- He said SMEs have largely contributed to innovation and skill development among young people in the country
- Mukhwana said the government is will collaborate with institutions of higher learning to create linkages with the employment industry
Image: JOHN KAMAU
Kenyans have been urged to consume locally manufactured products to help government create more jobs
Trade and Industry PS Juma Mukhwana said importation of products has largely affected local job creation.
He said as the country gears towards a mid-level economy, the role of universities in helping Kenya realise the aspiration cannot be overlooked.
He spoke during the Mount Kenya University 24th graduation ceremony, where 5,763 students graduated
“Small-scale Industries play a critical role in our economic development and employment creation. The sector has employed 14.1 million persons, representing at least 93 per cent of our national workforce. It contributes 24 per cent of the GDP,” Mukhwana said.
He said SMEs have largely contributed to innovation and skill development among young people in the country.
Mukhwana said the government is will collaborate with institutions of higher learning to create linkages with the employment industry.
This will build synergies that will bring out the best innovations for commercialisation.
He said small-scale industries, often the backbone of many economies, play a vital role in employment creation and innovation.
They also contribute significantly to local value addition and employment creation.
“This collaboration was manifested during the Covid-19 pandemic period; during which many innovations were developed and deployed into the market," Mukhwana said.
"My department has continued to promote partnerships between SMEs, academia and the private sector in skills development, creation of policies and development of new technologies that encourage research and innovation in the country."
Thev PS cited minimal absorption of new technology, inappropriate skills and low appreciation of science as some of the challenges SMEs are experiencing.
He praised MKU for supporting students and researchers to pursue 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. The innovations have also been instrumental in supporting the establishment of small-scale industrial start-ups,” Mukhwana said.
The PS said there is need to foster strong linkages to harness the collective potential of academia and industry to create a more inclusive and prosperous society.
He said the symbiotic relationship between higher education and small-scale industries is indispensable for driving socio-economic equity in Africa.
He urged the graduates to carry values such as integrity, perseverence and empathy instilled in them by the university.
University chancellor John Struthers and chairman, University council Dr Vincent Gaitho said the education offered at MKU is affordable and accessible through the diverse modes of study.
Currently, the university’s digital footprint is growing globally with students enrolling from more than 40 countries.
They said the university will continue to strive to be competitive by forming various forms of partnerships to attract and retain qualified, dedicated and competent staff.