Twenty scholars, two cohorts, KES 32.35 million, eight years; these statistics summarize the long-standing relationship between Strathmore University and I&M Bank.

In the year 2010, after a series of interviews, discussions and home visits, a group of ten scholars began their undergraduate journey at Strathmore University, courtesy of the generous I&M Bank scholarship programme. Four years later, an additional ten students were enrolled. The scholarship programme catered for the students’ full tuition fees, accommodation and stipend.

To celebrate this great milestone, in mid-June, Strathmore University Foundation (SUF) and Strathmore University’s Financial Aid Office hosted an event dubbed “It is because of you…” in honor of an eight year partnership with I&M Bank. The occasion was graced by twelve of the scholarship beneficiaries, the University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs, Director of University Relations and Communications, the Academic Registrar, the Director of Alumni Relations and Partnerships, I&M Bank CSR management officials and Financial-Aid staff, among others.

Joy Namasaka, Head of CSR at I&M Bank, while highlighting that education is their biggest social responsibility pillar, expressed immense pride towards the scholars. She was thankful for the 1st cohort and 2nd cohort of students that made them tremendously proud.

The scholarships’ impact is evident in beneficiaries who have worked at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch, KPMG, Centum, HHM, Kaplan, I&M Bank, Ernst & Young, ARM Cement, KRA and Saracen Media. Of those who have benefitted from the scholarship, four students have completed their Masters degrees from Stanford University (USA), London School of Economics (UK), Cass Business School (UK) and University of Tokyo (Japan) while three others have enrolled in various masters programmes. ​Their careers span across academia, actuarial science, banking, public relations, audit, journalism, risk management and entrepreneurship.

“This year I have crossed the other side of the bridge as a happy scholar of I&M Bank. I remember you adopting me and wanted only the best for me. Holding my hand and carrying me through this odyssey has been eventful. My family is happy too because I have lived up to their expectations and I have faithfully finished the race that was set before me,” said one of the scholars, Junior Omollo, an intern at Ernst and Young.

The scholars talked about the family and support system they created amongst themselves and how I&M Bank staff constantly provided academic and personal support. They have also received opportunities thanks to the scholarship programme and most, if not all, expressed their intent to carry forward this benevolent spirit.

Judith Nzisa, a Financial Analyst at ARM Cement PLC, “I am not sure about what the future holds. Maybe I will be the future Finance Manager of XY Company or CEO of AB Company or a policy maker. However, wherever you hear my name, I&M Bank and Strathmore University had something to do with this masterpiece. So, watch this space,”

The difference that I&M Bank continues to make on the lives of people, especially the bright and needy, is one to be applauded. Just like Clint Kuluthe, a fellow beneficiary and current I&M Bank staffer, who in his testimonial spoke of how he loves the difference, we hope the other beneficiaries continue to do the same.

On behalf of the scholars we say a big thank you to I & M Bank and Strathmore University and, in the words of the Director of Strathmore University Foundation, allow us to echo this quote.

“One day, we shall stand here with each scholar having impacted several other people in the world.”