MMUST’s School of Computing and Informatics Holds Exit Seminar for Its Final-Year Students
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s School of Computing and Informatics (SCI), on 29th April 2025, held an exit seminar for its final-year students. The seminar, themed, ‘Thriving Beyond Campus: Branding and Growth in the Tech Industry’, aimed at preparing students for life beyond the University. It brought together students, faculty, and industry professionals to equip the graduating class with practical insights and strategies for navigating the tech job market. The event took place at the University’s computer laboratory.
Addressing the students, the Dean SCI, Dr. Daniel Otanga emphasized the need for resilience and adaptability. “You will need more than technical skills to thrive, you will need grit, curiosity, character, and courage. You will face rejection, and competition, and your knowledge will be tested. But keep learning, skilling, and challenging yourself. The world is yours to conquer. Go forward with vision, and wisdom. We have absolute faith in your ability to build, lead, and transform,” remarked Dr. Otanga, as he congratulated the class of 2025!
The Dean School of Computing and Informatics, Dr. Daniel Otanga addresses the students.
The Associate Dean SCI, Dr. Collins Odoyo urged the students to be intentional and strategic in their job application processes. He emphasized the importance of customizing each application to fit the specific requirements of a job opportunity. “Avoid sending the same CV and cover letter to every job. Each opportunity has unique demands, tailor your documents to match the role you are applying for,” he advised, reminding the students to use the internet wisely and exercise caution on social media platforms.
“The internet never forgets. What you post today can shape how future employers and professional networks perceive you. Take charge of your brand, and consistently share content that aligns with how you want to be seen or addressed in the professional space,” cautioned Dr. Odoyo.
The Associate Dean SCI, Dr. Collins Odoyo at a past event.
Reiterating, the School’s Coordinator of Career Services, Dr. Laban Oenga underscored the importance of such seminars in preparing students for a purpose-driven life. “Many graduates leave with degrees but feel uncertain about where or how to begin. I am confident that this forum has shaped our finalists’ mindsets, particularly in upskilling and networking. This is not the end, but a launchpad for graduates ready to thrive in dynamic fields,” he noted.
Ms. Brenda Siele, Principal Employment Officer from the National Employment Authority- Western and Nyanza regions, presented a key address titled ‘Empowering Kenya’s Youth for a Dynamic Workforce: Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Global Careers for the Tech Generation’. spoke on shifting employment trends, including the rise of remote work, and encouraged students to embrace the gig economy and artificial intelligence. “Your dream careers won’t come overnight. Be patient, grow your skills, because this is what the world of work is demanding today,” she advised.
Ms. Brenda Siele, Principal Employment Officer from the National Employment Authority -Western and Nyanza regions, talking to the students at the event.
Representatives from UniAbroad Education Services, led by Ms. Caroline Kinyanjui, also engaged with the students on key issues such as continuous learning, international certification pathways, and building a global professional presence. They stressed the importance of adaptability and staying current with emerging tech trends. The seminar featured a broad array of relevant topics including Mental health and stress management in the tech industry; Free and paid online tech courses for career advancement; Women driving Kenya’s tech revolution; as well as Alumni success stories and career journeys.
Looking ahead, the School, through the Office of the Coordinator of Career Services, plans to implement a series of post-seminar activities. These include graduate mentorship and peer matching, bi-monthly topical webinars, a graduate dinner, a digital graduation album, and alumni onboarding programs; all intended to strengthen graduate support and networking opportunities.
The UniAbroad Education Services team (in black t-shirts) keenly following presentations at the event.
Among the faculty present were Dr. Raphael Angulu (Chairperson, Department of IT), Dr. Satwinder Singh, Dr. Charles Mwango, and Dr. Apollo Walliaro, who lent their support and expertise to the forum.
Certainly, the seminar provided a crucial platform for students to gain practical insights and prepare for the transition from academia to the professional world. As the final-year students prepare to exit the University, the School extends its best wishes for their future endeavours.
By Caren Nekesa
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
