The young people were also challenged to look beyond traditional employment
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Mount Kenya University Vice Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi (left), Dr. Julius Kipng’etich, MKU Dr. Vincent Gaitho, and Mount Kenya University Chancellor Prof. John Struthers during MKU’s 29th Graduation Ceremony at the Graduation Pavilion in Thika. Dr. Kipng’etich challenged the graduates to look beyond their academic qualifications and embrace lifelong learning, ethical and responsible leadership, creativity and innovation as they step into a rapidly changing world/Cantona Joseph
Mount Kenya University on Friday celebrated the 29th graduation ceremony amid calls for graduates to embrace artificial intelligence, digital skills and emerging technologies as they navigate a fast changing job market. The young people were also challenged to look beyond traditional employment, use technology to create opportunities and businesses and apply AI responsibly as they seek to shape Kenya’s economic and social future.Dr Julius Kipngetich, chief executive officer Jubilee Holdings, who was the chief guest during the graduation ceremony, said the society could not afford to ignore its young people, who have now become an integral pillar. He also noted that for the youth to advance, they had to embrace emerging technologies responsibly.“The youth stand at the bridge of accountability and service that this county and its institutions are demanded of,” said Kipngetich in his keynote speech during the function held at the MKU Graduation Pavillion Happy Valley Gardens in Thika.“The political consciousness this generation has shown is a wake-up call to those in leadership whether private or public sector. We are reminded that the youth of this country carry a special responsibility in shaping modern and future Kenya.”He further pointed at numerous opportunities in the country, noting that for the young people entering the job market, it was important to figure out where opportunities lie. “Kenya is ranked the third largest economy in Africa (US$136 billion in GDP). Our leading sectors for job creation are Manufacturing, Agriculture, Wholesale and retail, Education and Construction in that order. This evidence provides us with hope of a better tomorrow, if we all actively and responsibly be the agents of change. By moving yourself forward, you also carry the nation forward, hence a collective responsibility,” he said.“Further, if you interrogate these figures, you will realise that social change does not happen if we rely only on employment opportunities created by others, but we also ought to create others as the graduating class of 2026. The multiplier effect of one graduate opening a restaurant and employing a cook, buying food products from the farmer, paying the boda-boda for transport is the multiplier effect example in which we all contribute to the overall employment ecosystem and hence the social change we all desire and be able to eke our living from,” he said. “I encourage you to be responsible citizens. Grasp every opportunity that comes your way.”
Kipngetich also challenged the graduating class to explore opportunities in other markets, noting that success can be found in different areas and countries and by the youth looking at themselves as citizens of Africa and the world.He also urged the graduands not to abandon their quest for knowledge on graduation but to instead continuously “learn, reskill and upskill” especially in the areas of “digital literacy, data and emerging tools such as artificial intelligence, because the jobs of 2030 will demand competencies that we are yet to see”.“The AI revolution has provided opportunities for efficiency but has also encouraged laziness and distortion of truth. Always weigh options and choose the truth and facts. If you question, question as a scientist, because in the lecture halls, you have been crafted as one,” he said.
Prof Deogratius Jaganyi, Vice Chancellor MKU, said the institution had continued to embrace market-driven academic programmes through regular curriculum reviews and revitalisation to ensure relevance and responsiveness to emerging industry needs. We have also integrated technology into teaching and learning to enhance academic delivery and student experience.“In recognition of the growing role of Artificial Intelligence, the University has embraced AI as a transformative tool for teaching, learning, research, and professional development. Through a strategic partnership with Xinyada Information Technology Company of China, we are offering short professional courses and digital skills programmes that equip students and staff with competencies required in today’s digital economy,” he said.“The University continues to align its academic offerings with national development priorities and labour market demands. Through the School of Education and the TVET Equip Africa Institute initiative, MKU is leading the implementation of Competency-Based Education and Training, ensuring learners acquire practical, industry-relevant skills that enhance employability, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning.”“At the postgraduate level, the University Senate has approved programmes in emerging fields such as Health Records Management, Mental Health, and Psychiatric Studies, reinforcing our commitment to producing graduates who respond effectively to evolving societal and workforce needs.”Prof Jaganyi also noted that the university continued to strengthen its position as a leader in research and innovation through strategic partnerships, competitive grant acquisition and global recognition.
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