Zetech University, the leading technological and entrepreneurial University in Kenya during the graduation ceremony on 8th November 2024, urged students to embrace academic programs that align with the ever-evolving job market to better adapt to the demands of the modern workforce.
They have also been encouraged to be tech-savvy and entrepreneurial to have a competitive edge in the global job market. Zetech University Vice Chancellor Prof Njenga Munene noted with concern that many students and universities remain tied to outdated program structures, leaving graduates ill-prepared for the realities of today’s job market.
Speaking during the 8th graduation ceremony at Technology Park Mang'u Campus in Kiambu County, Prof Munene revealed that as a result, the University has a wide range of courses that are skills-based, including nursing, computer science, and other emerging fields. Prof Munene highlighted that the global economic and social shifts have compelled institutions to adapt by introducing new, skill-focused programs.
This initiative aims to equip students with practical knowledge relevant to current job demands, increasing student enrolments and programme switches. The VC at the same time told the 2566 graduands, who were conferred with Diplomas, Degrees and Masters during the ceremony, to apply soft skills in their area of specialisation and be able to create a network of relevant people to succeed.
“Soft skills go beyond technical skills and we must endeavour to be technopreneurial individuals because there’s a wide application of technology in almost all areas. Therefore don’t miss on the relevant technology,” he noted.
He also challenged them to be entrepreneurial noting that in the near future close to 70 per cent held by people will be occupied by technological advancements.
“As a University we have established an entrepreneurial ecosystem incubation hub (iZet hub) that helps us incubate students’ business ideas and innovations and later graduate them to industrial parks,” he said.
John Mwai, the Director for Corporate Affairs and Marketing at Zetech University, echoed the sentiments, noting the university's commitment to climate change and sustainability.
New offerings include green skills, solar economy, and climate conservation programs, integrating ICT to address modern challenges.
“We have made significant strides in overcoming economic challenges by focusing on sustainable development and cutting-edge research. This year's graduation theme centred on climate action and green skills, reflecting the institution's dedication to producing graduates who are not only job-ready but also environmentally conscious,” Mwai said.