Start hustling while in Campus. The billionaires started their business journeys while in campus. The habits you form now will help you later in future. Don’t close yourself from the outside word. There are lots of opportunities for growth. This was the message to the First Years Class of 2024/2025 as delivered by Prof. James Njihia, Dean, Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, University of Nairobi.
The Dean was addressing First Years today, August 21, 2024 at the New Lecture Theatre.
Prof. Njihia cautioned students against engaging in bad practices that could be detrimental to their academic journey while in campus. Such activities like engaging in alcohol and drug abuse, violence, destruction of University property. The Dean encouraged students to follow the University rules especially exams regulations.
The University of Nairobi has produced many great leaders, many of them being Cabinet Secretaries, members of the Executive including the President and Deputy President, Judges in the Judiciary, I encourage you to join our Alumni, after completing your studies, he equipped.
What’s the purpose of a degree?
The world does not owe you a job after completing your degree. The purpose of the University education is to broaden your mind, so that you are better prepared for the world. He told students to take advantage of student exchange programs with other universities in Europe, Asia and America.
The Dean of Students, Dr. James Thayu Ngige encouraged students from humble backgrounds, especially those with difficulties in paying school fees, to seek help. There are a few scholarship opportunities and bursaries for needy students. He encouraged students to join professional bodies, form networks and focus on their studies. “It is difficult and painful to see students being buried, please avoid risky behavior” he said.
He also added that as the Office of Dean of Students, they offer career services, career fairs and career guidance. They help students prepare for the job market, prepare resume.
Dr. Thomas Ombati, Chairman, Department of Management Science and Project Planning, advised students to use their new found freedom accordingly. “You have freedom, you can use it or misuse it. Do the right thing. Get the best out of this environment. Be very disciplined, committed and very responsible. Don’t concentrate only on academia, we have sports as well. Think of networking with friends, colleagues. As you graduate after four years, you are all rounded”, he said.
Prof. Florence Muindi, Chairperson, Department of Business Administration told students that they are the most important stakeholders in the university and that without them, there is no university.
Dr. Reuben Kikwatha, Ag. Associate Dean, Undergraduate Studies and Operations, assured students that the faculty is here to fully support their academic journey. “Choose your friends wisely, so that you are not misled by wrong company,” he said. “Please belong to respective student associations. We shall give you the theory. The associations will mold you and help you network with the industry. We have many associations: Finance,Marketing, Operations Management, Accounts Association, Project Management Association among others” he said.
On his part, Dr. Don Bosco Kisimbi, observed that he is happy to teach the very best students in Kenya. He urged students to develop their leadership skills by taking part in elections. “Be involved in sports. I was captain of Hockey Team in 1995. Get in touch with student organizations. They shall help you get linked to industry. Don’t do drugs, do sports. This is a highly admired course. Congratulations and welcome to the University of Nairobi, Faculty of Business and Management Sciences,” he said.
The Faculty of Business and Management Sciences welcomes First Years Class of 2024/2025
