Dean’s Letter – Start of Semester 1, 2026

For our new cohort starting your journey with us, congratulations on taking the next step in your future. It is a great privilege to support each new cohort that is the next generation of change-makers - positively shaping society, policy and organisations.

Dear students,

Wominjeka (welcome) to your first semester of 2026.

As Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, I extend a warm welcome to a new and inspiring year ahead. Come ready to learn, to be challenged, to try new experiences, and to grow and flourish as part of our community.

For our new cohort starting your journey with us, congratulations on taking the next step in your future. It is a great privilege to support each new cohort that is the next generation of changemakers - positively shaping society, policy and organisations.

Since our humble beginnings in 1924, The Faculty of Business and Economics has empowered over 81,000 alumni across 100 countries to lead and drive transformative change for a better future.

The economy is constantly evolving and becoming increasingly competitive. Through research and industry insights, our curriculum adapts to ensure you graduate not just ready for the workforce, but to prepare you to lead and innovate.

Throughout your time here, you’ll have opportunities to connect with your peers and industry leaders, engage in transformative experiences and discover who you are – shaping your future and the impact you want to make on the world.

To our returning students, I hope you had a wonderful break over the summer period and have returned this semester feeling refreshed and prepared for the year ahead.

If you need guidance about subject selection, please reach out to available support staff.

Those who fail to prepare, prepare to fail. And what better way to get ahead by attending orientation week. Not only will you get to know your faculty, there’s also plenty of exciting events and activities to explore the vibrant campus community, forge new friendships and get you yourself set up for success.

We also have invaluable information and support under one central hub, with plenty of resources designed to help you feel prepared and confident. You also have access to a wide range of student support networks—from career guidance and accommodation to IT help, mental health services, and beyond.

Important dates, study opportunities, and enrichment activities will be communicated with you regularly from our student support team, so please ensure your email is set up and ready to go.

The Faculty of Business and Economics holds events for the wider community which you can also attend, such as public lectures and conferences. You can learn about these via our newsroom and social media platforms.

This is my final welcome message as Dean, as I will be stepping down in June this year. It has been an honour to welcome new and returning students each year and to witness the remarkable impact Alumni go on to make in the world.

Whether you are just beginning your studies or continuing your education journey, I wish you the best for the year ahead. I have every confidence that you will continue to achieve everything you set your mind to, and I look forward to seeing all that you accomplish.

All my best,

Paul Kofman  
Dean, Faculty of Business and Economics

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