The year is 2020. Covid-19 struck and swept the globe, halting life as we knew it. Streets once bustling with life now laid deserted, echoing the eerie silence of an uncertain era. As society and the world adapted, the transition to virtual platforms became the new norm, with classrooms and the workspace migrating to the digital realm. Masks became our constant companions, shielding us from an invisible threat, while the concept of social distancing reshaped our interactions. What a time that was!

Amidst everything happening, the high school graduates were eagerly excited to flip into a new page in their life: university life. Yet, beneath their excitement lingered a sense of uncertainty. How would learning unfold in this new era? Would virtual classes be as engaging as in-person ones? The pandemic loomed large, casting a shadow over their anticipated journey. Yet, despite it all, they were eager to flip the page and dive into this new chapter of their lives.

The April, June and September 2020 Intake rolled around, Strathmore University welcomed its new students virtually, the #ClassOf2024. Their freshmen orientation unfolded in the digital realm, and so did their classes with each student equipped with a laptop and data bundles: their journey was flagged off for them to become the next generation of change agents of society.

Fast forward to mid 2021 when the University opened its gates, allowing students to return to campus after what felt like an eternity. A surreal moment for many, as they stepped onto the grounds, finally meeting their classmates in person for the first time. For some, it was also their first glimpse of the state-of-the-art facilities that Strathmore University had to offer. Campus buzzed with activity, yet safety remained a top priority, with mandatory masking up, frequent sanitization, and social distancing measures in place. Each classroom was stocked with hand sanitizer, ensuring a hygienic learning environment conducive to academic growth.

The Final Chapter: Graduation Celebrations

Four years have flown by, and now graduation is here. They’re eager to bid farewell to this chapter of their lives. Each School held gala dinners, celebrating their “Last Supper” on campus —a symbolic gathering that marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter. Over sumptuous meals and enchanting music, the atmosphere was a blend of nostalgia and excitement. Amidst the festivities, they took moments to reminisce about their favourite classes, best moments on campus, and unforgettable experiences. Lecturers, graduate assistants, and administrators joined in, adding a proud and supportive presence to the celebrations.

Time to tassle

On the morning of June 28th, proud parents, siblings, and relatives walked side by side with their graduates. The air resonated with jubilant ululations as they revelled in the significant milestone their loved ones had accomplished. The choir, in their melodious harmony, sang their hearts out, prompting students and parents to stand and dance to the rhythm.

Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Vice Chancellor, Strathmore University, posed thoughtful questions to the graduates: “What are you walking away with from Strathmore University after four years? What can you do in service to society?” These questions urged the graduates to reflect on their future plans.  “As you graduate, you are leaving with a toolbox of values and skills. With your unique combination of knowledge, experience, and compassion, you have the power to make a positive impact around the world,” encouraged Maya Shah, Valedictorian and BA in International Studies Graduate, to the #ClassOf2024 as they looked forward to the future and aimed to excel in their various endeavours. “Carry the torch of excellence, integrity, and service that defines Strathmore University. Your journey is just beginning, and the world awaits the remarkable contributions only you can make.” Rev. Dr. Silvano Ochuodho chimed in with words of encouragement to the graduates.

From PhDs to Master’s to undergraduate students, each stood eagerly, awaiting their turn to hear their names read aloud and their degrees confirmed. Proud parents, faculty and friends too, beside them ululated joyfully, celebrating this moment as a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Awards and accolades to the #ClassOf2024

The Academic Excellence Award celebrates the best overall students in each Faculty/School who have excelled in their university examinations over the past four years. The awardees are as follows:

🏅 Strathmore University Business School Academic Excellence Award –  Ishwin Kaur

💻 School of Computing and Engineering Sciences Academic Excellence Award: Jean Gloria Wasike! 

📊 Strathmore Institute of Mathematical Sciences honours Elvis Likoko Wanasunia 

⚖️ Strathmore Law School proudly awarded Amelia Achieng Midwa the Academic Excellence Award

🏨 School of Tourism and Hospitality Academic Excellence Award goes to Nicole Akoth Akech

📚 School of Humanities and Social Sciences recognizes Rukudzo Jubilee Zimunya with the Academic Excellence Award for exceptional dedication and performance.

Congratulations to all our Academic Excellence Award winners! Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off. #Classof2024 #DegreeKwaMfuko #GoPlacesWithSU #SUreFuture

🌟 For valiantly serving and transforming society, the Community Service Award was awarded to Constance Syombua! 

🎉 Honouring Strathletes Lilian Wesonga and Philip Mumo, recipients of the Sports Awards, for their exceptional sportsmanship and contributions to Strathmore University sports teams.

🌟 The Esther Kidambi Excellence in Service Award exemplifies selflessness, service with a smile, and consistency in self-giving. Congratulations to this year’s recipient, Samuel Gicheru Muchiri! 

Congratulations to Sharlene Dzambe Kapere, the recipient of the prestigious Chancellor’s Award for her outstanding leadership and academic excellence! Congratulations Wakili!

It’s #SUreFuture

And with that, the curtain falls on #SUGraduation2024. 🎓 A new chapter begins for the #ClassOf2024. Congratulations to all the graduates—your journey is just beginning! 

Stay connected with the University by joining Strathmore Connect and tapping into the various services and opportunities offered by the alumni office.

Article written by: Jemmy M. Kamau