Higher Education Principal Secretary (PS) Beatrice Inyangala has called on Kenyan universities to shift focus from producing degrees to becoming centers of innovation and problem-solving. Speaking at the 73rd University of Nairobi graduation ceremony, she emphasized that higher education must address real-world challenges while driving Kenya’s economic growth.
“We must transform our universities from warehouses of degrees into laboratories of solutions. Consider Dedan Kimathi University, which is producing semiconductor chips for phones and computers once unthinkable on African soil, now a proud Kenyan reality,” Inyangala said.
She underscored that universities must produce graduates who are not just consumers but also creators of technology. Her remarks came as over 4,000 graduands celebrated their academic milestones at the University of Nairobi.
At the same event, Inyangala appealed to striking lecturers to embrace dialogue. She acknowledged their legitimate demands for unpaid arrears and salary adjustments but urged balance to protect learners’ right to education.
“Salaries must be honoured, arrears must be addressed, and dignity must be upheld. But let us not allow disputes to rob students of their future,” she stated.
Research and Innovation on the Rise
University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson reported strong progress in research and innovation. The institution attracted Ksh5.4 billion in research funding this year, up from Ksh4.6 billion in 2023. Its Income Generating Units also raised nearly Ksh199 million, boosting efforts to link academics with industry.
Chancellor Prof. Patrick Verkooijen presided over the ceremony, awarding degrees across PhD, Master’s, Bachelor’s, and Diploma levels. He commended graduates for innovations in food security, technology, and transport.
Among the notable graduands were Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, who earned a Master of Science in Agricultural Entomology; Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, who graduated with a Master of Arts in Economics; and journalist Elkana Jacob, who received a Master’s in Criminology.
Inyangala concluded by affirming that transforming universities into hubs of solutions will secure Kenya’s future through job creation, technological innovation, and sustainable growth.
