Graduates have been encouraged to use the knowledge and skills acquired in higher education to enhance their professional growth and drive economic development. This call was made by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, whose speech was delivered by his Chief of Staff, Joseph Busiega, during Pwani University’s 12th graduation ceremony.
Mudavadi underscored the importance of aligning youth empowerment strategies with the demands of a dynamic job market. He commended the government’s efforts to integrate these strategies into broader economic policies such as the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and Vision 2030.
Adapting to a Changing World
Mudavadi’s address emphasized resilience and adaptability as key traits for navigating an ever-evolving global environment. “The world is a continuous learning curve,” he noted, reminding graduates to anticipate both joy and challenges in their career and life journeys.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration and inclusivity, describing them as cornerstones of creativity and innovation. “One of the greatest lessons you have learned, particularly from the power of teamwork in your studies, is that each and every voice matters. Diversity and inclusion spark creativity and innovation,” he added.
Mudavadi called on graduates to tackle global issues such as climate change, security threats, demographic shifts, and rapid technological advancements with ingenuity and resolve. These challenges, he said, are intertwined with Kenya’s social and economic transformation journey.
Viewing Youth as Assets
Mudavadi advocated for a balanced view of youth empowerment, urging stakeholders to recognize the potential of young people as assets capable of attracting industrial investments. “Youth are not a liability; they are a resource. Harnessing their energy and creativity is key to building a thriving economy,” he said.
He highlighted education’s transformative role in fostering skills necessary for addressing emerging challenges and seizing opportunities. Graduates, Mudavadi said, are integral to shaping a future defined by innovation and progress.
Engaging in Policy Reforms
Mudavadi also emphasized the need for active stakeholder participation in shaping government policies, particularly regarding the university funding model. He called for constructive engagement to ensure that the higher education sector remains financially and operationally sustainable.
“You have an opportunity to make a difference in building public consensus on government priorities, including the university funding model and how to improve the financial and operational viability of universities,” Mudavadi said.
This appeal comes amid ongoing discussions on reforming Kenya’s higher education system, where financial constraints have raised concerns about quality and accessibility.
Celebrating Academic Excellence
The Prime Cabinet Secretary lauded the achievements of Pwani University’s 1,714 graduates, who completed studies in diverse fields. Among them, 51 candidates attained postgraduate qualifications, a milestone Mudavadi described as a testament to the institution’s commitment to academic excellence.
He encouraged the graduates to see their accomplishments as a foundation for future success, urging them to continue learning and contributing to national development. “Together, we can make Kenya and the world a better place for all of us,” he concluded.
Building a Resilient Future
Mudavadi’s speech reflects the government’s broader vision of empowering youth as drivers of change. As graduates enter the workforce, they are tasked with applying their skills and creativity to overcome challenges and contribute to Kenya’s economic and social transformation.
This call to action aligns with the principles of Vision 2030, which envisions a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, inclusivity, and resilience. For the graduates of Pwani University, it marks the beginning of a journey toward shaping a brighter future for Kenya and beyond.
