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For close to 40 years, the Alumni of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) have played a significant role in defining and shaping the Church and society in the AMECEA region and beyond. Efforts to establish a strong Alumni Association to provide opportunities for Alumni to reconnect with their Alma Mater, to recognize the contributions of graduates to industry and the wider community, and to encourage the Alumni to support each other and their University in various ways has now become real.
The focus of CUEA Alumni Relations is to engage Alumni on a much broader scale, so that we may move to maximize existing potentials.
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa Alumni Relations Office (CUEA-ARO) was established in October 2007. The Alumni Relations Office’s aim is to re-engage CUEA with its alumni. CUEA Alumni form a 26,000 strong network that has outstanding professionals and scholars serving across Africa and the world.
The CUEA Alumni Association is slowly but surely growing. Below is a snippet on the Association’s membership criteria and its benefits.
As Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) celebrates 40 years, we had the privilege of speaking with Faith Odhiambo, an alumna and the President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). She shares her journey through CUEA, her leadership experience, and her message to the graduating class of 2024.
My name is Faith Odhiambo. I am passionate about everything I do. I am a lawyer, a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, and a friend. Currently, I have the honor of serving as the President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). My journey has been driven by a mantra that I hold close to my heart: “Hustle, grit, grind.”
When I didn’t meet the cut-off points to join the University of Nairobi, which at the time was one of only two universities offering law, I felt like my dream of becoming a lawyer had been shattered. It was a heartbreaking moment that left me questioning whether this path was truly meant for me. But then, God opened a window through CUEA, and it became the turning point that reignited my dream.
CUEA didn’t just give me a second chance—it became a place where my aspirations were nurtured and shaped. The academic rigor and strong ethical foundation of the institution transformed how I viewed the law, teaching me to approach it with both intellectual sharpness and a deep sense of justice. It was also at CUEA that I first got to travel out of the country, a milestone that broadened my perspective and deepened my commitment to legal advocacy on a global scale.
I joined the Kenya Model United Nations (KMUN) and got the chance to moot competitively. We were the underdogs at the time, but through hard work, determination, and the support of our lecturers and peers, we slowly worked our way up. The friendships and networks I built, along with the skills I honed, gave me the confidence to push boundaries and dream even bigger.
CUEA was the bridge that connected me to endless opportunities, from internships to global platforms, and ultimately allowed me to become the lawyer I had always dreamed of. Today, as President of the Law Society of Kenya, I look back with immense gratitude for the role CUEA played in my journey. It’s a reminder that when one door closes, another opens—often leading you to places you never thought possible.
Being one of only two women to serve as the President of the Law Society of Kenya is both an honor and a responsibility. It comes with the immense task of leading not just from the front but also by example, particularly for young women in the profession who look up to you for inspiration. It has been a humbling journey of pushing boundaries, advocating for change, and ensuring that the legal profession remains a pillar of justice in our society.
I am proud to be part of a growing movement of women breaking barriers, not just in law but in leadership across Kenya.
The Rule of Law and Human Rights are at the core of my legal philosophy, and under my leadership, LSK has taken significant strides in both litigation and advocacy for human dignity and social justice. From challenging unconstitutional government actions to filing petitions that seek to protect the rights of marginalized communities, LSK’s role in defending human rights is a legacy I hold dear.
It is my hope that this legacy will reflect a society where the rule of law prevails, where every citizen feels protected by the legal system, and where justice is accessible to all, especially the vulnerable.
Outside of law, I absolutely love dancing! In fact, when I was elected as the LSK President, I was playfully nicknamed “the LSK dancing boss” by several news outlets. Dancing allows me to express myself, unwind, and find joy amidst the busyness of my legal work. Whether it’s a celebratory moment or just a way to relax, dancing keeps me grounded and connected to the lighter side of life.
In my leisure time, you’ll likely find me dancing, reading, or enjoying time with friends and family. I also love immersing myself in creative projects, such as teaching Sunday School children hands-on activities like making ribbons, crafts, and other creative items.
