Kenya National Association of Private Colleges Chairperson Dr. Ekrah Ndungu Celebrates Excellence at Prestigious Awards Ceremony

In a dazzling celebration of achievement and hard work, Dr. Ekrah Ndungu, the Chairperson of the Kenya National Association of Private Colleges (KENAPCO), addressed a gathering of distinguished guests, awardees, and industry leaders at a prestigious awards ceremony held in Nairobi last evening. The event marked a culmination of excellence across various sectors, with individuals and organizations being recognized for their exceptional contributions to Kenya’s growth and development.

In her address, Dr. Ndungu acknowledged the immense challenges faced by businesses, communities, and individuals in 2024, citing the harsh economic conditions, floods, and governmental challenges. Despite these obstacles, she emphasized that the awardees had managed to rise above adversity and maintain their focus on excellence, making remarkable strides in their respective fields.

“As we gather here tonight, we are reminded that success is not just about individual achievements. It is about perseverance, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges while uplifting others,” Dr. Ndungu said. “This evening, we celebrate the exceptional individuals who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and passion in their work, and whose contributions are shaping the future of our beloved Kenya.”

Dr. Ndungu reflected on Kenya’s remarkable journey, describing the nation as one built on resilience, creativity, and the drive to innovate and solve problems. She encouraged the awardees to continue pushing boundaries, noting that their hard work and commitment to excellence have positioned them as role models and agents of change in society.

“Whether in education, business, sports, or the arts, each of you here today is a beacon of what can be achieved through determination and the will to succeed. You are the elite of excellence, and your success will inspire generations to come,” she added.

In her speech, Dr. Ndungu also addressed the current challenges faced by businesses in the country and beyond, stressing the importance of adapting to a rapidly changing world. “The future of work, digital transformation, and sustainability are no longer optional for businesses. We must adapt and cultivate agility in the face of uncertainty to succeed,” she stated.

She also spoke about the opportunities available in East Africa, highlighting the region’s growing population and its significance as a major market for businesses. However, she cautioned about the risks posed by economic inequalities, specifically the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few, which could hinder the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises.

“One of the greatest challenges Africa faces today is plutocracy and aristocracy. The wealthy few often make decisions that benefit only themselves, leaving the rest of society behind. It is crucial that we work together to create a fairer business environment that fosters growth for all,” Dr. Ndungu remarked.

The Chairperson also emphasized the importance of strong customer relationships, urging businesses to prioritize understanding their customers’ needs and values. “In this age of the attention economy, it is essential to know your customer and tailor your offerings to meet their evolving needs,” she said.

Dr. Ndungu concluded her address by congratulating the awardees once again, praising them for their unwavering commitment to excellence. She encouraged all present to continue striving for greatness and to work collaboratively to build a Kenya that is inclusive, innovative, and resilient.

“We are the architects of our future. Let us continue to work together to inspire, learn, and grow. Congratulations to all the awardees tonight, and may your success continue to shine as a beacon for generations to come,” she said.

The event ended on a high note, with attendees expressing their admiration for the awardees and their commitment to making a lasting impact in Kenya and beyond.