As industries evolve rapidly and technology continues to reshape the workplace, parents are increasingly seeking clarity on how universities are preparing students for future success. This was the focus of the Strathmore Institute of Mathematical Sciences (SIMS) annual third-year parents’ seminar, held on 29^th May 2026. The SIMS team, led by Faculty Manager, Mr. Cyrus Muthumbi, alongside guest speaker Evans Mugi, the CEO of  Vision Capital Group (VCG), engaged parents in a discussion on career prospects, curriculum relevance, international exposure, and student development.

The session provided parents with an opportunity to raise concerns about employability in a challenging economic environment. In response, the speakers emphasized that meaningful opportunities remain available for students who actively invest in their personal and professional development. They highlighted professional certifications as a key differentiator in the job market.

“I think the most important thing is to show some progress. This could be registering because the course is in demand,” said Mr. Mugi.

Parents also sought clarification on career flexibility and whether students would be limited to careers directly related to their degree programmes. Mr. Muthumbi described a degree as a starting point rather than a final destination, noting that graduates can transition into a variety of industries regardless of their major. Mr. Mugi echoed this view, describing the university experience as a gateway to global opportunities.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) featured prominently in the discussion. Parents questioned how Strathmore University is preparing students for a future increasingly influenced by AI. Mr. Muthumbi explained that curriculum reviews are conducted in consultation with industry stakeholders to ensure programmes remain relevant.

Rather than viewing AI as a threat, students are encouraged to embrace it as a tool for improving productivity, automating repetitive tasks, and enhancing analytical capabilities.

“AI will not replace smart people, but smart people will leverage AI to improve or increase their output,” noted Mr. Mugi. Parents were encouraged to support students in pursuing AI certification courses to strengthen their competitiveness in the job market.

The conversation also explored the importance of practical exposure. Parents suggested that the institution could play a greater role in facilitating internship opportunities. Mr. Muthumbi explained that while SIMS maintains partnerships with leading organisations, including KPMG, Deloitte, PwC, and BCG, the institution operates on a philosophy of freedom and responsibility.

“We believe in freedom and responsibility; therefore, when opportunities arise, we share them and students choose whether to pursue them or not,” he said.

Parents also sought clarity on international academic trips and global learning experiences. Dr. Elvice Ongonga, the academic director at SIMS, explained that these trips are carefully aligned with academic programmes and designed to provide meaningful learning experiences. To make these opportunities accessible, the university seeks to cover major travel expenses, including visas, insurance, accommodation, and transport, through existing school fees.

Dr. Ongonga noted that every fourth-year student participates in an academic trip designed to motivate students, enrich their learning experience and give them a global perspective.

The seminar reinforced SIMS’ commitment to strengthening collaboration between parents, students, and industry while preparing graduates to thrive in a changing global economy.

Article written by Maitethia Doreen, Communications Administrator, Strathmore Institute of Mathematical Sciences.