Photo after the defense front left to right Prof. Combs(Reader), Dr. Kibe, Prof. Salvatore (Supervisor): back, left to right Prof. Hepp (Reader), Prof. Brent

Josephine Kibe, the former Executive Program Director at Strathmore Business School (SBS) and a lecturer at the School of Accountancy, successfully defended her PhD dissertation on November 26, 2012 at Fordham University, New York.

Dr. Kibe pursued a PhD in Economics with specialization in Financial Economics and International Economics. Her dissertation was on the development of a credit scoring model for the small and micro enterprise sector, case of Equity Bank.

Her research is crucial given that access to credit is important to small businesses as they play a vital role in our economy, as outlined in Kenya’s Vision 2030. She argues that those SMEs eligible for credit should have access to it, considering their important role in the economy. At the same time, there is need to protect the financial institution granting the loans from potential defaulters.

“The program was rigorous as it comprised comprehensive exams in the major areas, that is, Micro and Macroeconomics and the specialization areas, in addition to midterm and final exams. The course also required a mastery in at least two statistical softwares to aid in research work.”

“I am grateful to God for His blessings and grace and to my family for their support and encouragement,” said Dr. Kibe. “I am also very grateful to Dr. James Mwangi (CEO, Equity Bank) for the opportunity to work in the summer at the bank and for his mentorship”.

Dr. Kibe also thanked the Strathmore community for all the support, prayers and goodwill.