Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Economics with Information Technology

Programme Code: 1470588

Philosophy

The philosophy of the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Economics with Information Technology program is built on the integration of quantitative logic, resource optimization, and digital execution. It is guided by the belief that modern economic challenges require more than just theory; they require mathematical precision and technological scalability.

In the Kenyan academic landscape, this philosophy is anchored by four key principles:

1. The Triad of Quantitative Intelligence
   The core principle is the synergy between three domains: Mathematics (the logic), Economics (the context), and IT (the tool). The program is based on the belief that a professional who can mathematically model an economic problem and then build a digital solution for it is the ultimate driver of the 21st-century economy.
2. Evidence-Based Economic Transformation
   The program is guided by a commitment to objective decision-making. It promotes the philosophy that sustainable national development—aligned with Kenya Vision 2030—must be built on rigorous data analysis and mathematical forecasting rather than intuition. It seeks to produce “Practical Economists” who use technology to solve real-world scarcity and distribution problems.
3. Computational Pragmatism
   The “Applied” nature of the program dictates a philosophy of problem-solving through technology. It emphasizes that mathematical and economic theories are most valuable when they can be automated and scaled. This principles-based approach ensures students view IT not just as a subject, but as the primary medium for implementing economic logic.
4. Ethical Stewardship of Data and Policy
   Because graduates often influence financial markets and national policies, a fundamental principle is integrity and accountability. The philosophy instils a deep sense of ethics regarding data privacy, the unbiased reporting of economic indicators, and the social responsibility that comes with managing national or corporate resources.

Objectives

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Economics with Information Technology is designed to produce “quantitative economists” who are tech-savvy. The objectives focus on creating a bridge between abstract mathematical theories, practical economic policies, and modern computing tools.

Key Program Goals
• Integrated Expertise: To provide a strong foundation in the three pillars: mathematical logic, economic theory, and information technology.
• Analytical Proficiency: To develop the ability to use mathematical tools (like calculus and linear algebra) to analyze and solve complex economic problems.
• Technological Mastery: To ensure students can utilize specialized software and programming languages to handle large-scale financial and economic data.
• Strategic Decision-Making: To prepare graduates who can provide data-driven insights for national planning, business strategy, and financial management.

Expected Learning Outcomes
By the end of the program, a graduate should be able to:
• Model Economic Phenomena: Create and interpret mathematical models that represent market trends, consumer behavior, and macroeconomic indicators.
• Perform Econometric Analysis: Use statistical and IT tools (such as STATA, R, or E-Views) to test economic hypotheses and conduct empirical research.
• Develop Financial Systems: Design and implement algorithms or software solutions for financial forecasting, risk management, and resource optimization.
• Synthesize Policy Solutions: Formulate evidence-based recommendations for public policy or corporate strategy based on rigorous quantitative analysis.
• Communicate Complex Insights: Translate technical mathematical and economic findings into clear, actionable reports for non-technical stakeholders.
• Apply Ethical Standards: Demonstrate professionalism and ethics in data handling, economic reporting, and financial dealings.

Mode of Delivery: Full-time
Duration: 4 years

Admission Requirements

• Mean grade of C+ (plus) for Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) holders or its equivalent as determined by the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC);
• KNEC diploma or its equivalent

Schedule of Intakes

September (Beginning of each academic year)

How to Apply

1. How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions
KAFU offers applicants two main application pathways: the quicker online method and the traditional manual submission method.

A. Online Application
This is the preferred and most direct method for submitting your application.

• Visit the Portal: Go to the official KAFU admissions platform: https://kafu.jiunge.com/
• Sign Up: Create an account on the Jiunge platform by entering your personal details and verifying your email address.
• Programme Application: Log in and navigate to the program application section. Select the course you wish to apply for.
• Pay Application Fee: Pay the required non-refundable application fee through Jiunge App directly through the platform.
• Review & Feedback: The application will be reviewed. Check your email for official feedback and next steps from the KAFU Registry department.

B. Manual Application
Applicants may also choose to download the relevant application form from the KAFU website, fill it out manually, and submit it physically:

• Complete: Fill out the form completely and accurately.
• Attach Documents: Attach certified copies of all necessary academic certificates, national ID/birth certificate, and transcripts.
• Pay Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee via Jiunge app
• Submit: Submit the completed form, required documents, and bank deposit slip to the Registrar (Academic Affairs) at Kaimosi Friends University.

2. Application Deadlines/Intakes
KAFU typically conducts admissions for its programs based on the main academic year cycle.

Major Intake: The primary intake for new students (including KUCCPS-placed students) is generally in September (e.g., the beginning of the Academic Year).

