The Principal Secretary (PS) for Industry Dr Juma Mukhwana has called for closer collaboration between universities and industry to ensure graduates are equipped with relevant, market-driven skills.
Speaking during the Kenyatta University 19th Annual Career Week opening ceremony at the university’s main campus, PS Dr Mukhwana noted that stronger university–industry linkages are critical in aligning academic training with the realities of the labour market and the country’s industrialisation agenda.
“Most of us teach and then leave students to navigate the difficult world of employment or entrepreneurship on their own. I want to sincerely thank the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Okumu, and his team for creating this opportunity where young people can meet industry players, share their aspirations and fears, and learn what is new in their professions,” expressed Dr Mukhwana.
Additionally, the PS emphasised that the skills demanded by industry are rapidly evolving due to technological advancement, automation and digitalisation, urging universities to remain flexible and responsive to these changes.
He also encouraged institutions of higher learning to work closely with industry in designing and reviewing academic programmes.
“Skills in industry are very dynamic; they are changing every day. Universities must be open-minded and work with us to identify new skill areas so that new programmes can be developed. We want graduates who can keep pace with the real world where we manufacture, produce and add value,” he urged.
Mukhwana also observed that the Career Week provides a vital platform for students to directly engage with industry players, understand emerging trends, and realign their expectations as they prepare to transition from school to work.
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“We are here today at Kenyatta University for the 19th Career Week, which is essentially about students interacting with industry, learning what goes on in various professions and aligning their training, learning and expectations with real-world situations,” stated the PS.
Further, he commended the university for institutionalising the annual forum, noting that many graduates struggle after completing their studies due to limited exposure to industry dynamics and practical career guidance.
Addressing concerns raised by students over unemployment and the perceived scarcity of job opportunities, Dr Mukhwana challenged the narrative that Kenya’s manufacturing sector is in decline, saying it remains one of the strongest pillars of the economy.
“Manufacturing is the second biggest employer in the country, employing about 500,000 people. We continue to see two to three new factories starting operations. The idea that things are extremely bad is not entirely true,” he reiterated.
Equally, the PS added that Kenya continues to attract strong interest from investors, citing the high demand for space in newly developed industrial parks as evidence of confidence in the sector.
“For example, in Kirinyaga County, we recently completed a County Aggregation and Industrial Park that can host eight factories.
When we advertised, we received 68 applications from investors who want to set up manufacturing operations there. That tells you what is really happening,” Dr Mukhwana revealed.
As well, the PS urged 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 significant potential for job creation and economic growth.
“Manufacturing contributes nearly 10 per cent to our Gross Domestic Product. That is not small, but there is still room for growth. Young Kenyans should not be scared away from this sector; this is where the opportunities are,” he reaffirmed.
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Dr Mukhwana further encouraged students to go 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 that can communicate, detect problems and operate efficiently. Students must be innovative and willing to acquire new skills, both within and outside the university, if they are to remain competitive,” he asserted.
Beyond economic success, the PS challenged students to reflect on their broader purpose and societal impact, saying money alone should not define success.
“At the end of the day, it is not about how much money you make, but the difference you make. Each one of us is unique, and the real question is what changed because you were here. You must strive to leave a positive impact on society,” he posited.
In addition, he called on young people to rise above fear and comfort, saying Kenya’s drive towards industrialisation presents a historic opportunity.
“This is Kenya’s moment to industrialise. This is Africa’s moment to create prosperity. And this is your moment to build, innovate and change the world,” rallied Dr. Mukhwana.
Meanwhile, students attending the event said the engagement had significantly shifted their mindset on employment and career planning.
The Career Week brought together students, academia, industry leaders and policymakers, reinforcing the role of higher education institutions in driving skills development, innovation and Kenya’s long-term economic transformation.
By Juma Ndigo
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