“Degree ni Harambee” (obtaining a degree involves a communal effort). These were the words of Paul Ochieng, Dean of Students, as he addressed mentors on Friday afternoon, February 21, while tackling the topic “Stratizens and their needs”. In discussing their needs, the Dean of Students said, “Mentors are the wind beneath their mentees wings as the latter glide through their Strathmore journey.”

The Strathmore University mentoring office hosted the Mentors’ Seminar focusing on “Student

Trends and the Place of the Mentor”. The topics tackled included creative ways to get through to the young and vibrant Stratizen, peer pressure, relationships and the social anxiety that stems from technology.

Primarily, mentoring is a meeting place for lecturers and students, whose aim is the integral formation of the students. It makes sure that, apart from being trained professionally, students also acquire the personal qualities and the necessary preparation to be responsible citizens, with values such as good conduct and hard work.

During the seminar, exceptional mentors, reflected through the AMS logs, were recognized.

Among them were: Daniel Kiilu, Patrick Shabaya, Ruby Kimondo, Jerusha Maruti, Dr. Peter Kwenjera and Eunice Maingi.  Dr. John Mutisya, Director, Mentoring Services, mentioned his department is working on acquiring a better platform to ensure that they are effective in gauging the performance of mentors and ensuring that all students take advantage of the mentoring experience.

Mr. Ochieng showcased exceptional students in academics, sports, and clubs such as debates.

Citing Jeff Murerwa, top of the 2019 graduating class and currently a Junior Associate at Boston

Consulting Group (BCG), Mr. Ochieng pointed out that Stratizens are top achievers. However, they also encounter difficulties. He pointed out, for instance, that the journey of the international student can be daunting as they integrate into a new culture and country; mentors are there to help these students integrate into the Strathmore community. Some of the other areas mentors can help students are how to make ethical career decisions, helping them cope better with mental health and encouraging them to open up as their growth is in their hands.

“As a mentor you are an ‘influencer’. You are a voice that affirms the student that they are going to make it. This in the end helps Stratizens become mature and responsible citizens. You can influence the next generation by joining the over 200 faculty, administrative and part-time staff in this great venture,” said Celestine Kanjama, Ag. Associate Manager, Mentoring Services department.

 

This article was written by Annete Karanja. 

If you have a story, kindly email: communications@strathmore.edu