Fredrick Odero
MSc Information Systems 2007
After studying a BSc in Physics, and having briefly studied global trends in the work place application of knowledge of Computer Science and Information Technology, Fredrick developed strong interests in pursuing a postgraduate degree in the discipline of Information Systems and Technology. That is why he decided to join the University of Sunderland at one of the University partnership colleges in Nairobi, at the JKUAT Centre between 2004 and 2006.
Fredrick explains: “University of Sunderland did not only offer the most suitable course of study for me, but also competitive scholarships to postgraduate students from Commonwealth Countries interested in pursuing computing studies. I am a beneficiary of this elaborate and noble scheme targeting developing Countries.
“I enjoyed my course right from the beginning up to the end. It was well structured with rich content in form of modules that changed my academic life. For the first time, I was introduced to ethical research in a module titled ‘Research Ethical, Professional and Legal Issues (REPLI)’. I have not only retained but perfected skills acquired from this module. I also acquired critical knowledge and developed strong technical skills spanning the entire spectrum of computer software and hardware.”
In May 2014 he moved temporarily to Durban where he is currently a PhD Research Scholar in the Discipline of Information Systems and Technology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. His area of research is Multi Criteria Decision Analysis for Information Systems and he intends to be an active participant in the academia.
Fredrick is truly convinced about the impact that the degree from Sunderland has had in his career.
“My degree from the University of Sunderland has opened doors of opportunities both in the academia and in the industry. Apart from teaching at universities, supervising and researching in the field of Computer Science and Information Technology, first at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and currently at TaitaTaveta University College, I have taken up and successfully carried out a number of national and international ICT Consultancy projects by both the Government and the private sector.
“Some of the countries where I have recently successfully undertaken ICT Consultancy work include Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, UK and South Africa.
In 2011, I was appointed member of the National ICT Cluster Task Force by the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of Information and Communication. More recently, I have been appointed ICT Director by my employer, TaitaTaveta University College, where I also serve as Lecturer in the Department of Mathematics and Informatics”.
Fredrick’s advice to current student and recent graduates is to work hard, have self-discipline and determination. He also recommends spending time at the University, which provides a perfect opportunity for networking and confidence building. “Leverage on these to secure your dream job”, Fredrick concludes.