High school has ended. The bells have fallen silent, uniforms folded away, and a new season of life has begun, one marked by both excitement and uncertainty. For many students and families, this transition raises big questions: What career should I pursue? Which course will prepare me for the future? Which university will shape not only my skills, but my character?

It was at this moment of reflection and anticipation that Strathmore University opened its gates on January 24, 2026, for the Nairobi Open Day, welcoming students, parents and guardians to experience what the Strathmore journey truly entails.

From the moment guests arrived, they were warmly received by staff and student volunteers who guided them through exhibitions, campus tours, information desks and interactive sessions. Beyond brochures and rankings, visitors were invited to walk the campus, engage with faculty, meet current students and experience the living culture of Strathmore.

Charting a personal blueprint

The day began with an inspiring opening address by Mr Marcos Migeri, Director of Admissions Services, who challenged participants to take ownership of their future. He urged students to develop a personal blueprint for life, posing the question: “After today, will you be able to chart your own path?”

Mr Migeri encouraged them to think deeply about who they want to be, what they want to do and what they hope to achieve, while grounding their ambitions in strong personal values. He reminded them that self-worth, discipline and integrity are essential foundations, warning that university life often tests one’s principles, particularly through peer pressure, relationships and lifestyle choices.

“As you transition to campus, your values will be tested,” he noted, urging students to remain anchored in purpose and virtue.

Choosing a career in a changing world

This was followed by an engaging session on Factors to Consider When Choosing a Career by Mr Ian Wairua, who challenged students to look beyond grades and familiar paths, and instead focus on the future world of work. He encouraged participants to reflect on their interests, abilities and potential; available opportunities; training pathways; and what brings meaning and fulfilment.

Introducing the concept of “shifting sands”, Mr Wairua explained that careers, industries and technologies are constantly evolving. Students were urged to develop transferable skills, embrace lifelong learning and prepare for a future shaped by automation, data, the gig economy, creativity, empathy and human-machine collaboration.“You may think your choices are already made,” he said, “but by the time you graduate, the context will have changed.” His message was clear: be flexible, future-oriented and courageous enough to take the road less travelled.

Service, character and the Strathmore difference

The Open Day also showcased Strathmore’s strong culture of service and social responsibility. Mr Luis Borrallo, Director of Community Services, highlighted student involvement in initiatives such as building homes for the underprivileged, running medical camps, supporting sports teams, and serving children’s and elderly homes.

He also spoke about Macheo, an after-school empowerment programme supporting learners from underserved communities through mentoring, academic support and life-skills training—reflecting the University’s commitment to forming graduates who serve the common good.

Why Strathmore?

A parent and alumnus then shared his perspective on what sets Strathmore apart, citing quality education, discipline, safety, strong values, diversity and career-focused exposure. He emphasised that Strathmore does not merely produce graduates, but forms men and women of character, vision and purpose.

This message was reinforced by Prof Izael Da Silva, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation, who outlined the University’s four defining pillars: humanities, an enabling environment, service above self, and talent nurturing with strong industry engagement. These pillars, he explained, prepare students not only for employment, but for leadership, innovation and meaningful contribution to society.

Exploring possibilities

The day concluded with a lively Deans’ Panel Session, where academic leaders shared insights into their programmes, emerging career pathways and how students are prepared for both local and global opportunities. Parents and students then visited faculty stands and information tents, engaging directly with lecturers, admissions teams and current students. For many families, these interactions brought clarity, confidence and direction.

The Nairobi Open Day also marked the launch of Strathmore University’s nationwide Open Days Caravan, which will take the Strathmore experience to towns and cities across Kenya, including Mombasa, Machakos, Kisumu, Nakuru, Nyeri, Meru, Kakamega, Bungoma, Kitale, Murang’a, Kitui, Malindi and Voi, among others. At each stop, families will receive guidance on programmes, admissions, financing and scholarships.

This article was written by Yoweri Madowo and Briege Mwangi.