Career Opportunities

1. Financial Services & Banking
   • Investment Analyst: Evaluating stocks, bonds, and other investments for firms like Genghis Capital or Dyer & Blair.
   • Quantitative Analyst (Quant): Designing complex mathematical models to price financial instruments and manage risk for top-tier banks like NCBA or Stanbic.
   • Credit Risk Manager: Using algorithms to predict the probability of loan defaults, a critical role in digital lending platforms like M-Shwari or Tala.
2. Tech & Data Science (High Growth)
   • Data Scientist: Analyzing consumer behavior and market trends for companies like Safaricom or Jumia.
   • Econometrician: Developing mathematical models to forecast economic trends for tech-driven research firms.
   • Systems Analyst: Bridging the gap between business requirements and IT solutions, ensuring economic logic is correctly built into corporate software.
3. Public Sector & Policy Think-Tanks
   • Economist: Working at the National Treasury or the Ministry of Planning to formulate fiscal policies based on data.
   • Research Analyst: Conducting policy research at KIPPRA or the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
   • Statistician: Managing national datasets at the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS).
4. International NGOs & Consultancy
   • Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Specialist: Tracking the economic impact of projects for organizations like the World Bank, UN, or USAID.
   • Management Consultant: Solving complex business problems for firms like PwC, Deloitte, or KPMG.
5. Emerging Fields
   • FinTech Developer: Building the next generation of digital payment systems or blockchain applications.
   • Actuarial Assistant: Working in the insurance sector (e.g., Britam, Jubilee) to model financial uncertainty.

Outstanding Alumni

Vincent Bwana
Adeline Mwende

Industrial Attachment Opportunities

1. Financial Institutions & Fintech
   • These are the highest-value placements for your specific “triple” skillset.
   • Central Bank of Kenya (CBK): Apply to the Research, Monetary Policy, or Financial Markets departments. They look for students who can model economic trends.
   • Commercial Banks (Equity, KCB, Stanbic): Target the Credit Risk, Treasury, or Business Intelligence units where they use math and IT to manage money.
   • Safaricom (Financial Services): Work with the M-Pesa team in Data Analytics or Product Development to see how economic logic drives digital currency.
2. Government Planning & Policy
   • Ideal for those who want to see how economics affects national development.
   • The National Treasury: Look for opportunities in the Macroeconomic Policy or Budget departments.
   • Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS): Perfect for applying your Econometrics and IT skills by processing national survey and census data.
   • Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA): Focus on the Tax Statistics or Revenue Analysis units, which use models to forecast collections.
   • KIPPRA (Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis): They offer highly structured programs for students interested in Policy Modeling.
3. Investment & Asset Management
   • Use your math skills to help manage wealth.
   • Capital Markets Authority (CMA): Understand how the stock market is regulated through data.
   • Investment Firms (Cytonn, Zimele, Genghis Capital): Placements in Investment Analysis or Fund Management.
   • NSE (Nairobi Securities Exchange): Experience how real-time trading systems integrate with economic market forces.
4. Research & International NGOs
   • World Bank / IMF (Local Offices): Occasional internships for students with strong quantitative and economic backgrounds.
   • ILRI / KEMRI: Often need students for Impact Assessment and Resource Optimization modeling.

Attachment Eligibility and Duration (When Students Qualify and Placement Length)

• Duration: The attachment is a mandatory 8 to 12-week (two to three months) program.
• Eligibility: Students must have completed their core academic coursework to qualify for placement.

Attachment Application Requirements

7. Academic & Administrative Requirements
• Course Completion: Students must have successfully completed all core units leading up to the attachment period.
• Field Relevance: The host organization must provide a work environment specifically focused on Statistics or data analysis.
• Insurance & Paperwork: Students must obtain a formal Introduction Letter from the Department and ensure they are covered by the University’s personal accident insurance.

8. Application Procedures
• Placement Identification: The student/department identifies a potential host station (e.g., KNBS, research firms, or corporate data departments).
• Request for Attachment: Submit the University’s introductory letter to the selected organization.
• Task Approval: Once a position is offered, the student must have their specific work plan vetted and approved by the department lecturer.
• Registration: Formally register the attachment with the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, providing the contact details of the on-site supervisor for future assessment scheduling.

9. Pre-Departure Requirements
• Software Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with current statistical packages (e.g., SPSS, R, STATA, or Python) as these are expected tools in the field.
• Logbook Collection: Obtain the official department logbook to record daily activities and technical skills developed.

Contacts of Support Persons

1. Dr. Samuel Apima – Mobile Number: 0714 295 941, Email: sapima@kafu.ac.ke
2. Dr. Amos Wanjara – Mobile Number: 0729 212 387, Email: awanjara@kafu.ac.ke
3. Dr. John Chibayi – Mobile Number: 0712 498 360, Email: jchibayi@kafu.ac.ke

Finance: Fees and Funding

The tuition fee is Ksh 224,800 per year.

Students can access Higher Education Financing (HEF), which includes HELB loans and Government Scholarships, as well as various bursaries provided by constituencies (NG-CDF), counties, and NGOs.