Industrial Attachment Report

MASENO UNIVERSITY INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT REPORT DAVIS BENZIE WEKESA CIM/00008/020 Bsc INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT STIMA-SACCO PLAZA, MUSEMBI Rd, Parklands P.O BOX 75629 -0200, NAIROBI. 3RD JUNE 2024 – JULY 2024 SUPERVISOR: PHILLIP BUTOYI JULY 2024  DECLARATION I declare that this industrial attachment report is authentic, honest and original to the best of my knowledge and complete coverage of what I did during my attachment exercise at Stima Sacco (parklands, Nairobi), and has not been presented for a degree or any other award in any institution of higher learning for academic publication or any other purpose. Name: DAVIS BENZIE WEKESA. Signature:___________________ Date: ____________ ACKNOWLEDGMENT This attachment would not have been successful without the cooperation and support of a number of people who enabled me to gain much more than what the industrial attachment could have offered. First, I would like to give my appreciation to God for the charitable time, good health, strength and aptitude that enabled me to complete my attachment period. Secondly, I am profoundly grateful to Stima Sacco for providing me an opportunity to undertake my industrial attachment within their esteemed organization. The experience gained has been invaluable and has significantly enhanced my practical skills and knowledge. I extend my sincere thanks to my supervisor Phillip Butoyi for his guidance and constructive criticisms, Mrs. Jemimah who gave me the opportunity for attachment, and Stima Sacco ICT department for accommodating me and guiding me throughout the attachment period. Their cooperation and willingness to include me in various tasks and projects greatly contributed to my learning. A special Thanks to Maseno University academic staff that has imparted their vast knowledge that has assisted me during the attachment period. Special thanks to my academic supervisor Mr Gabriel Oliko, Madam Rennish Mboya for their guidance and constructive criticism. Lastly I want to thank my parents and family for their continued and selfless support towards my education and my career. Their prayers and support have remained unrelenting. May God bless you all. DEDICATION I wish to dedicate this work to my loving Parents and family; their teachings support and sacrifice has been inspirational, and I wouldn’t have been able do this without them.  Table of Contents DECLARATION 2 ACKNOWLEDGMENT 3 DEDICATION 4 Table of Contents 5 CHAPTER 1 7 1.1 INTRODUCTION 7 1.2 Objectives of the industrial attachment. 7 1.3 Background of Stima Sacco Society Limited 8 1.4 Mission, Vision and Core Values of Stima Sacco. 8 1.4.1 Mission 8 1.4.2 Vision 9 1.4.3 Core Values 9 1.5 Organizational Structure 10 1.6 Description of Workplace. 12 CHAPTER 2 13 2.1 Attachment Experiences 13 2.2 General Activities undertaken 13 2.3 Specific Activities undertaken 13 2.3.1 Software 13 2.3.2 Hardware 13 2.3.3 Networking 14 2.3.4 Help Desk 14 2.4 An analysis of learned Knowledge and applied skills 15 2.4.1 Applied Skills 15 2.5 Learnt Knowledge 15 2.6 A profile of skills and competencies gained /acquired. 15 2.7 Observation and critique 16 Summary 17 Conclusion 17 RECCOMENDATION 18  COURSE SUMMARY This report compiled in partial fulfillment of Bachelor of science in Information Communication Technology Management at Maseno University and serves to provide an overview of what the student learned during the attachment period at Stima DT Sacco for the 8-week training. The report gives a brief description of the history of the institution and the functions performed. The institution’s complete range of activities involved in IT department is mentioned. Institution’s hierarchy chart and a brief introduction of ICT department where the student was attached is outlined. The duties that were assigned to the student and knowledge and skills that were acquired are explained in detail. Evaluation of the institution on SWOT analysis is explained at length at the end of the report including conclusions and recommendations for the future of the institution.  CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Industrial attachments are a vital part of acquiring comprehensive education in Information Communication Technology (ICT) Management. At Maseno University, they form an integral component that transitions academic understanding into practical skill sets and insights within real-world industrial settings for up to 12 weeks at a time. Objectives of the industrial attachment. The objectives encompassed by the attachment are multi fold: Skill development It nurtures not only professional skills through hands-on experience but also fosters experiential learning, helping students appreciate industry norms and challenges firsthand in their respective fields. Networking It further provides networking opportunities where participants can build relationships with professionals that may lead to career prospects down the line. Resume enhancement Another benefit as it adds tangible evidence of real-world work experience directly related to one's field, bolstering employment potential significantly. