The School of Humanities and Development Studies (SHDS) organized a Student Advising Forum for its students on March 4, 2025, at the Nelson Mandela Hall. The event, an initiative of Dr. Sheila Pamela Wandera-Simwa, the Academic Dean of SHDS, was well-attended by both staff and students. The forum was officially opened by Prof. John Kanjogu, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research, and Student Affairs (DVC ARSA).
In his opening remarks, Prof. Kanjogu highlighted the critical importance of student advising and praised the school for initiating the forum. He expressed appreciation for the strong faculty attendance, noting it reflected a true commitment from the academic staff. He also observed that student participation was impressive, with the hall reaching full capacity.
The keynote address, titled "Academic Mentorship for a Transformative Agenda," was delivered by Prof. James Onyango Ogola, a senior faculty member at the university. Prof. Ogola encouraged students to reflect on the University's vision, "Nurture and Transform for the World," and aspire to become responsible global citizens equipped with both technical and soft skills. He posed a thought-provoking question to the students: "How do you nurture and transform for the world?" He emphasized that core values such as Quality, Integrity, Sustainability, Innovativeness, and Collaboration could empower students to bring out their best and make meaningful contributions globally. Prof. Ogola also advised students to take control of their academic and personal well-being, emphasizing the importance of time management and maintaining a balance between their social, economic, spiritual, and academic lives.
Student advising plays a vital role in the university experience by providing academic guidance and supporting personal and career growth. Advisors assist students in selecting courses, understanding degree requirements, and managing academic challenges. Advising also help students explore career opportunities, understand job market trends, and find internships or research opportunities, ensuring that students are on track for their professional aspirations. Beyond academics, advisors often serve as mentors, helping students build life skills, emotional intelligence, and decision-making abilities. They also connect students to resources for mental health support, time management, and conflict resolution.
Dr. Sheila Wandera-Simwa, the Dean of the School, offered further guidance to the students. She advised them to familiarize themselves with their departments and exam officers to navigate their academic journeys effectively. She encouraged students to read the Student Handbook and familiarize themselves with the university’s rules and regulations, stressing the importance of maintaining academic integrity. Dr. Wandera-Simwa also emphasized the significance of attending classes regularly, meeting the 75% attendance requirement, sitting for Continuous Assessment Tests (CATS), and adhering to a respectful dress code. She concluded by urging students to take ownership of their academic progress, as the responsibility for success lies with both the individual and the institution.
Effective student advising not only contributes to academic success but also supports personal and professional development, enhancing the overall university experience. The students were encouraged to make the most of academic advising sessions to ensure their growth and success.
The event was attended by a distinguished group of individuals, including the Chief Guest, Prof. John Kanjogu, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (ARSA); Dr. Sheila Wandera-Simwa, Dean of SHDS; Keynote Speaker Prof. James Onyango Ogola; Chair of Departments Dr. Babere Chacha and Dr. Nelson Ndiritu; Exam Officers Ms. Penina Mumbua and Dr. Florence Mwithi. Other faculty members included Rev. Fr. Dr. Peterson Kabugi, Prof. Albert Rutere, Prof. Jacinta Ndambuki, Prof. Eliud Kirigia, Dr. Joakim Oundo, Mr. Macdonald Juma, Dr. Lydia Waiya, Prof. Wendo Nabea, Mr. Nahashon Nyangeri, Prof. Goro Kamau, Dr. Pauline Ndoro. Prof. Felicia Yieke and Fancy Sitonik represented the Directorate of Corporate Affairs alongside Ms. Janet Lagat from the Faculty Secretariat.
