- Mudavadi calls on higher learning institutions to adopt sustainable interventions aimed at building resilience.
- The Prime CS emphasizes the need for universities to collaborate closely with the government and international partners to forge a legacy of innovation and dedication to the national interest.
Image: PCS
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged higher learning institutions to prioritise sustainable interventions to enhance resilience.
Speaking at the University of Nairobi on Tuesday, the Prime CS said institutions of higher learning should adopt sustainable interventions to build their resilience.
The PCS challenged the institutions to also work closely with the government and create linkages with the international community to forge a legacy of innovation and resilience.
“Let us forge a legacy of innovation and unwavering dedication to the national interest. Let us ensure that higher institutions of learning do not only shine as beacons of knowledge and excellence but, also stand out as testaments to our collective resolve to uplift our nation in all spheres of life,” Mudavadi said.
According to Mudavadi, Kenya's prosperity hinges on a collective effort where academic excellence is intertwined with a commitment to national service.
Highlighting the potential of students as agents of change, Mudavadi urged them to harness their skills and knowledge to address societal challenges and drive sustainable development initiatives.
He challenged university leadership to remain cognizant of global dynamics and to pragmatically find solutions to current challenges.
Mudavadi expressed high expectations for Kenyan universities to develop expanded research partnerships with leading international institutions, such collaborations.
“Our expectations are particularly high about the future role of Kenyan universities in developing expanded research partnerships with other leading international institutions. Such strategic collaboration will enhance research capabilities, access cutting-edge resources and foster collaboration on groundbreaking research projects that address national, regional and global challenges,” he said.
“I am delighted to note that the University of Nairobi is one of our institutions of higher learning that will benefit from this investment. This will certainly buttress the Chancellor’s agenda and spring this institution to the pinnacle of innovation and entrepreneurship. Further, it will incubate groundbreaking ideas that will transform industries, drive economic growth and contribute to social transformation."
The PCS was speaking at the University of Nairobi, during the unveiling of the "Big 5" Transformational Initiatives aimed at propelling the university to a fit-for-purpose sustainable and resilient future, hosted by UON by Chancellor Professor Patrick Verkooijen, Tuesday evening.
“I am pleased to note that the Chancellor’s transformative agenda includes strategic initiatives to shore up innovation, equip young people to lead the green transition and harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI). It will also help to bridge the gap between academia and industry, to accelerate the growth of emerging sectors in line with the Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA),” he said.
The unveiling of the "Big 5" Transformational Initiatives at the University of Nairobi was commended by Mudavadi, who praised the institution's bold vision and commitment to excellence.
These initiatives, he noted, come at a momentous time in Kenya's history as the country solidifies its position as an attractive regional hub for Foreign Direct Investments FDI.
He cites key drivers of FDI as emerging opportunities in various sectors including financial services, technology and education.
Mudavadi added that foreign relations and diplomacy play a significant role than ever in emerging regional and global issues, including trade and investment, security and climate change mitigation.
“I have just returned from the United States where I accompanied President William Ruto to a historic State Visit hosted by His Excellency President Joe Biden. The President engaged constructively with his host, government officials and the US private sector. He was able to strike deals worth $36.15 million for basic and higher education sector programs,” he said.
“I am delighted to note that the University of Nairobi is one of our institutions of higher learning that will benefit from this investment. This will certainly buttress the Chancellor’s agenda and spring this institution to the pinnacle of innovation and entrepreneurship. Further, it will incubate groundbreaking ideas that will transform industries, drive economic growth and contribute to social transformation,” he added.
Mudavadi said universities should lead the charge in equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of international relations.
The Prime CS's remarks signal a clarion call for higher learning institutions to embrace sustainable interventions as they chart a course towards a resilient and prosperous future for Kenya.
“At the heart of our continent’s development is leadership. I am also confident that we can look upon our institutions of higher learning as key contributors to the next generation of African leaders. Our students need to be equipped with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed to lead with integrity, vision and impact. With the “Big 5” Initiatives, for instance, the University of Nairobi will be well placed to nurture ethical leadership and empower individuals to drive positive change in their communities and beyond,” he said.
Mudavadi emphasized the crucial role of universities in nurturing the next generation of leaders. He called upon university leadership and faculty to cultivate not only academic knowledge but also leadership skills necessary for navigating the complexities of the rapidly evolving world.
Image: PCS