Strathmore’s core value of lifelong learning was on full display on Saturday, 21st March 2026, as the Alumni Association (SUAA) hosted the graduation ceremony for the first cohort of the Personal Finance Management (PFM) Series. This event was held at the university’s Sir Thomas More Building and marked the conclusion of an intensive six-week financial literacy programme, delivered through weekly Saturday sessions, covering topics like financial goal setting, income generation, budgeting, investing, debt management, wealth protection, and retirement planning all aimed at engaging  alumni participants with knowledge and skills for wealth creation and long term financial stability.

The ceremony brought together a dynamic and diverse group of alumni participants: with corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, public sector workers, academics, healthcare practitioners, and early-career professionals. For many, it was their first opportunity to meet in person after  weeks of virtual learning, adding a sense of connection and celebration to the occasion . The event commenced with an opening prayer led by Muhammad in honour of Eid al-Fitr, setting a reflective and inclusive tone. An engaging ice breaker session followed, where alumni present interacted, connected and enjoyed a light, fun moment.
The atmosphere throughout was warm and vibrant reflecting not only their shared journey of learning but also the strong sense of community among the alumni. It created a space where participants could celebrate their achievements, exchange experiences and strengthen networks that extend beyond the programme.

Kalekye Mwaniki, Manager,Alumni Relations, spoke about the Alumni Wellness Program, emphasising that Strathmore’s commitment to its graduates extends well beyond academic life to their financial well-being. She also introduced the upcoming Personal Finance Management Advanced Series, the Advanced Blueprint to Financial Freedom, starting on the 16th of May, which will build on the foundation established in the PFM series.

A key highlight of the ceremony was a programme  recap by course facilitator Stephen Kagiri of Ecobank Kenya Limited. He revisited key topics from the program, including understanding one’s true net worth, building a financial safety net, mastering debt, and adopting disciplined wealth-building strategies. The interactive Q&A session that followed addressed real-life financial challenges that faced the participants.  Discussions ranged from navigating Black Tax, which is the cultural expectation to financially support extended family, managing finances within marriage, building sustainable side hustles, and making informed investment decisions through proper due diligence and risk assessment.

Elias Kaburu, the Director of Alumni Relations, shared the association’s vision for sustained alumni engagement.  Eric Saulo, Director of Partnerships, emphasised the demonstration of the university’s core values of excellence, lifelong learning, and personalized attention. Robert Githaiga, the head of Digital Banking at Ecobank Kenya Limited, shared some insights on the evolving role of digital banking in personal finance.

A total of 50 graduates were recognized for successfully completing the program with certificates  presented by representatives from the university and Ecobank. A memorable moment for everyone was when a couple received their certificates together, highlighting their shared commitment to building a strong financial legacy for their family.

The event was closed with a group photo session and a celebratory lunch, marking not just the end of the programme but a transformative experience that empowered participants to make informed financial decisions moving forward.

Article written by: Janet Ochola and Natalia Buhasio.