A DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY ALUMNUS MOVING ACROSS AFRICA PROVIDING GIS SOLUTIONS
“When I enrolled to study at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT), I had no clue about the course I chose to pursue but with time, DeKUT transformed my uninformed thoughts about it into a reality; an expert in the field of Geospatial Information Systems (GIS). This is courtesy of the University’s focus on Quality Education. The events at the university really built my career; I discovered my love for programming and started building my skills and developed them further as I mentored other young developers during forums such as GDev and others organized by DeHUB- an innovation and incubation hub established by the University to support students who have great passion in tech., innovation and entrepreneurship realize their dreams. Studying at DeKUT therefore placed me where I am today– a GIS Consultant.”- Wanjohi Kibui
Samuel Wanjohi Kibui is our alumnus, graduating class of 2016. He studied Geomatics, Geospatial Information Systems and before he graduated, he was already doing consultancy in mapping, GIS systems development, Data collection and GIS Training. He is the co – founder of Geosymp Limited - a company specializing in Geospatial solutions. He also runs “Life in GIS”- a personal initiative within the industry through which he works with companies, teams and communities to provide solutions to using GIS and solving related problems.
“I always had a passion for computers. Much of it came about after my high school where we had to wait for about one and half years before joining campus. I pursued a diploma in ICT through which I acquired fundamental knowledge in operating systems and software development. I later discovered my passion in GIS programming through the exposure I had at DeKUT. It was through the University’s Institute of Geomatics, GIS and Remote Sensing (IGGReS) that I got an opportunity to participate in a research project, “Pilot implementation of the Land Administration Domain Model”, conducted in Kenya, and funded by NASA and USAID through RCRMD. This research sharpened my expertise in the GIS systems development and project management in general. It’s a core contributor to where I am,” says Kibui
Kibui says that he was inspired by the urge to bring into life solutions that could help people, seeing developers come up with solutions and his desire of being his own boss. He says he is a big fan of YouTube, since its home to every tutorial, video, music and a lot of materials. “YouTube is more than a library. I started my YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/wanjohikibui) to help interact with other creators out there and share my knowledge with the world. I like feedback, in both dimensions. It helps one grow. I started by doing tutorials which called for sleepless nights and hard work. The fun in the game made me soldier on. It was worth it. I enjoy every moment of what I do and yearn to learn and share more.”- he says.
Currently, Kibui is exploring Machine Learning and integrating existing tech to his outputs to enhance his GIS practice. He is also venturing into security related solutions as an additional effort to affirm his GIS applications in the modern day world. “I have helped form a group of think tanks that is coming up with innovative solutions and products around Machine Learning and Data Analytics. The group has had several gatherings to discuss a "Future" that we all want to achieve. It's really interesting working with top-notch professionals in different sectors,” he adds. Kibui says that his greatest achievement is being able to utilize his skills to provide solutions across many industries and countries.
"IGGReS and DeKUT at large was the best I had in regard to building GIS knowledge and mentorship. I was able to link up with great minds in the industry and plan my career. The department was a great source of inspiration and career development. It's a place I will live to remember,” Kibui
As Samuel Wanjohi Kibui continues to move across the continent and beyond demonstrating that self-actualization and solutions to global challenges are attainable through a spirit of dedication, self –confidence, determination, and best utilization of resources coupled with Quality Education and Holistic Development that is this University’s DNA, we continue to mould more like him.
We are proud of you Kibui. Keep on!