Department of History, Archaeology and Political Studies

The Department of History, Archaeology and Political Studies is an academic department dedicated to the study of history, archaeology, cultural heritage, societies, politics, governance, and contemporary social transformations.

The Department promotes quality teaching, innovative research, critical inquiry, and community engagement. It equips students with critical thinking, analytical, research, and professional skills to understand the past and present, preserve cultural heritage, and contribute to good governance, peace, sustainable development, and social transformation in Kenya, Africa, and the wider world.

The Department offers courses through both face-to-face and virtual modes of learning, including Digital Learning. It serves on-campus and off-campus students from Kenya and other parts of the world, providing a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

International Collaboration and Exchange Programmes

The Department has a vibrant international exchange programme that has attracted students from France, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Germany, Poland, the United States, and other countries.

Staff exchange is also an integral part of the Department's international engagement. Staff have participated in exchange visits and academic collaborations with institutions in the United Kingdom, United States, South Africa, France, Hungary, Türkiye, Poland, and other countries.

These partnerships provide opportunities for academic exchange, collaborative research, knowledge sharing, professional development, and cross-cultural learning, while strengthening the Department's contribution to global scholarship and internationalisation.

Vision, Mission, Identity and Philosophy Statements

The following statements guide the operations, academic activities, strategic direction, and procedures of the Department.

Vision Statement

To be a leading centre of excellence in History, Archaeology and Political Studies in Africa, renowned for transformative teaching, innovative research, cultural heritage preservation, and impactful engagement that advances knowledge, good governance, peace, and sustainable development.

Mission Statement

To advance knowledge through quality teaching, innovative research, and community engagement in History, Archaeology, and Political Studies for sustainable development and social transformation in Africa.

Identity Statement

A dynamic centre of excellence dedicated to understanding Africa’s history, heritage, politics, and society through innovative teaching, research, and community engagement.

Philosophy Statement

 The Department is committed to promoting a socially just, inclusive, and gender-responsive society founded on the principles of gender equity, equality, diversity, and respect for all. Through teaching, research, and community engagement, the Department seeks to advance critical understanding, preserve cultural heritage, promote good governance, and contribute to sustainable social transformation.

Objectives of the Department

General Objective

To advance excellence in teaching, research, heritage preservation, and community engagement in History, Archaeology, and Political Studies, while developing critical and professionally competent graduates who contribute to knowledge, good governance, cultural preservation, peace, and sustainable development in Africa and beyond.

Specific Objectives

• Promote research and knowledge creation that addresses historical, archaeological, political, and contemporary African issues.
• Provide quality and innovative education in History, Archaeology, and Political Studies at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Preserve and promote Africa’s cultural heritage through archaeological research, documentation, conservation, and public engagement.
• Develop critical, ethical, and professionally competent graduates equipped with research, analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Promote good governance, peace, democracy, and social justice through teaching, research, policy engagement, and community outreach.
• Strengthen partnerships and community engagement with academic, government, cultural, and development institutions to contribute to sustainable development in Africa

Core Functions of the Department 

• Teaching and Learning – Provide quality education and professional training in History, Archaeology, and Political Studies.
• Research and Innovation – Generate and disseminate knowledge through scholarly research and innovative inquiry.
• Heritage Preservation and Community Engagement – Preserve Africa’s cultural heritage and engage communities in addressing societal challenges.
• Professional and Policy Development – Develop skilled graduates and provide expertise that informs governance, public policy, peace, and sustainable development.