The Mountain Journal
Five students who graduated with PhDs from Mount Kenya University (MKU) last week said the journey to achieve their dreams was full of challenges, but they appreciate the support they got to accomplish it.
Benson Nyamweya Omwario, Amos Andama Nyamoko, Susan Wanjiku Mugo, Lilian Lwaya Elijah and Loise Kuria Nyakeru, said only a few people graduate with PhDs, and it was lucky they reached their desired destination in education while many failed.
In an interview they said they graduated after undergoing a more rigorous scholarship process and burning midnight oil.
During the graduation Dr Julius Kipngetich, the Group CEO of Jubilee Holdings Ltd was the chief guest and who challenged the youth to be respective and remain focused.
Photo/ Mount Kenya University (MKU) Chancellor, Prof John Struthers conferring a Phd to one of the student during the graduation ceremony.
He pleaded with the graduates to be change agents and be of benefit to those in the neighbourhood.
“ Let those in the companies, farms and those around you, in offices, homes, colleagues, community, constituents, feel the benefit from you.Mentor someone. Make room for someone. Build systems that do not only serve you,” he said.
Benson Nyamweya Omwario, “My journey toward a PhD in finance at Mount Kenya University has been demanding, yet deeply rewarding. The rigorous coursework, comprehensive examinations, and thesis process sharpened my critical and analytical thinking.”
Nyamoko said it took resilience and collaboration with faculty, management and other stakeholders.
“My scholarly journey at MKU has been transformational and inspiring. ICT backed learning made it exciting, ” he said.
Susan Wanjiku Mugo said got the privilege to consult with industry experts, academia, senior executives, government officials, entrepreneurs and manufacturers that helped her gain confidence, and understand work related dynamics.
“My experience and academic journey at MKU proved to be enlightening and rewarding thus in my thesis I got overwhelming support,” said Mugo.
Lwaya on her part said, “My doctoral journey in Development Studies has been both taxing and deeply fulfilling. With Development being such a complex practical and scholarly discourse, the academic and research process called for profound rigour and resilience.”
MKU Vice-Chancellor Prof Deogratius Jaganyi said the institution is transforming postgraduate education through a learner-centred model that integrates research, mentorship, scholarly engagement and publication in peer-reviewed indexed journals, says the.
“The approach seeks to produce competent researchers, innovators and thought leaders capable of addressing local and global challenges,” he said.
Dr Julius Kipngetich planting a tree at the university when he was the Chief Guest during the graduation ceremony
