George Stanley Njoroge, a seasoned civil servant with a background in research that has import on governance and public policy, is embarking on a new journey to enhance his leadership skills through strategic communication. His enrolment in Aga Khan University's Master of Arts in Strategic Communications (MASC) programme is driven by a deep understanding of the critical role that effective communication plays in shaping public policy and driving social change.
George's diverse career experience, including his roles as a Research Officer at the KNATCOM UNESCO, a Policy Liaison Officer in the Cabinet Secretary’s Office at Kenya’s Ministries of Education as well as Sports; Assistant Director for Research at the State Department for Industrialization, with a brief stint at the Foreign Service Academy and now at the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage, has provided him with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the field of public communication. He recognizes the need for strategic communication to bridge the gap between policymakers and the public, ensuring that policies are effectively communicated, accepted and implemented.
"In my leadership studies, I learned that six out of the ten roles of a leader are communication-related," he explains. "Among them, the ability to negotiate, convey important messages comprehensibly, represent an organization effectively, and address internal issues is what sets constructive leaders apart from ineffective ones."
The MASC programme at AKU has resonated deeply with George, particularly its emphasis on the interconnectedness of strategic communication and development communication. He believes that effective communication is essential for promoting social and economic development, especially in developing countries like Kenya.
"While development communications is about conveying the growth of a region, strategic communications is about ensuring that what has been achieved is effectively communicated to the public," he explains. One of the key benefits of MASC for George has been the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty and interact with a diverse and accomplished group of peers. The programme's hybrid learning format has allowed him to balance his academic pursuits with his professional responsibilities.
As George continues his studies, he is excited about the prospect of applying his newly acquired knowledge and skills to his work in government. He aims to use strategic communication to improve public engagement, enhance policy implementation, and build stronger relationships with stakeholders.
"It's clear that storytelling, creative expression, and strategic communication will play a crucial role in shaping the future of governance and public policy, especially in a world that is embracing social media and artificial intelligence" he concludes. "As I continue my studies, I hope to be part of the movement that challenges traditional models and explores new ways of communicating policy, healing community trauma, promoting beneficial public policy and creating a more connected and informed society."
George's election as AKU Student Association Academic Secretary 2025 marks the beginning of an exciting chapter. Living a career that testifies to the power of lifelong learning and the importance of adapting to the changing landscape of communication.
