In 2004, I stepped onto the grounds of Strathmore University as a young, budding young man from a small village in Kitui, eager to embark on a transformative journey in famously known “Strathmore College” – mind you, it was already a university then. Thanks to the Guinness Scholarship (later the EABL Scholarship), I enrolled in the Bachelor of Commerce Programme under the then Faculty of Commerce (FOC). Over the years, FOC evolved into the School of Management and Commerce (SMC) and later merged with Strathmore Business School to form the Strathmore University Business School (SBS) we know today.
My academic journey took off following my completion of the Master of Commerce (MCOM) degree at Strathmore University in 2010. As one of the pioneer Graduate Assistants, I gained valuable insights not only as a student but also as an administrator for the MCOM Programme during the period 2010-2012. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for academia – teaching, research, and the endless opportunities availed that were impactful to many lives.
My calling became even clearer when I reflected on a pivotal experience after high school, where I returned to my alma mater to mentor students way back in 2004 before joining Strathmore. This planted a lifelong seed: I wanted to be an academic who not only imparted knowledge but also engaged in meaningful research and societal development.
In 2012, I briefly stepped away from Strathmore to broaden my horizons and joined the auditing world. At KPMG East Africa’s Risk Consulting – Forensic Services section, I delved into forensic investigations while simultaneously pursuing a PhD in Business Administration. By the time I completed my PhD studies in 2016, I was back at Strathmore, taking on the role of Student Research Coordinator at the Business School between 2014 and 2016. In this capacity, I contributed to developing tools like the feedback review form I see being used to this day!
In 2016, I faced a new challenge: serving as the Faculty Director at SBS. Leading a team of esteemed faculty members, including those who once taught me, required humility, mentorship, and a clear vision aligned to the Business School’s vision and aspirations. When SBS integrated with the SMC in 2018, I was honored to serve on the integration committee. This unique experience allowed me to draw on my experience in both schools during the integration phase.
Post-integration, I was entrusted with overseeing the undergraduate section. Here, we achieved remarkable milestones, including the revamp of the Bachelor of Commerce curriculum and the introduction of two innovative and future-fit undergraduate Programmes: the Bachelor of Financial Services and the Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Operations Management. It was gratifying to witness steady student growth, even during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which tested our resilience and adaptability.
In December 2023, I transitioned into my current role as Associate Dean, Academics and Student Affairs at SBS which I have held to date. This new position comes with broader responsibilities, but I embrace them with gratitude and the knowledge that I am continuing to attain as I serve.
My journey at Strathmore University has been nothing short of extraordinary – a story of persistence, learning, and unwavering dedication. As I reflect on this path, I am reminded of the words from Luke 12:48: “Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”
It is with this spirit that I look forward to the future, ready to contribute even more to the Strathmore community and beyond as we work round the clock to spearhead Africa’s transformation.
David Mathuva
Associate Dean, Academics and Student Affairs, Strathmore University Business School
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