Paper identifies gaps in the training of biotechnology students

Report Identifies Critical Gaps in Kenya’s Biotechnology Training
A new study has exposed significant shortcomings in the training of biotechnology professionals in Kenya, revealing a mismatch between university curricula and the evolving demands of the country’s growing bio-economy. The research paper, conducted by a consortium of academic and industry stakeholders, concludes that this skills gap is hindering Kenya’s ability to harness biotechnology in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing.
The report details a disconnect between theoretical knowledge taught in lecture halls and the practical, hands-on skills required in the job market. It identifies a particular shortage of expertise in advanced areas like genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular diagnostics. Furthermore, the study highlights inadequate laboratory infrastructure in many institutions and a lack of strong, structured industry attachment programs, leaving graduates ill-prepared to contribute effectively to research and development or commercial biotech applications.
The findings have sparked concern among employers and educators. We are producing bright graduates with strong theoretical foundations, but they often require extensive and costly retraining to handle the sophisticated equipment and regulatory frameworks we use daily, noted a manager at a leading agricultural research institute. In response, several universities have signaled plans to review their syllabi, with an emphasis on increasing practical modules, investing in modern lab equipment, and forging stronger links with biotech firms for internship opportunities.
The long-term implications of addressing these gaps are substantial. A better-trained biotech workforce is seen as essential for driving innovation in critical areas such as developing drought-resistant crops, creating affordable local pharmaceuticals, and advancing waste-to-energy solutions. By aligning academic training with national economic priorities, Kenya can unlock the full potential of its biotechnology sector, fostering homegrown innovation that tackles local challenges while boosting the country’s competitiveness in the global bio-economy.