunities for all scholars, including persons with disabilities, while championing human rights, diversity, and meaningful student participation. Throughout her campaign, she emphasized the importance of innovation, collaboration, integrity, and creating opportunities that enable every student within the TAGDev 2.0 network to thrive.
Receiving news of her election, Mercy expressed gratitude to the student representatives for entrusting her with the responsibility of leading the Regional Student Leadership Council.
"This victory belongs to every TAGDev scholar who believes in unity, inclusion, and collective leadership. I am honoured by the confidence placed in me and remain committed to serving with integrity, transparency, and purpose. Together, we will strengthen collaboration across our universities, amplify student voices, and create opportunities that empower young people to become leaders in transforming Africa's agrifood systems." she said.
Her election comes at a pivotal moment as the TAGDev 2.0 Programme continues to strengthen student engagement across participating universities in Africa. The regional student leadership council is expected to serve as a platform for fostering collaboration among scholars, promoting student led initiatives, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, and ensuring that student perspectives contribute meaningfully to programme implementation.
The elections also ushered in a diverse team of student leaders who will work alongside Mercy to advance the Council's agenda.
The newly elected TAGDev 2.0 Regional student leadership council comprises:
- Regional Chairperson: Mercy Chirchir – 12 votes (52.2%)
- Vice Chairperson: Adeleke Ogoutchemi – 12 votes (52.2%)
- Secretary General: Maitseo Monau – 23 votes (100%)
- Education & Community Engagement Officer: David Anahomah Asumang – 23 votes (100%)
- Welfare and Inclusion Officer: Nwati Nerville – 23 votes (100%)
- Entrepreneurship and Innovations Officer: Alae-Eddine Moumen – 13 votes (56.5%)
- Alumni Engagement Officer: Rosaline Chelangat – 23 votes (100%)
The election of this inaugural leadership team demonstrates the programme's commitment to nurturing young leaders capable of driving positive change within higher education institutions and across Africa's agrifood systems.
For the University of Eldoret, Mercy's election is a proud reflection of the institution's continued investment in developing transformational leaders equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to address the continent's agricultural challenges. Her achievement also underscores the impact of the TAGDev 2.0 Programme in empowering young people to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and change agents within their communities.
As Regional Chairperson, Mercy will lead efforts to strengthen engagement among TAGDev scholars across participating universities, foster intercultural collaboration among others.
The University of Eldoret congratulates Mercy Jeruto Chirchir and all the elected members of the inaugural TAGDev 2.0 Regional student leadership council and wishes them success as they embark on this important journey of service and leadership.