MKU varsity graduands told to exploit AI technology during 27th graduation ceremony
There are numerous unexploited opportunities that young people can tap into in this era of artificial intelligence (AI) to better their lives and contribute to economic development, according to experts.
They maintain that AI has been embraced across nearly all sectors right from agriculture to health and manufacturing, thanks to its ability to simplify and enhance operations.
It is against this backdrop that stakeholders are encouraging the youth, particularly university graduates, to adopt AI-driven innovations.
Speaking during the 27th graduation ceremony at Mount Kenya University (MKU) in Thika, Kiambu county where over 8,600 graduates were conferred with degrees, diplomas, and certificates, the stakeholders noted that most industries are integrating AI to drive transformative change.
Dr. Tony Omwansa, the Chief Executive Officer Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA), emphasized that the power of innovation is the engine of national progress.
“Catalysing innovation is the best bet for socio-economic development of a nation. Times have changed and unlike before, people can work from wherever courtesy of AI. The worker of yesterday who relied on emails to communicate has been transformed into a worker who uses collaboration tools to efficiently relay information,” he stated.
Omwansa also highlighted the shift in the education landscape noting that the student of yesterday focused on knowledge acquisition while that one of today focuses on being adaptive learning. “Thanks to AI, the society has evolved,” he quipped.
His sentiments were echoed by Donatus Njoroge, Head of Innovation, Intellectual Property and Community Engagement at MKU, who emphasized the growing presence of AI in vital sectors.
“AI has been embraced and is now effective in health, agriculture, among other sectors. What we are telling the youth who have graduated today is to embrace AI to make their work environment easier,
“There are numerous opportunities in this invention that are yet to be exploited and which youngsters can easily go for,” noted Njoroge.
Some of the graduates also recognized the power of technology in unlocking personal and professional growth.
Aloise Kinyanjui, a businessman-cum politician who graduated with a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Newton Kariithi, an Information Technology graduate, pointed to content creation and tech entrepreneurship as promising AI-driven ventures for the youth.
“AI and technology is the thing, and our young people must head towards this direction that is driving socio-economic development,” said Kinyanjui.
Kariithi added; “With just a smartphone, the youth can now make a living with ease.”
Addressing the graduates, the University Chancellor Prof John Struthers encouraged them to create their own paths and apply their newly acquired skills in ways that solve real-world problems.
“There are other opportunities beyond today including furthering your education, joining the job market or creating your own to employ. Above everything, trust in God,” said Struthers.
Also present was Archbishop Anthony Muheria of the Archdiocese of Nyeri, who urged the graduates to uphold values and integrity as they step into the job market.
“Don’t compromise your values of honesty, truth or morals. Have God in your heart. Endeavour to solve problems, be resilient, persevere, don’t quit and embrace God,” said Muheria.
