The Government has outlined a transformative agenda for Kenya’s higher education sector, emphasizing research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry-aligned training during the University of Kabianga’s 13th graduation ceremony.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, where over 1,800 students were awarded degrees and diplomas across various programmes, the Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Aurelia Chepkirui Rono, who delivered the keynote address on behalf of Education Cabinet Secretary, Julius Migos Ogamba, underscored the government’s commitment to quality higher education.
“The Government is actively realigning the higher education system to ensure that every graduate leaving our universities is not only armed with theoretical knowledge but also possesses practical skills, digital literacy, critical thinking, and the adaptive capacity required to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Graduates should emerge as innovators, job creators, and problem solvers who can contribute directly to the nation’s socio-economic growth,” said CS Ogamba.
“We are investing in research and development, expanding access to state-of-the-art learning facilities, and ensuring curricula are dynamic, relevant, and closely aligned with both national and global industry demands. Our plans will strengthen university research capacity, upgrade learning infrastructure, and ensure academic programmes respond to Kenya’s most pressing national priorities, including climate change, technological transformation, and healthcare innovation,” he added.
CS Ogamba urged graduates to uphold values of integrity, innovation, and service in both their personal and professional lives. “I call on you to embrace these principles, recognize the sacrifices of your parents and guardians, and honor their unwavering support throughout your demanding years of higher education,” he said.
“The reforms we are implementing are designed to transform students into proactive contributors to Kenya’s development, capable of driving innovation, creating employment, and addressing the complex challenges facing our nation. We aim to close funding gaps, strengthen university–industry linkages, and reinforce employability and entrepreneurship, ensuring our universities remain financially sustainable and globally competitive,” CS Ogamba noted.
In conclusion, he challenged the graduates to embrace and lead on the defining global issues of their generation. “From climate change and artificial intelligence to evolving labour markets and geopolitical uncertainties, you are called to be visionaries, creators, and responsible leaders,” CS Ogamba said.
The Ministry of Education expressed confidence that the University of Kabianga’s Class of 2025 will spearhead national renewal and help position Kenya as a competitive player on the global stage.
Highlighting alignment with broader education reforms, CS Ogamba noted that the university is increasingly integrating Competency-Based Education (CBE) principles into its learning programmes.
“This ensures graduates acquire not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and entrepreneurial mindsets — in line with Kenya’s goal of producing adaptive, employable professionals for the 21st century,” he said.
Among the honorees was double Olympic Champion, Major Beatrice Chebet, who received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of her discipline, excellence, and dedication on the global stage.
by Gilbert Mutai
