By Dorothy Musyoka
Kenyatta University (KU) leadership has challenged students and graduates to take an active role in shaping their future by becoming creators of jobs and drivers of opportunities beyond campus life.
Speaking during the official opening the University’s Career Week, Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. John Okumu urged students to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship and skills application as key pathways to success in a rapidly changing job market.
He emphasized that the future of work demands graduates who are solution-oriented and ready to create value, rather than solely seeking employment.
“Kenyatta University graduates must position themselves as the engine of jobs in the economy. The knowledge and skills acquired here should translate into opportunities not only for themselves, but for society at large,” Prof. Okumu said.
Echoing this message, Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), highlighted the strong performance of KU graduates in the labour market.
She noted that a significant number of the University’s alumni secure employment or meaningful engagements within just one year of graduation, a testament to the quality of training and industry-aligned programmes offered by the institution.
“Our graduates are competitive, adaptable, and highly sought after. Kenyatta University continues to produce professionals who are ready to contribute effectively across various sectors,” Prof. Wanjohi stated.
Adding the student voice to the conversation, the Kenyatta University Students Association (KUSA) President Samuel Karanja encouraged learners to take ownership of their post-campus journey.
He called on students to be proactive, leverage networks built during their studies, and seize opportunities presented through internships, mentorships, and entrepreneurship platforms.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it early. Students must take charge of their destiny by actively seeking opportunities and applying the skills gained at Kenyatta University,” he said.
KU Career Week brought together industry players, alumni, career coaches, and students, providing a platform for mentorship, skills development, and exposure to emerging career pathways.
The event reaffirmed Kenyatta University’s commitment to nurturing graduates who are not only job-ready, but also capable of driving innovation, enterprise, and national development.
This year’s theme is, “Bridging Academia and Industry: unlocking sustainable opportunities from campus to career.