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills Problem solving and critical thinking skills are honed during these attachments due to frequent encounters with difficulties that arise in professional environments which demand immediate resolutions—an excellent way for students to develop robust on-the-spot decision making abilities vital within the fast-paced world of ICT. Personal growth Beyond this, industrial attachment offers personal growth by expanding one's comfort zone and providing an avenue for developing soft skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability etc., all while gaining insight into company culture which can prove instrumental in their future professional life. Feedback Feedback is actively encouraged to ensure continuous improvement of language used without alteration of the original context or meaning—this ensures that students not only learn by doing but also become effective communicators within and beyond Maseno University's academic environment. Background of Stima Sacco Society Limited Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (SACCO) Stima Sacco Society Limited is a respected organization with headquarters in Kenya. The Kenya Power Company, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), and many other power-related organizations are among the main clients of the company, which primarily services employees in the energy sector. With the purpose of encouraging a saving culture and offering its members accessible credit options, Stima Sacco was founded in 1974. In order to offer financial services and support to its employees, the Kenya Power Company established Stima Sacco in 1974. The SACCO has grown its membership over time to include personnel from various energy-related businesses. The Kenya Power Company and KenGen personnel make up the majority of Stima Sacco's membership. Members of other power-related organizations, such as rural electrification agencies and other energy sector organizations like KETRACO and NUPEA, are also permitted. A variety of financial goods and services are only a few of the services provided by Stima Sacco to its members. These consist of investment options, loans (both personal and development loans), fixed deposits, and savings accounts. The SACCO focuses on encouraging members to practice frugal living and to save and invest for their long-term financial security. It has had substantial development and expansion over the years. To further serve its expanding membership base, Stima Sacco has opened multiple branches and service centers throughout Kenya. Kawi, Eldoret, Olkaria, Parklands, E-House, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kisii, Meru, Embu, Kimathi, Nakuru, and Nairobi make up its thirteen branches in total. Community improvement and social responsibility are important to Stima Sacco. To have a beneficial effect on the communities it serves, the SACCO takes part in several activities, such as promoting health, education, and other humanitarian organizations. Mission, Vision and Core Values of Stima Sacco. Mission The mission of Stima Sacco Society Limited is to: "To mobilize savings and provide affordable credit while delivering exceptional member experience and value." The main goals and purposes of Stima Sacco are reflected in this mission statement. It describes Sacco’s dedication to encouraging members to save, providing them with inexpensive credit options, and making sure that being a member is an amazing experience overall. The Sacco’s commitment to offering useful and pertinent financial solutions to its members is highlighted by the emphasis on value. Vision The vision of Stima Sacco Society Limited is: “To be a leading and preferred SACCO in Africa, providing excellent financial solutions to our members.” This mission statement represents Stima Sacco's goal of being a well-known and favored savings and credit cooperative society throughout Africa, not just in Kenya. It highlights the Sacco's dedication to offering top-notch financial products and services that satisfy the requirements and demands of its members. Core Values Professionalism: The Sacco ensures it conducts itself professionally in all of its interactions with internal and external stakeholders by displaying a high degree of professionalism, skill, and knowledge in all facets of the Sacco's operations. Innovative: The Sacco uses innovation to respond to the evolving requirements of their clients while taking prudent risks to build wealth. Team Work The Sacco puts a lot of effort into teamwork because that’s how important each and everyone’s roles is to the success of SIC. Caring The Sacco is enthusiastic about safeguarding the security and growth of our customers' lives and investments. Social responsibility Pledging to positively influence society through a variety of programs that support social progress and neighborhood growth. Organizational Structure  Stima Sacco has a hierarchical organizational structure, consisting of a governance layer, an executive management team and various operational departments. They are as follows: General Assembly: the highest decision-making body, composed of all members, which meets annually to discuss and approve key issues like elections, financial statements and