Since its formal inception in 2023, the Hekima University College (HUC) Alumni Association has been quietly laying the groundwork for a revolution in how the institution engages its graduates. In a recent interview, Association Coordinator Mr. Stephen Kiama, an alumnus of Hekima Peace Studies and International Relations (HIPSIR) Class of 2014, revealed that the association has moved past its “infancy” stage and is now focused on financial independence and global visibility.
From establishing a robust management structure to planning high-profile public lectures featuring continental icons, the Association is signalling a shift toward a more professional and “secular-facing” identity.
Kiama noted that the primary achievement of the past year has been the creation of a sophisticated organizational structure. Unlike many fledgling associations, HUC Alumni now operates with tiered management with permanent officials serving as legal custodians, supported by a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council, both refreshed every three years to ensure a “new harvest” of ideas.
The Association has established a “Trust Unit” featuring multiple accounts, including a unique arrangement where 20% of all income is held by the University, a fund the institution can utilize as it grows. In addition, Kiama revealed that 2026 marks the formal rollout of official registration and annual subscription fees to move the Association away from a total reliance on university subsidies.
Beyond the Church Perimeter
A central theme of the Association’s new strategy is expanding Hekima’s brand beyond its traditional Catholic boundaries. Kiama emphasized that while the Jesuit School of Theology (JST) alumni remain vital, the Hekima Peace Studies and International Relations (HIPSIR) graduates are currently the most active driving force.
“The peace studies program and related secular programs need to grow if the university is to compete globally,” Kiama argued. He explained that many alumni are seeking career advancement in government, NGOs, and international diplomacy rather than within church hierarchies.
“If today you told me to choose between listening to a Cardinal and Uhuru Kenyatta, the former president of Kenya, I’d choose Uhuru Kenyatta. I’m looking for a better opportunity to upgrade myself economically and socially; I’m looking to rise in my career.”
The Association has, for the last two years, been organizing annual alumni dinners, which, unfortunately, have been characterized by low turnouts. “The dinners have two objectives: to bring us together, to network and know one another, and number two, to raise some funds,” he explained.
To address the challenge of low turnout at the annual dinners, the Association is pivoting toward high-impact events designed for networking and career leverage. They have three considerations: the Public Lecture Series, where the Association is currently seeking speakers who resonate with “peace people” and diplomats. Names like PLO Lumumba and former President Uhuru Kenyatta have been floated as examples of figures who can offer alumni more than just a sermon; they can serve as a bridge to professional networks. Secondly the Association is considering an Alumni of the Year Awards, a new initiative set for August 2026 to recognize graduates who have made outstanding contributions to society, boosting the “prestige factor” of being a Hekima alumnus and thirdly, the association is considering Diplomatic Engagement where the Association plans to invite Ambassadors and High Commissioners to speak on contemporary African peace negotiations and economic growth.
Kiama’s message to his fellow alumni is clear: the Association is not just a social club; it is a professional launchpad. While the JST wing remains “conservative,” Kiama is confident that the momentum from HIPSIR will eventually draw the entire Hekima family into a more vibrant, active community.
The Hekima Alumni Structure at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
| Membership | Open to JST and HIPSIR graduates. |
| Primary Goal | Career progression, networking, and university visibility. |
| Key Event | Alumni of the Year Awards (August 2026). |
| Financial Goal | Self-sustainability through subscriptions and trust accounts. |
By Pamela Adinda, HUC Communications and International Office Coordinator
