The Handover Ceremony: Celebrating Leadership Development and Collaboration

On a momentous day filled with gratitude and anticipation, stakeholders from across East Africa gathered to mark the handover of the Next Generation Leadership Programme (NGLP). This program, a brainchild of visionary discussions and dedicated collaboration, has been a transformative journey for church leaders and scholars across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Spearheaded by Strathmore University Business School (SBS) in partnership with Porticus Africa, NGLP has delivered on its promise to nurture impactful leadership in the African Church.

The Journey of NGLP

Dr. Freshia Waweru opened the ceremony by recounting the origins of the project. What began as a casual conversation over tea with the Executive Secretary in Kenya evolved into a structured program that bridged the gap between leadership theory and practice. Dr. Waweru recalled a pivotal moment in 2015 when she met Kemunto a representative from Porticus Africa during a Finance for Non-Finance training session. This connection ultimately brought Porticus Africa into the fold, leading to Strathmore University’s appointment as the knowledge partner for NGLP.

The program’s mission was clear: to enhance the leadership skills of existing and emerging church leaders through tailored training and support. Over six years, NGLP has developed three flagship programs, each tailored to the unique needs of its participants:

1. Executive Management Program
   This program targeted church leaders pursuing degrees, equipping them with essential management skills in areas such as financial management, HR, IT, and project management. A key feature was the “knowledge-to-action” project presentations, ensuring practical application of skills within their congregations.
2. Leadership Development Program
   Designed for alumni who graduated before 2018, this program introduced a new curriculum in 2022 focusing on innovation, organizational growth, and sustainability.
3. Senior Leadership Development Program
   Tailored for church superiors, this program addressed advanced leadership competencies critical for high-level decision-making.

A Collaborative Milestone

As the program transitioned to new hands, the event celebrated partnerships with institutions like the University of Kisubi, Tangaza University, Mwenge University, and Strathmore Global Institute Uganda. The day’s highlight was the formal handover of training materials, including manuals, course outlines, and slide decks.

Sr. Genevieve D’Silva, representing the NGLP Board, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the collaborative efforts that brought the program to fruition. She emphasized the positive impact on participants and reiterated the importance of accountability and sustainability in the program’s next phase. Similarly, Br. Vincent Basigye of Porticus Africa commended the meticulous organization of the project, encouraging the team at the University of Kisubi to embrace the challenge of sustaining and expanding the program.

Voices of Transformation

Participants shared personal reflections on the program’s impact:

• Violet: Described her journey as a transformative responsibility, committing to deliver impactful training with continued collaboration.
• Martin: Highlighted the importance of practical application, likening leadership to learning to swim—only practice solidifies understanding.
• Sentenza: Praised Strathmore’s innovative teaching methods, including technology integration and discussion groups, which he plans to implement.
• Br. Augustine: Found the finance sessions particularly enlightening and commended the faculty for their clear, relatable teaching style.

A Vision for the Future

Speakers like Mr. Antony Kahindi, University Secretary at Strathmore University, and Br. Deogratias, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kisubi, shared inspirational thoughts on the program’s legacy. Mr. Kahindi urged participants to emulate virtues of magnanimity, humility, and a landlord mindset—tackling challenges not just locally but for Africa and the world.

Br. Deogratias called on Kisubi to embrace its role as the program’s new custodian, ensuring its expansion and sustained impact. He underscored the importance of continued collaboration with Strathmore and other partners to achieve the broader mission of nurturing leaders for tomorrow.

Closing Remarks

The handover ceremony symbolized a seamless transition and a renewed commitment to leadership excellence. As the NGLP moves into its next chapter, it remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collaboration. With its robust foundation and a network of passionate stakeholders, the program is well-positioned to shape the future of leadership in Africa and beyond.