amendments to the by laws Board of Directors: Elected by the members during the general assembly, this group provides oversight and strategic direction. The board includes: Chairperson: Dr. (Eng.) Joseph Siror National Vice Chairman: Eng Peter Njenga National Treasurer: Mrs Mary Maalu Honorary Secretary: Osman Khatolwa [ICUDE, ADE] Director: Eng Rosemary Oduor Director: Geoffrey Muli Director: CPA Lwanga Erambo Viketi Director: FCPA John Mudany Supervisory Committee: An independent body for responsible for auditing and ensuring that the Sacco’s operations comply with regulations and policies The day-to-day affairs of the Sacco are led by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Dr Gamaliel Hassan, who is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Sacco. He is assisted by various departments at the headquarters including: Human Resource Department: Handles employee-related matters such as communication, administration, learning & development, rewards management, and staff welfare. Marketing Department: Responsible for maintaining brand integrity across all company communications and marketing initiatives. They work closely with the Brand Officer to create and deliver the brand profile and corresponding materials, while also seeking out new partnerships and initiatives to boost Stima Sacco's brand profile. Legal Department: In charge of managing all legal matters and defending the corporation in court. This department is responsible for reviewing logbooks valuations and titling deeds provided as security or securities for loans. Finance Department: Manages the Sacco's financial resources responsibly by developing and implementing sound financial strategies, plans, policies, and processes; ensuring efficient use of financial resources; controlling budgets and costs; managing revenue; managing financial risk; and coordinating both external and internal audits. Procurement Department: Focuses on providing an efficient and continuous flow of goods and services to increase the Sacco's competitiveness. They aim to reduce transaction costs, paper transactions, and inventories while providing high-quality products and services at affordable prices. Corporate Communications: Ensures effective communication with Stima Sacco's stakeholders and the broader public as a public organization and industry regulator. This division is responsible for establishing and upholding reliable, timely, and consistent communications with all stakeholders. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Department: Handles all communications and information technology systems, including developing, deploying, and supporting innovative ICT solutions and services that meet the ever-changing needs of the organization. Internal Audit: Ensures compliance with policies and standards to achieve the strategic goals of the organization by reviewing operations across departments and providing training, risk management, mitigation, and quality assurance. Customer Experience Department: Handles face-to-face interactions and calls from existing and potential members, offering support, addressing issues, and providing needed information to keep members satisfied. Insurance Department (Mpawa Insurance Agency): Offers all classes of insurance, both life and non-life, including medical products. The agency also provides claim and risk management services to members and non-members. Credit Department: Responsible for establishing and implementing an appropriate credit risk management framework in line with the Sacco's strategic plan, policies, laws, and best financial service industry practices. Security: Responsible for providing the security of the organization’s assets, members and employees. These departments work together to maintain Stima Sacco's competitiveness and provide high-quality products and services to its members while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Description of Workplace. The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Department at Stima Sacco plays a crucial role in providing essential technology services to both the headquarters at Parklands, Nairobi and its 13 branches throughout the country. Comprised of various professionals, this department is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, management, and enhancement of IT systems. Some of the tasks handled by the ICT department include system troubleshooting, network management, software installation, and user support. This ensures that all staff members have access to reliable technological resources, enabling them to carry out their duties efficiently and effectively.  