In a showcase of African leadership transformation, 284 executives from across Africa proudly received their certificates at the Strathmore University Business School (SBS) Executive Education Graduation ceremony.
These graduates are part of a remarkable cohort of over 2,785 executives (1288 male and 1228 female) trained by SBS this year, representing more than 25 African countries. From Kenya to Senegal, Tanzania to Côte d’Ivoire, SBS Executive Education alumni embody integrity, innovation, and purpose, driving progress and change across diverse sectors.
This milestone event coincided with the launch of SBS’s year-long 20th-anniversary celebrations, a tribute to two decades of cultivating ethical, visionary leaders dedicated to reshaping Africa’s future.
Under the theme “Leadership & Legacy: Redefining Your Impact,” the ceremony honored not only the personal achievements of the graduates but also the transformative power of leadership rooted in purpose, resilience, and a commitment to creating lasting impact.
Delivering a keynote address that resonated deeply with the graduating class, Major General Fatuma Ahmed, Commander of the Kenya Air Force, challenged the executives to embrace leadership that goes beyond authority. She emphasized the importance of leading with integrity, purpose, and heart, drawing a connection between individual actions and organizational success.
Major General Ahmed highlighted the critical role of leaders as listeners and collaborators, stating, “A leader should be a listener, who seeks counsel from peers and elevates their team to ensure success, thereby providing meaningful societal service.”
She urged the graduates to recognize their role as catalysts of change, emphasizing that effective leaders must improve attitudes and lift the spirits of those they lead. She added, “As a leader, you are a critical component of change in your organization. You need integrity to build trust and leave a legacy not just in physical structures but in the hearts of those you interact with.”
As a champion of professionalism and resource management, Major General Ahmed reminded the graduates of the necessity of resilience and adherence to organizational values. “You must develop resilience and remain true to the ethos and culture of your organization. And remember to celebrate milestones, no matter how small, as they are a testament to progress.”
Dr. Caesar Mwangi, Executive Dean SBS captured the essence of the day, stating, “This graduation is not merely the end of an academic journey but the beginning of a mission to shape Africa’s destiny in the corporate, public, and social spheres.”
He assured the graduates that SBS has forged meaningful partnerships and collaborations to foster deeper opportunities for them and their communities and help them achieve shared goals for Africa’s development.
The graduating class represented an array of programmes, including:
- Global CEO Africa Programme
- Advanced Management Programme
- Senior Management Leadership Programme
- Women Directors Leadership Programme
- Programme for Management Development
- Healthcare Management Programmes
- Executive Coaching for Managers
- Owner Manager Programme
- Hospital Management for Health Professionals Programme
- Managing Healthcare Businesses
A significant highlight of the day was the official launch of the SBS @20 initiative. The initiative will showcase SBS’s unwavering commitment to building a robust network of African leaders dedicated to ethical governance and sustainable business practices.
Strathmore University Business School Celebrates 20 Years
Dr. George Njenga, the Founding Dean of Strathmore Business School (SBS), appealed for collaboration and commitment to Africa’s transformative journey. Addressing the graduates, alumni, and distinguished guests, Dr. Njenga underscored the critical role of collective effort in shaping the future of the continent.
“As we mark two decades of nurturing ethical, visionary leaders, we also take this moment to reflect on the immense potential that lies within Africa. But to realize this potential, we need your support. Together, we can transform the dreams of this continent into realities that uplift communities, drive sustainable growth, and foster innovation,” he said.
The SBS @20 initiative, he explained, is more than a celebration of the past. According to him, it is a strategic call to action for the next phase of impact. Through strengthened partnerships, expanded access to education, and innovative programs, SBS aims to equip more leaders with the tools they need to address Africa’s unique challenges and seize its opportunities.
On his part, Dr. Mwangi said the 20-year anniversary celebration is a rallying call for unity and purpose, inspiring all to contribute to the shared vision of a thriving, equitable Africa led by ethical and innovative leaders.
Article written by Stephen Wakhu
Article adapted from https://strathmore.edu/news-articles/strathmore-business-school-honors-284-executive-graduates-and-launches-sbs-20/ on 9th December 2024
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