Kenya’s Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, CBS, has called for stronger partnerships between industry and academia to equip young people with practical, market-relevant skills that meet the needs of a rapidly evolving economy.
Eng. Tanui made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI) Partners’ Breakfast Meeting, held under the theme “Sustainable Futures”. The event was hosted by Eng. Prof. David K. Some, Chair of the RVTTI Board of Management, and Mrs Loice Kutoh, the institute’s Chief Principal and Secretary to the Board of Management.
The Principal Secretary stressed the importance of aligning technical and vocational education and training (TVET) with industry requirements. He noted that closer cooperation between training institutions and employers is essential to preparing graduates for meaningful employment and emerging economic opportunities.
He also highlighted the role of digital technologies in transforming education, industry and the wider economy. Integrating information and communication technology (ICT), artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies into technical training, he said, can improve productivity, encourage innovation and equip young people with skills needed to participate in Kenya’s expanding digital economy.
Eng. Tanui called for greater collaboration between employers and training institutions in curriculum development, industrial attachments and practical skills training. Such cooperation can help narrow the gap between academic qualifications and workplace expectations.
He further observed that sustained partnerships between industry and academia can strengthen the link between education and employment, stimulate investment, support job creation and contribute to a more competitive and resilient economy.
The meeting highlighted the need for a coordinated approach involving government, training institutions and industry to develop a workforce capable of adapting to technological change and supporting Kenya’s long-term development goals.
The State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy continues to advance the country’s digital transformation agenda, with digital skills and human capital development identified as important foundations for inclusive growth, innovation and a sustainable digital economy.