CHAPTER 2 Attachment Experiences General Activities undertaken A typical working day in the ICT department starts at 8:00 am, This when most of the branches open for work and when most of the staff report to their workstation. The department provides support for both hardware and software issues, manages the company’s network and data security, and assists with technical issues faced by other departments. Specific Activities undertaken Software Software installation, and configuration and conducting post-installation testing to ensure proper functioning Installation of Operating system (Windows !0 pro / 11 pro) Configuring freshly installed computers into the domain. Downloading the Sacco specific software for business and Security from a shared folder in the server Running updates and installing all the needed computer drives. Documenting, flashing and storing of the decommissioned computers. Maintenance of computer example; Blowing off dust, performing updates and disk cleanup Hardware Setting up new workstation for new employees Decommissioning of old computers and replacing them. Upgrading computers, e.g.; Increasing the RAM, Replacing HDD to SSD. Replacing faulty peripherals, for example keyboards, monitors, mouse, etc. Repossessing and issuing of new or refurbished laptops. Changing Batteries from faulty UPS  Networking Crimping and testing Cat 5 Ethernet cables. Cable management in offices and server room. Troubleshooting network ports. Whitelisting Ethernet adapters in the antivirus admin panel. Help Desk Receiving and responding to calls from remote staff. Guiding Remote staff on how to identify and troubleshoot some of the computer problems. Providing support to users with network issues. Raising issues to the on-system failure and slow response to the system admins for resolving.  An analysis of learned Knowledge and applied skills Applied Skills Computer Organizational skills while performing backups, documentation, record keeping, data transfer and software installation. IT hardware and support skills while performing maintenance, upgrading and handling of computer hardware. Networking skills in troubleshooting switches and repair of network cables. Communication skills and public relations while receiving calls and during intercommunication with the staff. Research skills, when encountered with an unknown task. Learnt Knowledge The industrial attachment at Stima Sacco built my confidence and skills on how to be responsible, ethical, work under pressure, accountability as well as appreciation of the importance of embracing team spirit, being committed, paying attention to details, dedication while working in any organization. I had the privilege of being included in the team that attended conferences and workshops where various companies showcased their solutions for enhancing business efficiency, security, and effectiveness. During these events, I learned about innovative tools and technologies, such as FortiNAC for network access control, Huawei's advanced networking and telecommunications solutions, and ManageEngine's comprehensive IT management software. These experiences provided valuable insights into implementing cutting-edge technologies to improve business operations and security. A profile of skills and competencies gained /acquired. IT Management: Exposure to tools like ManageEngine has enhanced skills in IT management, streamlining operations, monitoring performance, and optimizing resource use, which contributes to more efficient and effective IT support. Advanced Security Knowledge: Learning about security solutions from companies like FortiNAC and Symantec has provided a deep understanding of how to implement and manage advanced security measures, ensuring the protection of sensitive data and safeguarding the organization against cyber threats. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: The experience with troubleshooting various issues, such as using Hiren's Boot CD for password resets, and handling hardware repairs, has developed strong problem-solving skills, allowing for quick and effective resolution of technical issues. Professional Development: The attachment period has provided hands-on experience and practical knowledge, contributing to professional growth and preparing for future roles in IT and technology management. Networking Skills: Proficiency in the termination, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of network devices has been developed. This includes the ability to effectively set up and manage network infrastructure, ensure optimal performance of network components, and resolve connectivity issues swiftly, thereby supporting a stable and efficient network environment Observation and critique Strengths of the Sacco’s ICT department. The Sacco has made significant investments in its ICT infrastructure to ensure robust security, reliability, and comprehensive support for both members and staff. Technical expertise possessed by the staff ensures that they can diagnose and troubleshoot technical issues, implement solutions, and maintain system stability. This expertise allows them to address and resolve problems quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and ensuring that the organization's IT infrastructure operates smoothly. The security practices in place ensure that sensitive information is protected and help maintain control over domain access by enforcing strict security policies and procedures. These include following the chain of command for authorization, implementing multi-factor authentication, conducting regular audits, and ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to critical systems. This structured approach minimizes the risk of unauthorized access and ensures that all actions are traceable and accountable. Support for end-users, such as reassigning