Maasai Mara University Chancellor Dr Vimal Shah has called for more substantial alignment between academic training and the needs of the labour market, saying institutions of higher learning must produce graduates equipped with practical skills and ethical values.
Dr Vimal Shah said the universities should embed industry-driven skills into their programmes.
Shah said graduates must be trained to solve real-world problems rather than rely solely on academic qualifications.
“The job market is evolving rapidly, and universities must evolve with it. Students must leave campus with skills, discipline and the right attitude to work.” Dr Shah said.
His sentiments follow the university’s 13th graduation ceremony, where more than 2,000 students graduated across various disciplines. Twenty-three graduated with a Master’s, while eight graduated with a PhD.
This year’s theme was “Innovating to Transform: Graduates Shaping Societies”.
Shah emphasised the importance of integrity, accountability and continuous learning, saying these values were critical in both professional and public life.
He challenged students to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, noting that self-employment and enterprise development were increasingly important in addressing unemployment.
The chancellor also called on universities to strengthen partnerships with industry players to ensure training remains relevant and aligned with market needs.
“Industry is ready to work with universities to offer mentorship, internships and practical exposure,” he said.
READ ALSO:
Private Senior Schools are just as good for Grade 10—Parents should keep an open mind
He commended the university leadership for its efforts to improve academic standards and governance, saying that strong institutions were vital for national development.
On his part, Council Chair Dr Kennedy Ole Kerei said good governance remained central to the stability and growth of universities.
He noted that the university council was focused on providing strategic oversight, ensuring accountability and supporting management in delivering quality education.
“Our role is to safeguard the institution and ensure it operates transparently and sustainably,” Dr Kerei said.
He said the council had prioritised the prudent use of resources, improved financial management, and infrastructure development to support teaching and learning.
Dr Kerei acknowledged challenges facing universities, including funding constraints and rising costs, but said strong leadership and collaboration would help institutions remain resilient.
He also stressed the importance of trust between management, staff, students and external stakeholders, noting that public confidence was essential for institutional success.
Institution Vice-Chancellor Prof. Peninah Aloo-Obudho said universities have a responsibility to respond to changing economic and technological realities.
“Our mandate is not limited to teaching and research. We must ensure our graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to national development,” She said.
She noted that the institution has intensified curriculum reviews, expanded research output and strengthened partnerships with industry to enhance student exposure to practical training.
The Vice-Chancellor said collaboration with the private sector was key to improving employability and innovation, adding that universities must remain responsive to national priorities.
Prof Aloo emphasised that education at her institution goes beyond the classroom and theory.
She highlighted the university’s strategic location at the entrance to the Maasai Mara National Reserve as an opportunity for students to learn in proximity to living ecosystems.
This location, she noted, provides a unique context for courses in tourism, conservation and natural resource management.
“Education that does not prepare students for real life is incomplete. Our industrial attachments, field courses and engagement with industry ensure that graduates are capable of solving real-world problems and contributing meaningfully to society,” said Prof Aloo.
The university boss also highlighted the university’s commitment to quality and international standards, and they have implemented an Integrated Management System, combining ISO 9001 for Quality Management, ISO 21001 for Educational Organisations, and ISO 27001 for Information Security.
“This ensures that degrees conferred to students are backed by internationally recognised systems guaranteeing academic excellence, service delivery and data protection,” she said.
She also emphasised the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the University’s operations to prepare for the future.
By our reporter
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
