#KIU32ndGrad: From Campus Volunteer to IT Officer: Ahmed Joins KIU Staff Before Graduation

Ahmed Mbaraka Mtei, one of KIU’s IT graduands, is already putting his skills to work as a full-time IT Officer at the university, exemplifying how practical learning at KIU opens doors for students even before graduation.

Ahmed, who will be graduating with a Bachelor of Information Technology during KIU's 32nd graduation, now works as an IT Officer at the main campus, a position he earned through hard work during his internship, commitment, and a spirit of service. His journey from a dedicated student volunteer to a professional staff member reflects KIU’s commitment to empowering students with practical skills and real-world experience.

“I’m grateful that my professional journey began even before I completed my degree. Volunteering with the IT Office opened doors for me to prove my skills, and being offered a job at KIU was a dream come true, it showed me that hard work and passion truly pay off,” Ahmed says.

His journey was driven by a deep fascination with technology and its power to change lives.

“I have always been passionate about technology and how it transforms lives. KIU’s strong reputation for practical, hands-on training in IT inspired me to study here, knowing it would equip me with the skills to solve real-world technological challenges,” Ahmed explains.

During his time at the university, Ahmed made significant contributions to improving KIU’s ICT infrastructure. Together with his classmates, he worked on several projects that enhanced network performance and connectivity in key areas, including the KIU Girls’ Hostel, Boys’ Hostel, and basketball pitch.

“Balancing my studies with practical projects taught me a lot about leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork,” he narrates. “Those experiences prepared me for the professional world and helped me grow in confidence,” he adds.

Ahmed credits KIU’s diverse and supportive environment for shaping both his personal and professional growth.

“Interacting with students and staff from different backgrounds expanded my worldview and made me more adaptable and confident in working with people from various cultures and disciplines,” Ahmed says.

Looking ahead to the upcoming graduation ceremony, Ahmed reflects on how far he has come since joining KIU.

“When I first arrived at KIU, I was amazed by the size of the campus and its facilities,” he recalls. “But over time, I realized that KIU is more than just a university, it’s a community that nurtures growth and inspires excellence,” he says proudly.

As he prepares to walk across the graduation stage in Ishaka, Ahmed expresses heartfelt gratitude to those who supported him throughout his academic and professional journey.

“I want to thank my family for their endless support, my lecturers for their guidance, and my classmates for their teamwork,” he shares. “I’m especially grateful to the Chairman of the Board for his kindness and support when I was struggling with tuition his generosity kept my academic journey alive,” Ahmed adds.

He also appreciates the Campus Administrator for trusting him with an opportunity to serve as a staff member, which he says greatly accelerated his professional growth.

“I also thank everyone who guided and supported me during my internship and volunteer experiences especially Naggayi Asma,Aloyo Susan, and Aturinda Ronald whose encouragement and teamwork made my journey memorable and rewarding,” he notes.

To continuing students, he offers words of motivation drawn from his own experience.

“Stay focused, make use of every opportunity to learn, and balance your academics with practical experience. KIU provides the tools, it’s up to you to use them to shape your future,” Ahmed advises.

As Ahmed prepares to don his graduation gown on November 29th, his journey from volunteer to IT Officer before graduation highlights KIU’s mission of transforming lives through education, innovation, and opportunity.