It’s a beautiful way to blend creativity with mentorship, teaching children both practical skills and important values in a fun and engaging manner. These sessions allow me to nurture their imagination while also fostering a sense of community, teamwork, and self-expression.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see young minds light up as they create something with their own hands, learning valuable lessons along the way. It’s all about finding balance and making time for the things that bring you happiness!
My advice to the graduands is simple:
As CUEA marks 40 years of excellence and resilience, we celebrate an institution that has consistently transformed communities through ethical research, innovation, education, and service. These four pillars are critical in shaping not just the professionals of today, but the leaders and visionaries of tomorrow.
CUEA has demonstrated how education rooted in values can build individuals who are not only competent but also compassionate and committed to the greater good.
On this significant milestone, I congratulate the entire CUEA family for fostering an environment where ethics, innovation, and service thrive hand in hand.
As we look to the future, may the university continue to inspire its graduates to lead with integrity and to be catalysts for positive change in their communities and beyond.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
Let your journey from here be one of impact, service, and transformation. Never stop striving to make a difference.
As Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) celebrates 40 years, we had the opportunity to speak with Joseph Kariuki Mwangi, an alumnus and Senior Clerk Assistant at the Kenyan Parliament. He shares his experiences at CUEA, his career in legislation, his passions, and his advice for the class of 2024.
I am Joseph Kariuki Mwangi, an alumnus of CUEA, Class of 2003. I pursued a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Business Administration.
Something I truly appreciated about CUEA was how well the systems worked. There was efficiency in all aspects of student life. Great lecturers, active student engagement, and a management that listened to our concerns made the experience worthwhile.
Unlike some universities where students would complain about missing marks, such incidents were unheard of at CUEA. The institution emphasized hard work, integrity, and academic discipline. There were no shortcuts—you had to earn your grades. Attendance was strictly monitored, and without meeting the 80% threshold, you couldn’t sit for exams. Cheating was not tolerated, and anyone caught faced discontinuation. This environment instilled in me discipline and resilience, values that have guided me throughout my career.
Beyond academics, student life was vibrant. The university provided a well-rounded experience—academically, socially, and spiritually. I particularly loved the peaceful and green environment of the Karen Campus. There were many clubs and activities that made student life engaging and enriching.
It is a demanding and fast-paced environment. Unlike the common stereotype of civil servants being under-engaged, working in Parliament requires innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Every day presents new challenges that require quick and effective decision-making.
It was a difficult and unfortunate day. The loss of young lives was deeply saddening—may their souls rest in peace. This event was a wake-up call for all Kenyans, highlighting the importance of accountability in governance. It also showed that citizens today are more aware of their rights and are keen on demanding good governance.
I have a deep passion for music. I am learning to play the piano and working on improving my vocals.
I am also passionate about advocating for the hearing-impaired community. I hope to learn sign language to support and communicate with them better.
Additionally, I am a CV coach and enjoy helping graduates prepare for the job market. I guide them on CV writing, job applications, and strategies for staying motivated during job hunting.
Stay strong, honest, and committed to good values. You will face challenges, but with diligence, passion, and innovation, you will succeed. Always approach life with a positive attitude.
CUEA should continue providing world-class education while upholding its core values of honesty, truth, and due process.
“Insist on the process! Process! Process! The authenticity of your products and services lies in the integrity of the process.”
Joseph Kariuki Mwangi’s journey from CUEA to Parliament is a testament to hard work, discipline, and integrity. His story is an inspiration to students and alumni, encouraging them to embrace their journey with purpose and excellence.
Njeri Florence, CUEA Students President 2021-2022.
Bachelor of Commerce, Accounting Major – Class of 2022
My CUEA experience has been great. In our First Year, we were well received and on-boarded into the University. Apart from academics, we were introduced to clubs, sports, Spiritual movements, and other university activities. I joined and actively participated in the spiritual movements, where I not only grew spiritually but had opportunities to travel for spiritual recollection in places like Subukia Shrine, Komarock Shrine, and Resurrection Garden.
