President William Ruto has challenged Kenyan universities to engage in research and innovation that develop solutions to urgent challenges facing Africa and the world.
The President said innovation and technological development will enhance Kenya’s competitiveness in the global economy.
“Kenya’s institutions must offer leadership in the search for solutions to humanity’s most urgent needs like poverty, inequality clean energy, climate change, hunger and disease,” he said.
President Ruto said innovation will help Kenya develop a knowledge based economy with opportunities for Kenyan youth.
“Our labor market shows great demand for the type of specialized competencies required by a modern, globally competitive economy.”
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The Head of State was speaking at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) where he commissioned the institution’s Blue Economy Research Hub.
“The Blue Economy has emerged as a frontier of immense opportunity with the potential to contribute greatly to sustainable development,” he said.
“We shall be looking to the hub for practical solutions to a diverse range of issues and challenges.”
At the same time, President William Ruto has announced plans to establish a new body to cater for higher education funding.
According to President Ruto, the government intends to form the National Skill and Funding Council to replace HELB.
The new council will encompass Helb, TVET, and University Funding Board.
“To bridge the current higher education funding gap of up to 45 per cent, the government will establish the National Skill and Funding Council that amalgamates Helb, TVET, and University Funding Board,” Ruto said.
The new move will see both public universities and TVETs as well as students receive funding from one body.
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