“The visit by the Honorable Paul Biego was a significant occasion,” said Dr. Gaurav Shekhar, senior assistant dean for graduate programs at the Jindal School. “It demonstrated the dedication of JSOM and The University of Texas at Dallas to foster education and collaboration with countries like Kenya and to attract the best talent from around the world
Dr. Hasan Pirkul, Caruth Chair and Jindal School dean, highlighted the achievements and accolades of JSOM, such as its AACSB accreditation, its ranking among the top business schools in the nation and the world, and its diverse and innovative programs and research areas.
“Our school is a melting pot of cultures,” Pirkul said. “We have had the privilege of attracting the best talent from all over the world. Our friends in Africa realize the potential of our partnership and we are very appreciative of that.”
The faculty members shared their insights and expertise on the current trends and challenges in their fields and how they are addressing them through teaching and research. Biego, who expressed his appreciation and admiration for JSOM and its leadership and faculty, also learned about the various projects and initiatives in which JSOM faculty are involved. He said was impressed by the breadth and depth of the JSOM faculty and their contributions to the academic and business communities.
“Africa is where the future of talent is,” said Dr. Habte Woldu, a clinical professor in the Jindal School. “Such partnerships will help the world to evolve in a new direction.”
Risper Abraham, founder of Anchor Network Foundation, and Dawacent Mose, director of operations at Anchor Network Foundation were in attendance. Shekhar said that Anchor Network Foundation has been instrumental in forging these relationships with the Kenyan students and that representatives from the organization have been actively recruiting students from Kenya for the Jindal School. They were the ones who coordinated Biego’s visit as well.
“It is an opportunity to tap into some hidden talent from Africa that can help shape the world’s future,” Abraham said. “Where else you would like to do it but at one of the top institutions, the Jindal School?”
The visit included a tour of the International Center and International Students and Scholars Office, which is the hub for all international activities and programs at UTD. Staff members introduced Biego to the various services and resources that they offer to international students, faculty, and visitors, such as orientation, advising, immigration, cultural events, and exchange programs. The MP also learned about the diversity and inclusion efforts that the center promotes and supports, such as the International Week, the International Student Council, and the Intercultural Programs. He praised the International Center for its role in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for the international community at UTD. He also said he is inspired by the remarkable dedication and excellence that distinguish UTD.
“The high quality of education is not just a beacon of knowledge but a gateway of unlimited opportunities for students worldwide,” he said. “During my visit to the institution, I had the privilege of enjoying the warm Texas hospitality extended by the UTD community and I eagerly look forward to forging a partnership to increase the attendance of Kenyan students at UTD. This vision fills me with inspiration and hope for what lies ahead.”
Shekhar said the highlight of the visit was Biego’s interaction with Kenyan students who are enrolled in various programs and levels at JSOM and UTD.
“He met with the students and answered their questions,” Shekhar said. “He shared his personal and professional journey and how he became a leader and a representative of his country. He also shared his vision and goals for Kenya and how he works to achieve them. He encouraged the students to pursue their dreams and aspirations and contribute to their country’s and the world’s development and prosperity. He also assured them of his support and guidance and urged them to stay in touch with him and his office.”
The MP’s speech inspired and energized the students, who expressed their gratitude and respect for him.
“It was a profound honor to welcome Hon. Paul Biego, MP for Chesumei Constituency, to UT Dallas during his visit to the United States” said Jalal Kadernani, MS’24, who was in attendance and graduates in December with an MS in Business analytics and Artificial Intelligence. “His presence not only strengthened the bond between our academic community and our homeland but also inspired us, the Kenyan international students, to strive for excellence in our educational pursuits. Hon. Biego’s commitment to development and progress serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for all of us, reminding us of the impact we can make in our respective fields and back home in Kenya.”
Students in attendance also asked him various questions, such as his views on the current issues and opportunities in Kenya, his advice on how to balance academic and personal life, his recommendations on how to prepare for the job market and the future, and his suggestions on how to maintain and strengthen the ties between Kenya and UTD.
“The MP answered their questions with candor and wisdom and encouraged them to keep learning and growing,” Shekhar said. “He also thanked them for choosing JSOM and UTD as their academic destination and for representing their country with pride and excellence. Meaningful partnerships need intent and honest work. Through encounters such as the one with Biego, we will make sure the best and the brightest from Africa find their way to a world-class experience at the Jindal School.”
Kadernani, who also earned a graduate Graduate Certificate in Business Intelligence and Data Mining during his time at UTD, had some advice to prospective students from Kenya considering studying abroad, particularly at The University of Texas at Dallas, encouraging them to embrace the opportunity with open arms and an eager mind.
“Your journey will be challenging, but it will also be incredibly rewarding,” Kadernani said. “Remember that you are ambassadors of our rich culture and values. Strive for academic excellence, actively engage in clubs and communities across campus, and make the most of the resources and networks available to you. Your experiences here will not only shape your future but also contribute to the growth and development of our beloved Kenya. Karibuni (Swahili for “welcome, all, to”) Dallas, and may your academic journey be filled with success and fulfillment.”