functional laptops and addressing technical issues, demonstrates a commitment to equipping all staff with the necessary tools to perform their roles efficiently and effectively. At Stima Sacco, the ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies is evident in the use of advanced tools like ManageEngine for IT management, Symantec for endpoint protection, CrowdStrike for cybersecurity, and FortiNAC for network access control. These tools demonstrate the team's innovation and resourcefulness in effectively managing and securing the IT infrastructure. Weaknesses of the Stima Sacco department. A notable weakness of Stima Sacco is the absence of an on-site ICT department at its branches. This limitation can lead to delays in addressing technical issues, reduced support availability for staff, and a potential increase in downtime for critical services, as remote troubleshooting and support may not be as efficient as having dedicated personnel on-site.  Summary During the attachment period at Stima Sacco, I gained hands-on experience and valuable skills in various aspects of ICT. I was involved in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues, such as handling trust relationship problems with laptops and performing hardware repairs. I also developed proficiency in network management, including the termination, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of network devices. I had the opportunity to be part of a team that attended conferences and workshops where companies showcased solutions for enhancing business efficiency, security, and effectiveness. This exposure provided insights into advanced technologies and tools, such as FortiNAC, Huawei networking solutions, and ManageEngine, which are crucial for improving IT management and security practices. The attachment period not only deepened my technical expertise but also honed my problem-solving skills and understanding of innovative technologies. Overall, the experience contributed to my professional growth and prepared me to effectively support and advance the ICT capabilities at Stima Sacco. Conclusion In conclusion, my attachment experience at Stima Sacco has been an invaluable journey that has greatly enhanced my understanding of the ICT field. Working alongside skilled professionals and engaging in real-world technical tasks has provided me with a deep insight into the complexities of IT operations within a corporate environment. Throughout this period, I have not only applied the theoretical knowledge from my studies but also gained a range of practical skills. These include troubleshooting technical issues, managing network devices, and implementing advanced technologies like FortiNAC, Huawei solutions, and ManageEngine. Additionally, I have developed crucial soft skills such as effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential in any ICT role. One of the key takeaways from this attachment is the realization of how rapidly the technology landscape evolves. Staying current with the latest advancements and being adaptable are crucial for success in the ICT sector. Moreover, the importance of maintaining strong security practices and ethical standards in technology management has been underscored throughout my experience. As I return to my studies, I am confident that the knowledge and skills gained during my attachment will serve as a strong foundation for my future career in ICT. This experience has not only deepened my passion for the field but also clarified the specific areas I wish to pursue further. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Stima Sacco for this exceptional opportunity, and to my supervisors and colleagues for their guidance and support. I am excited to apply what I have learned to my remaining academic work and look forward to contributing meaningfully to the ICT industry in the future.  RECCOMENDATION Based on my attachment experience at Stima Sacco, I would recommend the following: Enhance On-Site Support: Implementing dedicated on-site ICT support at branch locations would improve the efficiency of addressing technical issues, reduce downtime, and provide more immediate assistance to staff. Foster Innovation: Encouraging a culture of innovation within the ICT department by supporting experimentation with new technologies and methodologies can drive continuous improvement and keep the organization competitive. Asset Management: Implement a more robust system for record-keeping on ICT assets. Establishing a comprehensive asset management system will improve tracking, documentation, and management of all ICT equipment. This should include detailed records of asset inventory, including purchase dates, serial numbers, maintenance history, and current status. Such a system will facilitate better asset allocation, ensure timely updates and replacements, and enhance overall management efficiency. Regular audits and updates to the asset records will also help in optimizing resource use and minimizing losses.  References Stima Sacco. (n.d.). Stima Sacco official website. Retrieved August 4, 2024, from https://www.stima-sacco.com/ Studocu. (n.d.). Studocu official website. Retrieved August 6, 2024, from https://www.studocu.com/row/home 19