Zetech University recently held its 8th graduation ceremony at the Mang’u Campus in Juja, Kiambu County, celebrating the academic achievements of 2,566 graduates across various disciplines. This event comes at a time when the Kenyan job market is facing increasing pressure, making it more difficult for fresh graduates to secure stable employment. As the nation grapples with a high unemployment rate, the university is prioritizing the development of market-driven programs aimed at enhancing its students’ employability.
In his address during the graduation ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Njenga Munene acknowledged the challenges posed by Kenya’s current job market. He stressed the importance of aligning academic programs with industry needs to ensure that Zetech graduates are equipped with relevant skills to succeed in an evolving economic landscape. Prof. Munene emphasized that the university is committed to providing its students with the tools necessary to thrive in a competitive job environment, focusing on self-employment and entrepreneurship as viable pathways for the future.
“The innovative skills you have acquired here at Zetech will empower you to create your own opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” Prof. Munene told the graduates. His words underscored the importance of entrepreneurial mindsets in tackling the pervasive issue of youth unemployment. By fostering creativity and innovation, Zetech hopes to reduce its graduates’ reliance on traditional job markets, instead encouraging them to pursue self-employment and start their own businesses.
In addition to its focus on employability, Zetech University is also expanding its infrastructure to support its growing student population. New sports facilities and student hostels are among the ongoing developments aimed at enhancing the campus experience for both current and future students. The university’s leadership is also focused on staying ahead of the curve by introducing new programs, such as nursing, to address the healthcare sector’s rising demand for skilled professionals. These initiatives reflect the university’s commitment to staying aligned with market trends and ensuring its graduates are well-prepared to meet the needs of various industries.
John Mwai, the Director for Corporate Affairs and Marketing at Zetech, echoed Prof. Munene’s sentiments, highlighting the university’s role in driving innovation and research, even in the face of financial challenges facing many higher education institutions. Despite the economic difficulties, Zetech remains at the forefront of addressing current industry demands and preparing its students for the workforce.
The theme for this year’s graduation was centered on combating climate change through the promotion of green skills. This theme aligns with the university’s commitment to sustainable development, encouraging graduates to use their knowledge to tackle the environmental and economic challenges facing the world. Mwai urged graduates to leverage their skills in order to adapt to the rapidly changing world and make meaningful contributions to environmental preservation.
While the atmosphere at the ceremony was celebratory, some graduates voiced their concerns about their future employment prospects. Enocentus Wambua, one of the graduates, candidly expressed his anxiety over the current job market, where many young people struggle to find stable jobs. He called on the government to create better employment opportunities to address the growing concerns of youth unemployment in the country.
However, not all graduates shared the same sentiment. Wisdom Njoroge, another graduate, had a more optimistic outlook, attributing his success to the strong industry partnerships fostered by Zetech University. Njoroge was able to secure a job before graduation, a testament to the practical experience and real-world exposure provided by the university’s programs. His success story highlights the significance of structured academic programs that incorporate industry linkages, offering students valuable opportunities for employment even before completing their studies.
As Zetech University continues to prioritize employability and sustainability, it remains a beacon of hope for graduates navigating a challenging job market. With a strong focus on skills development, industry partnerships, and entrepreneurial training, the institution is paving the way for its students to not only secure jobs but also become the architects of their own success in a rapidly changing world.
