Key stakeholders from the education and corporate sectors are calling for a significant overhaul of university curricula to better align with current job market demands.
This urgent appeal was made during the launch of three new postgraduate programs at Zetech University’s Mangu campus, including a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science and Master’s degrees in Computer Science and Information Technology.
Kiambu County Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika highlighted the widening skills gap due to rapid technological advancements and evolving industry requirements. “We are looking for candidates with expertise in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital marketing. Unfortunately, many graduates lack these crucial skills, leading to a mismatch between what the job market needs and what universities are producing,” Kirika stated.
Professor Alice Njuguna, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Zetech University, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to addressing market needs.
“At Zetech University, we first identify what the problem is in the market, then rethink the solution with the help of industry stakeholders, looking at international standards before introducing a course,” she explained.
The introduction of these new programs positions Zetech University as a leader in technology education, equipping students with the essential skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Stakeholders are hopeful that this collaborative approach will help bridge the gap between education and employment, ultimately benefiting both graduates and the job market.