Socially, I have been part of team-building activities in Ngong’ Hills, Hells Gate, Mt Longonot, Kilima Mbogo, and even Mombasa. I also became a Knowledge Ambassador supporting CUEA’s Digital Library and interacting with users.
Nature Nurture Club educated me on the importance of taking care of mother nature, and we planted so many trees in the University compound.
The Student activities such as Fresher’s Bash, Club’s week, International Dinner, Cultural Week, Mr and Miss CUEA, and Finalist Dinner, were amazing and great opportunities to have fun and link up, and create connections with other students and guests.
I have also been lucky to attend Alumni Talks, the CUEA International Women’s Day forum, and other external activities that CUEA hosted, including East Africa’s Got Talent and Presidential Media Debates.
I appreciate that the University’s leadership listens to the students and keeps an open-door policy. Through God’s Grace, I had an opportunity to also serve as a leader in various positions, including secretary to the Spiritual Movements Committee, Chairperson of the same committee, Secretary of the University Pastoral Council, and President, during my Fourth Year. This has sharpened and shaped me as a leader who is able to engage, influence, and inspire.
Briefly introduce yourself
My name is Robert Rapando. I work at Amref Health Africa as a Health Systems Strengthening Specialist. I pursued my Master’s degree in Development Studies and graduated in October 2021 from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. What does your work entail? My work entails building capacity and securing the commitment of county and national officials to provide good healthcare to the people. I also mobilize and organize local community-based organizations as well as communities to push for quality health services from the government.
Describe your CUEA experience and how it has contributed to who you are today
My decision to pursue Development Studies at CUEA was a well-thought-out idea. My first degree is in Political Science. Initially, I was to pursue a career within the Provincial Administration. However, I opted out and went into the NGO space where I have done a lot of work in youth programs, governance projects, and now health systems strengthening. Development Studies provided me the leeway to navigate well in the development space. I must however say that finding a balance between full-time employment, family and studies was not easy. I enrolled in January 2016 and finished classwork on schedule. However, the closure of the Kisumu Campus when I had just defended my project proposal threw me off balance. Transitioning to Eldoret Gaba Campus, then later losing my supervisor – the late Mr. Agembo made me lose morale in continuing with the research project. Were it not for my other supervisor – Sr. Lucy who literally dragged the four of us that had dropped off, I wouldn’t have graduated in 2021. CUEA is one institution that I would recommend anytime.
In what way have CUEA’s values impacted your life professionally and personally?
Working in some of the remotest and most marginalized parts of this country requires commitment and an innate drive. CUEA’s conviction that the Spirit of the Lord enables human beings to find meaning in life correlates with my personal commitment and the work that I do, to ensure that no child dies from treatable preventable causes and no mother dies while giving life.
Tell us what it was like to emerge in the 2021#Top40Under40 list. How did you get there and what does it mean to your career now and going forward?
The phone call from the Nation Media team informing me that I was a 2021#Top40Under40 got me by surprise. I never saw it coming. Top40Under40 is an initiative by Business Daily to recognize influential and progressive personalities that have left a mark in corporate Kenya and in business. I was nominated for my work over the years. First for providing leadership in the formation of Kisii Youth Bunge Sacco which was initiated in 2012 under the USAID funded Yes Youth Can project. It started with 45 members and 12,000/= shillings. Today, the Sacco has grown membership to over 6000 and its worth is over Kshs. 50Million. It is the best youth-owned, youth-led and youthmanaged Sacco in Kenya. It has created employment to 18 youths, and advanced loans to over 3000 members. Secondly, I was awarded for my work in strengthening health systems across the country. The #Top40Under40 has put me on the national map. I have received requests to give mentorship talks and offers for job opportunities. The award is not an end in itself and going forward I have to sustain the gains that placed me at the top while mentoring more young people to join the bandwagon for impact.
What would you describe as the critical success factors for one to do well in your field?
1. Networking – Unlike in Government or private sector where contracts are long term or even permanent, the NGO contracts are mostly 1 year. To ensure that you remain relevant, you must be competent in your work as well as maintain close relationships with colleagues. The entire NGO space is like a member’s club and members of staff rotate within that space.
