In a compelling joint presentation at the recent 4^th Global Research Network Symposium, Sr. Dr. Mary Simiyu and Sr. Dr. Lucy Mwesa shared insights from their longitudinal study titled “Education Journey of a Sister.” Their research examined how higher education has shaped the personal growth, leadership, and apostolic impact of Catholic sisters in Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia over the past decade.

Supported by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation through the Higher Education for Sisters in Africa (HESA) and Sisters Leadership Development Initiative (SLDI) programs of African Sisters Education in Africa (ASEC), the study followed 150 sisters from the 2013, 2019, and 2022 cohorts. Through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, it explored the profound ways formal education has influenced the sisters’ spiritual lives, professional competence, and community involvement…