Seated (right), Mr. Konrad afande, (center), the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Solomon Shibairo, (far left), the Dean SOBE, Prof. Robert Egesa together with the Participants pose for a group photo after the courtesy call.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has become the pioneer University to launch the Capital Markets Students’ Association club in Kenya. This was evident during the official launch of the club, which took place today, 5th April, 2023 at the University grounds. The ceremony was graced by the Manager Education and Public Awareness, Capital Markets Authority (CMA), Mr. Konrad Afande who was in the company of the University management, led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo. This event was organized by the School of Business and Economics (SOBE) under the leadership of its Dean, CS Prof. Robert Egessa.
Prior to the official launch, the team which comprised of CS Prof. Robert Egessa, the Club patron, Dr. Tabby Goko, students’ leadership of the club and the guest of the day, Mr. Konrad Afande, paid a courtesy call to the Office of the Vice chancellor.
Speaking during the courtesy call, Prof. Shibairo lauded the students and leadership of SOBE for creating such a unique students' club. He said it will play a huge role in deepening students' knowledge of finance and investments, as they will be discussing trends facing various asset classes in the current financial markets, hence complementing and enhancing their coursework. Prof. Shibairo also demystified the traditional way of looking at investments saying that we should learn and accept that we can make money work for us.
“I am encouraging young people to have the investment culture and grow up with it. As per the club, you have my full support for I believe it will form a basis for other students in the University to learn and understand more about capital markets. May you succeed in this,” said Prof. Shibairo.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo address the participants during the courtesy call.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning Research and Innovation (DVC PR&I), Prof. Charles Mutai reiterated the Vice Chancellor’s sentiments, acknowledging that creating such kinds of opportunities is good for the young people. He noted that to invest does not necessarily require a large amount of money, adding that there are many investment options available that are accessible even with the small amounts of money. Prof. Mutai encouraged the students to invest early, saying that it will create an opportunity for their investments to grow over time besides being able to develop good financial habits and discipline as well as knowledge about the investment process hence becoming more comfortable with investing.
“Capital markets is a key area in terms of business. It is important that our students learn, understand and even invest in capital markets as it can provide numerous benefits such as financial literacy, long-term wealth creation, understanding risks, economic awareness, and social responsibility while they are still young,” stated Prof. Mutai.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning, Research and Innovation (DVC PR&I), Prof. Charles Mutai presenting the club registration certificate to the patron, Dr. Tabby Goko.
“This is the very first Students' Capital Markets Association in Kenya. You will go down in history for you have just set the trend for other public Universities,” said Mr. Afande. He congratulated the students for the efforts put towards the establishment of the club and encouraged them to explore and invest in capital markets, saying that it is not just for the rich as many people think.
The Dean SOBE, CS Prof. Robert Egesa commended his students for ‘birthing’ such a unique opportunity. He revealed that the School has had a series of events involving key industry players that has been geared towards ensuring that students are in touch with what is going on in the business environment.
“We are making history today. Investment in the capital markets is critical in the modern world that we are in. We need to explore the aspects of buying shares, stocks and studying trends that will inform our buying decisions. By launching this club and actively participating in it, I believe it will go a long way as we prepare you for the world of work,” said Prof. Egessa.
Prof. Robert Egesa making a point during the courtesy call.
Prof. Benedict Alala, the Director Privately Sponsored Students Programmes and the Director, Office of Career Services, Dr. Teresa Okoth also had the opportunity to address the participants. They challenged the students to take up this opportunity and work closely with CMA by participating in their activities including competitions and represent the University to greater heights. The two also requested Mr. Afande to consider MMUST students in their attachment and internship programmes, noting that MMUST has very talented students.
The patron of the club, Dr. Tabby Goko also applauded the students for teaming up and bringing to life such an initiative. She pointed out that the club will provide a platform for students to not only share ideas on concepts related to capital markets but also improve its member's knowledge, opportunities, and network within the world of finance.
A section of the students during the launch of the club.
It is worth noting that the club is a student-led initiative and we wish to give credit to Mr. Rigan Otieno, who is the Chairperson of the Club and Mr. Gordon Akuro for establishing the Capital Market Students Association. Other leaders of the Association include the Secretary General, Ms. Loice Akoth; Treasurer, Mr. Jethro Tum; Editor, Ms. Linet Soila and the Auditor General, Mr. Mathew Juma. The event was also attended by the male and female representatives of the School (SOBE), Mr. Godwin James and Ms. Pauline Namae.
It is commendable that students are thinking outside the box and coming up with initiatives that can help them grow in their professions. As a University, we feel proud when we see our students have an active student life on campus and we continue to encourage them to join a student clubs. This is a great opportunity for them to learn responsibility, develop individual initiative, network - building meaningful connections with their peers as they unite for a common purpose, as well as build on their professional skills. Mark you, the friendships and networks cultivated during this time last far beyond one’s time at the University.
By Caren Nekesa
Photos by Linet Owuor