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Speech by the Chief Guest (24th graduation)
SPEECH BY
Dr. Juma Mukhwana, PHD, HSC,
PRINCIPAL SECRETARY, STATE DEPARTMENT FOR INDUSTRY, MINISTRY OF INVESTMENTS, TRADE AND INDUSTRY
CHIEF GUEST
DURING THE MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY 24TH GRADUATION CEREMONY
GRADUATION THEME: THE ROLE OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN DRIVING SMALL-SCALE INDUSTRY FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC EQUITY THROUGH LINKAGES
ON
FRIDAY, 8TH DECEMBER, 2023
AT
MOUNT KENYA UNIVERSITY HAPPY VALLEY GROUNDS, THIKA
- Salutation
- The Chancellor, Prof. John Struthers,
- Chairman, Board of Directors / Founder, Prof. Simon Gicharu,
- Co-Founder, Dr. Jane Nyutu,
- Members of the University Board of Directors present,
- Chairman, University Council, Dr. Vincent Gaitho,
- Members of the University Council,
- Deogratius Jaganyi, Vice-Chancellor,
- Members of the University Management Board and Senate,
- Distinguished Guests,
- Parents and Guardians,
- Graduands,
- Ladies and Gentlemen.
I wish to begin by thanking Mount Kenya University for giving me this opportunity to serve as the Chief Guest during the University’s 24th Graduation Ceremony.
Today marks a significant milestone in your lives (as students) and the start of a new dawn equipped with knowledge, new experiences, and long-life memories from your time at this Great University.
As we gather here today, we celebrate not only your academic accomplishments but also the journey of growth, perseverance, and discovery that has brought you to this joyous moment.
I commend Mount Kenya University for choosing a very progressive theme for this Graduation Ceremony, which is, “The Role of Higher Education in Driving Small-Scale Industry for Socio-Economic Equity through Linkages”. As you are aware, Small-Scale Industries play a critical role in our economic development creating employment for 14.1 million persons representing at least 93% of our national workforce. The sector contributes 24% to the GDP.
SMEs have significantly contributed to innovation and skill development, especially among young people. By so doing, it has enabled them to realise their full potential resulting in increased productivity of the young people.
While the country is gearing towards a mid-level economy, I want to appreciate Mount Kenya University for taking the bold step in moulding these graduands so that they can fit into our economy. The university is doing this by equipping young people with the right skills, knowledge, and activities to play in our market and at the international level.
One of the key functions of the State Department for Industry is to create linkages between Government, Academia, and Industry where synergies are built in order to bring out the best innovations for commercialization. This collaboration was manifested during the Covid-19 pandemic period; during which many innovations were developed and deployed into the market.
My Department has continued promoting partnerships between SMEs, Academia, and the private Sector in skill development, promoting development of new technologies, and creating policies that encourage research and innovation in the country.
It is important to note that, there are various challenges bedeviling the linkage between learning institutions and SMEs such as minimal absorption of new technologies by SMEs, inappropriate skills which are critical to the growth of SMEs, commercialization of innovative technologies; and a low appreciation of science and its contribution to national development.
Also commendable is Mount Kenya University’s successful effort in ensuring access to quality higher education across the country, in the region, and worldwide through the dual options of face-to-face as well as online modes of study. MKU's support to the students and researchers has led to the development of research-oriented projects that have continued to transform lives. This support has led to development of several innovations that have been internationally acknowledged and awarded; and which have been instrumental in supporting the establishment of small-scale industrial start-ups.
Higher education institutions serve as hubs of knowledge creation, innovation, and skill development. These institutions have the capability to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application by nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship, fostering research and development, and providing a skilled workforce equipped to address the challenges faced by small-scale industries.
Small-scale industries, often the backbone of many economies, play a vital role in generating employment, driving innovation, and contributing significantly to local value addition and employment creation.
This is where the synergy between higher education and small-scale industries becomes pivotal. Collaborative efforts, such as research partnerships, technology transfer, mentorship programs, and internships, can facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources. Such linkages empower small-scale industries with the latest advancements in technology, managerial skills, and market insights, thus enhancing their productivity and competitiveness.
By fostering strong linkages, we can harness the collective potential of academia and industry to create a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.
I therefore congratulate the University Management, researchers, and innovators for these sterling achievements. The symbiotic relationship between higher education and small-scale industries is indispensable for driving socio-economic equity; especially here in Africa.
To those graduating today, remember that, as you step out into the world beyond these university walls, carry with you the values instilled in your Great Institution. Let integrity, perseverance, and empathy be your guiding principles.
Remember, success is not solely defined by wealth or accolades but by the lives you touch, the difference you make, and the values you uphold. Your journey does not end here; it merely takes a new direction filled with opportunities waiting to be seized.
As you embark on your individual paths, don’t forget the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the memories cherished during your stay here. Strive to be compassionate leaders, ethical professionals, and agents of positive change in whatever you choose to pursue.
To the graduands, parents/guardians, and other stakeholders, I congratulate you all for all your efforts that have led to the graduands’ timely completion of their studies at Mount Kenya University; an effort that has culminated in this colorful ceremony. We welcome the graduands to the world of work. Other than the Ph.D. graduands, I urge all the other graduands to consider furthering their education so that they can become more competitive.
In conclusion, I wish to reiterate the Government of Kenya’s commitment to supporting education, research, innovation, infrastructural growth, and employment creation for socio-economic equality.
I wish you all graduands the best in your lives as you strive to join other stakeholders in serving humanity with diligence since “Service to People is Service to God”.
Thank you.
Dr. Juma Mukhwana, PhD, HSC
