Industry players and universities have joined forces to address the widening skills gap and prepare students for the modern workforce. This collaborative effort aims to bridge the gap between academic training and industry requirements, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen careers.
Wambui Macharia, Manager of People and Talent Development at a Nairobi-based HR company, highlighted the challenges faced by employers in finding skilled talent. She emphasized the lack of technological proficiency and hands-on experience among many job applicants, which hampers their employability.
To address this issue, industry partners are working closely with universities to review and update curricula. These reforms will ensure that students acquire the necessary skills to meet the demands of the job market. In addition, mentorship programs will provide students with practical guidance and support, helping them develop the soft skills and industry knowledge required for career advancement.
Sophia Kihanda, Manager of Hospitality Company Paleo Hotels, emphasized the importance of well-rounded hospitality professionals. She stressed the need for foreign language skills, financial management, strategic thinking, and IT proficiency, in addition to core hospitality skills.
Prof. Owen Ngumi, Dean of the School of Education, Arts, and Social Sciences at Zetech University, expressed optimism about the impact of these partnerships. He believes that by working closely with industry experts, the university can tailor its academic programs to meet the evolving needs of the job market.
By fostering stronger collaborations between industry and academia, these initiatives aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the 21st-century workforce.
