The Speaker of the South Sudan National Assembly Jemma Nunu Kumba is making headlines as she graduates top of her class in Egerton University’s 48th cohort. The graduation ceremony is taking place today, November 29, 2024, at the University Sports Pavilion grounds.
Kumba is completing her Master’s degree in Security Studies, an achievement she is describing as a significant milestone in her academic and personal life. “I am happy to have satisfied my lecturers that I had accomplished all that was required of me despite the busy schedules that come with my duties,” she is explaining.
The Speaker is acknowledging the challenges of balancing family, work, and studies, calling it a delicate act. “Balancing between family, work, and studies has been a delicate act, just like it is for most womenfolk who endeavor to further their studies,” she is noting.
Honorable Kumba is highlighting the flexibility of Egerton University’s School of Distance Learning, which has allowed her to manage her studies alongside her professional commitments. “The programme offered a flexible approach to study. The University should consider setting up a campus in South Sudan to enable more students from my country achieve such academic rigor,” she is suggesting.
As she reflects on her academic journey, the Speaker is expressing her gratitude to her supervisors for their mentorship and guidance. “I enjoyed my stay at Egerton University. I thank my supervisors, Dr. Murenga and Prof. Erick Bor, among others, who gave me advice, mentorship, and guidance. They were very supportive and kept me on my toes,” she is saying.
She is also appreciating the support she has received from the South Sudan government. “President Salva Kiir gave me permission to study in Kenya. I thank him for that. The government of South Sudan and Kenya enjoy cordial relations. The education I have gained will help transform lives back at home,” she is explaining.
The Speaker is dedicating her success to her family, particularly her husband, for his unwavering support. “This achievement I dedicate to my family. My husband followed through to ensure I had done my dissertation. He kept asking about my progress,” she is sharing.
She is also commending Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage for his leadership in rebuilding the institution. The Speaker is urging the university to strengthen its School of Distance Learning to benefit more working professionals. “This would enable more people to study and work at the same time,” she is emphasizing.
Her journey, the Director Marketing and Resource Mobilization at Egerton University Prof. Nzula Kitaka said, should be able to inspire many, particularly women facing challenges in pursuing higher education. She marveled at every response the Speaker made as she fielded questions from Journalists.
“This, is indeed great to have you here, Congratulations,” said Prof. Kitaka as she ushered her to pose for some photos with the Vice Chancellor Prof. Kibwage as memorabilia.
“We are proud of you. I have heard your thoughts about a possibility of Egerton University setting up a campus in South Sudan,” said Prof. Kibwage smiling back.
Written By: Kurian Musa
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