SPEECH BY DR BEATRICE INYANGALA PRINCIPAL SECRETARY STATE DEPARTMENT FOR HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

• Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Education, Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba
• Chancellor, Egerton University, Dr. Narendra Raval (Guru)
• Chairman of Council, ….
• Governor Nakuru County Government, H.E. Susan Kihika
• Member of Parliament present
• Council Members
• Chairpersons and Members of Councils of other universities
• Vice Chancellor, Egerton University, Prof. Isaac O. Kibwage
• Vice Chancellors of other universities
• Deputy Vice Chancellors
• Graduands
• Staff and students
• Alumni
• Parents and Guardians
• Distinguished Guests
• Ladies and Gentlemen

Good morning,

It is a privilege to be here today as we celebrate this important milestone. To the graduates, today marks the culmination of years of dedication and hard work, and I extend my warmest congratulations to each of you. I also recognize the dedication of your families and friends, who have been your steadfast support system.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Current Landscape of University Education

Higher education in Kenya is at a pivotal point, with new developments reshaping our institutions and impacting students' futures. This year, we saw a significant allocation of students across public universities and TVET institutions. The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) facilitated placements for over 153,000 students in universities, comprising 76.2% of all those qualified for degree programs. This increase in enrolment underscores the government's commitment to making higher education accessible, enabling more young Kenyans to pursue their aspirations.

The government has also prioritized funding for higher education this fiscal year. We have allocated approximately KES 111 billion toward universities, colleges, and technical institutions, signalling our commitment to sustain and elevate the quality of education. This funding is crucial for improving infrastructure, fostering academic research, and supporting learning programs that build a competitive workforce.

Research and Innovation for Kenya’s Development

Innovation is a driving force for economic growth, and universities are at the forefront of Kenya’s innovation ecosystem. The Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) plays a pivotal role in advancing research across institutions by fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government. Universities like Egerton, Kenyatta University, and Mount Kenya University have made strides through research projects addressing issues from clean energy to agricultural sustainability. Additionally, Egerton’s own contributions in agricultural research are directly linked to Kenya’s food security goals.

There is still work to be done, however, to ensure that research outcomes translate into tangible development impacts. Moving forward, universities need continued investment in research infrastructure, increased collaboration with industry, and policies that incentivize commercialization of research. The government, through agencies like Kenya National Innovation Agency, is committed to fostering this research-to-market pipeline and supporting ground-breaking projects in our universities to drive national progress.

Linking Academia with Industry

To prepare graduates for the real-world job market, the government emphasizes the importance of partnerships between universities and industries. By aligning academic programs with industry needs, we enable students to develop skills that meet the demands of our economy. Programs supported by entities such as the Kenya Industry and Entrepreneurship Project (KIEP) and Strengthening Kenya’s Innovation Ecosystem (SKIES), funded by the World Bank, have helped universities incubate student-led start-ups and small enterprises, offering mentorship and resources for long-term success.

Egerton University’s commitment to experiential learning and collaborations with industry is commendable. It is initiatives like these that ensure our graduates are prepared not only to secure employment but to innovate and create new opportunities within Kenya’s growing economy.

In Conclusion

As we celebrate this milestone, we must acknowledge that the job market today is competitive and evolving. It requires adaptability, creativity, and resilience. This is why the government is encouraging universities to integrate entrepreneurial skills into their curricula. By teaching entrepreneurship, we empower graduates to be job creators, not just job seekers.

Graduands,

As you step into this new chapter, remember that your education equips you with more than just knowledge—it empowers you to be change-makers. Your resilience and dedication have brought you this far, and these same qualities will carry you forward. Seize every opportunity with courage, remain curious, and be willing to learn, for the future of our nation lies in your hands.

Congratulations once again, and may your journey ahead be one of success, growth, and fulfilment.

Thank you.