The Deputy Vice Chancellor PRI, Prof. Charles Mutai (seated at the center), DTB team together with the 1st cohort of students trained.
A collaboration between Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) and Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) has yielded the launch of a Job Shadowing Program for MMUST students alongside other opportunities such as internship and Management Training programs. DTB launched this program on 19 cohort of students who have undergone their training. This is a form of job training that exposes learners to the job market. It involves observing a professional in their place of work to gain a better understanding of the role. The students will have an opportunity to work in the various sections of the Bank for a specified period.
This has emerged from a collaborative effort through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MMUST and Diamond Trust Bank. The program is open to both continuing and graduate students with intakes four times a year. It allows you to explore specific careers and to get a realistic picture of the tasks performed for that job. The program is based on merit and is open to students pursuing courses related to Business, Social Sciences, and Computing.
Speaking during the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai acknowledged Diamond Trust Bank for their commitment to investing in the next generation of professionals. Further, he encouraged them to utilize the opportunity to learn from their mentors and gain insights into the intricacies of the ICT, banking, and financial sectors.
Mr. William Amayo awarding a certificate to one of the students.
“Through this program, our students will be exposed to real-world challenges that require innovative solutions, thus driving the symbiotic relationship between academia and industry. I encourage you to seize this opportunity with both hands. This is a chance to expand your horizons, challenge yourselves, and contribute to our ever-evolving understanding of the business and ICT world. Your journey starts today, and I am confident that this experience will shape you into well-rounded, innovative, and dynamic individuals,” he reiterated.
The other notable personalities who participated in the event included the Director of AIDS Control, Gender, and Disability Mainstreaming- Prof. Benedict Alala, Director-International Relations and Academic Linkages (DIAL)- Dr. Umulkher Ali, Dean School of Business and Economics (SOBE), Dr. Dishon Wanjere, Prof. Willis Otuya, Dr. Jairus Odawa, Dr. Mary Nelima, Dr. Fridah Njeru and Dr. Evans Kwendo.
Representing the Chief Executive Officer of DTB, Mr. William Amayo stated that at DTB they are committed to enriching lives and offer students a chance to experience the workplace. “We want to bridge the gap between the theory students learn in class and bringing in the practical experience of the job market. Our job shadowing program provides an opportunity for University students to get immersed in different aspects of banking for the purpose of harmonizing workplace experience with class theory,” said Mr. Amayo.
Mr. William Amayo from DTB speaking at the event.
His sentiments were echoed by his counterparts, the Regional Manager (Kakamega), Mr. Benard Olage, Ms. Grace Odhiambo, and Ms. Beatrice Oluoch. They noted that they are pleased with the success of the Diamond Trust Bank Job Shadowing program adding that they are excited for the future of the eleven students from MMUST who have benefitted from it.
Two of the students who reflected on their experiences with the job shadowing program came away with positive insights. Ms. Magdelene Wanza and Mr. Gordon Kura who are students from the School of Business and Economics attested to the informative and interactive sessions they had during their training. freshmen’s “We would like to appreciate DTB because they care about our professional development. They offered a platform to learn, be grounded, sharpen our skills, and a space to network. This is a step closer to our careers!” they said.
One of the beneficiaries of the Job Shadowing Program, Mr. Gordon Kura giving his insights concerning the program.
Certainly, this initiative improved the students’ realistic perception of their future job duties and responsibilities. It is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, bringing together the academic rigor of our institution with the dynamic challenges and opportunities of the business world.
By Linet Owuor
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