2. Effective communication & Negotiation -There is a lot of communication – vertical (with those in authority or communities) and horizontal (other stakeholders). To advocate for change you must be able to communicate effectively and also negotiate well.
3. Adaptable – The NGO space is a fast-paced space with a lot of new things and jargon. To be relevant, you must be aware of what’s happening in the industry then quickly adapt.
4. Passion and commitment – The NGOs largely advocate for the down-trodden in the society. From expanding the civic space to addressing poverty and health, they largely target and operate in areas that are marginalized. This calls for passion and commitment to see change.
How long did it take for you to find your first job after graduation?
It took me 2.5 years to get my first job. During that period, I did post-graduation attachment (6 months) then unpaid internship (10 months). To survive in the city, I did a lot of online academic writing.
What advice would you give to the CUEA recent graduates?
1. Packaging yourself for the job market
I have a belief that education pays irrespective of how long it takes to secure that job, it will happen at one point. You only need to stay focused to the goal. The degree course you pursue today might not be what will pay your bills out there. The job market is very competitive and dynamic and as such one has to acquire soft skills, be willing to quickly adapt to new fields and enroll for short courses that directly respond to the needs of the job market. In Development Studies we are taught that friend-raising is fundraising. Expand your network through social networks such as LinkedIn, campus colleagues and social events and through that you increase your chances of securing opportunities.
2. Being patient as you hunt for opportunities
The job market today is not for the faint-hearted. You must have a positive attitude. Some of your peers will land jobs immediately after graduation while others will take longer secure their first job. The race is not against each other. Just be patient, remain focused and keep pushing. I know an engineer friend that tarmacked for 6 years but once he landed his first job caught up with his peers in less than six months. With a degree you can never go wrong!
3. How to attack the job market?
There are no scientific formulas in the job market. It is about how you utilize your inherent talents, opportunities available and being consistent in what you do. It’s possible that an opportunity that other 500 applicants are eying will end up in your hands. The starting point after campus is to manage your own expectations – come to terms with the fact that things might not always go as per your wish. At this period, utilize your soft skills – could be writing or doing volunteer work. It is better to acquire skills and experience through volunteer work than to stay home and miss both the money as well as experience. Have a succinct resume (not more than 2 pages for fresh graduates). Never apply for jobs in a hurry or by just forwarding the application via the phone or email. Each job application must be tailored to suit the job description. Network! Network! and network! Your referee is as good as your skills and academic papers. Most jobs today are posted online, therefore subscribe to legitimate job sites, and check your emails at least every 24 hours. You can also send unsolicited applications to select institutions because not all organizations advertise. Lastly, never ever pay any money to secure a job. Most likely you will be conned. I am sure no employer asks for money from potential employees.
What advice would you give to ongoing students?
1. Enjoy Campus responsibly: If you have the opportunity to travel the country, pitch your ideas or expand your skillset, do it now. Campus life is the best life you can live after heaven. Unfortunately, most lives are messed up in campus. Avoid drugs and alcohol if you want to make quicker strides in life.
2. Healthy relationships: Stay away from relationships that drain you emotionally. No girlfriend or boyfriend is worth dying for. Have a personal relationship with God. Always learn to do good to your friends and colleagues because most campus friends will define your future in the career space.
3. Personal Development: It’s not about what you learned or what you know but what you are willing to learn and know. Just stay focused, acquire soft skills and be of unquestionable integrity.
4. Managing money: Anyone with an Identity Card can open and operate a bank account and or own a mobile phone. This is the time to start managing resources at your disposal – however little. During free time or during long holidays, engage in paid work to earn income, do small farming, engage in online jobs etc. Such side hustles will come in handy during the job-hunting phase. At a personal level, have a budget and learn to live within that budget. Only buy what you need.
5. Holistic Growth: A prayer will help you when you feel the world is turning against you. Being truthful and honesty will make your life easy and stress-free. Seek to do things that grow you mentally, emotionally, spiritually and intellectually. The idea is developing as a wholesome human being.
