The government has intensified efforts to enhance collaboration between universities and industry sectors to ensure graduates develop pertinent, market-responsive skills, coinciding with the launch of Kenyatta University’s (KU) 19th Annual Career Week.
At the opening ceremony held at the university’s main campus, Principal Secretary (PS) for Industry Dr Juma Mukhwana emphasized that stronger university-industry partnerships are essential for aligning educational programs with labor market demands and Kenya’s industrialization goals.
Mukhwana highlighted that the Career Week offers a crucial opportunity for students to directly interact with industry representatives, understand emerging trends, and adjust their expectations as they transition from academic settings to professional environments.
“We are here today at Kenyatta University for the 19th Career Week, which fundamentally involves students engaging with industry, understanding various professions, and synchronizing their training, learning, and expectations with real-world situations,” stated the PS.
Furthermore, he praised the university for establishing this annual forum, noting that many graduates face challenges after completing their studies due to limited exposure to industry dynamics and practical career guidance.
“Most of us teach and then leave students to navigate the challenging world of employment or entrepreneurship independently. I want to sincerely thank the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Okumu, and his team for creating this platform where young people can meet industry professionals, share their aspirations and concerns, and learn about developments in their fields,” expressed Dr Mukhwana.
Additionally, the PS stressed that industry-required skills are rapidly evolving due to technological advancements, automation, and digitalization, urging universities to remain adaptable and responsive to these changes.
He also encouraged higher education institutions to collaborate closely with industry stakeholders in designing and revising academic programs.
“Skills in industry are highly dynamic; they transform daily. Universities must be receptive and collaborate with us to identify new skill areas so that updated programs can be developed. We want graduates who can adapt to the real world where we manufacture, produce, and create value,” he urged.
Addressing concerns raised by students regarding unemployment and perceived limited job opportunities, Dr Mukhwana disputed the narrative that Kenya’s manufacturing sector is declining, asserting that it remains one of the economy’s strongest pillars.
“Manufacturing is the second largest employer in the country, employing approximately 500,000 people. We continue witnessing two to three new factories commencing operations monthly. The notion that conditions are extremely dire is not entirely accurate,” he reiterated.
Equally, the PS pointed out that Kenya continues to attract significant investor interest, citing the high demand for space in newly established industrial parks as evidence of confidence in the sector.
“For instance, in Kirinyaga County, we recently completed a County Aggregation and Industrial Park capable of accommodating eight factories. When we advertised, we received 68 applications from investors interested in establishing manufacturing operations there. That reveals the actual situation,” Dr Mukhwana revealed.
Moreover, the PS encouraged young people to explore opportunities in value addition, particularly in agriculture-based manufacturing, noting that processing products such as macadamia, avocado, milk, and tea presents substantial potential for job creation and economic growth.
“Manufacturing contributes nearly 10 percent to our Gross Domestic Product. That is not insignificant, but there remains room for expansion. Young Kenyans should not be discouraged from entering this sector; this is where opportunities lie,” he reaffirmed.
Dr Mukhwana further urged students to extend beyond classroom learning and proactively acquire emerging skills in areas such as artificial intelligence, software engineering, networking, and industrial automation.
“Industries are becoming more automated and intelligent. We want factories capable of communication, problem detection, and efficient operation. Students must be innovative and willing to acquire new skills, both within and outside the university, to maintain competitiveness,” he asserted.
Beyond economic achievements, the PS challenged students to contemplate their broader purpose and societal impact, stating that financial success alone should not define accomplishment.
“At the end of the day, success is not measured by wealth accumulation, but by the difference you make. Each individual is unique, and the fundamental question is what changed because you existed. You must strive to leave a positive mark on society,” he posited.
In addition, he called on young people to transcend fear and complacency, emphasizing that Kenya’s journey toward industrialization represents a historic opportunity.
“This is Kenya’s moment to industrialize. This is Africa’s moment to create prosperity. And this is your moment to build, innovate, and transform the world,” rallied Dr. Mukhwana.
Meanwhile, students attending the event reported that the engagement had substantially transformed their perspective on employment and career planning.
Amani Joshua, a Kenyatta University student, observed that the forum had inspired optimism and confidence among learners.
“Initially, many students believed job opportunities were scarce and the market was inaccessible. However, after hearing the PS and other speakers, our perspective has shifted. We are now considering entrepreneurship rather than merely seeking employment,” he contemplated.
Joshua, who is studying Community Resource Management, also mentioned that students are increasingly willing to collaborate with communities and explore alternative career pathways.
“We are motivated and prepared to take any necessary steps, including working with communities and contributing to society. Today’s event has truly had a positive impact on us,” he affirmed.
Kenyatta University’s Career Week unites students, academia, industry leaders, and policymakers, reinforcing the role of higher education institutions in advancing skills development, innovation, and Kenya’s long-term economic transformation.