Private sector and universities unite to tackle youth unemployment through AI innovations and skills development

Kenya’s private sector and universities are intensifying efforts to tackle youth unemployment through innovation and technology. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) recently hosted an inter-university hackathon that brought together students from 28 public and private universities under the theme: “Strengthening the Innovation Ecosystem for Sustainable Development Using Ethical AI-Powered Solutions.”

The competition focused on AI-driven solutions in business, education, agriculture, health, and governance, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students showcased projects designed to address real societal challenges while gaining hands-on industry exposure.

Prof. Anthony Waititu, JKUAT statistics lecturer, said these initiatives connect students with the private sector, sharpen their skills, and provide constructive engagement that discourages harmful behaviors such as crime and drug abuse. He urged government and industry to support young innovators, noting their potential to improve public services and enhance business operations.

Zakhele Khathide, Senior Manager at Adapt IT, praised the students’ creativity and encouraged them to remain committed, noting Africa’s youth hold the solutions to pressing challenges.

Student innovators, including Alvin Waweru and Maureen Wanjala, said the hackathon boosted their confidence and inspired them to advance their projects. They called on government and donors to provide resources to scale their innovations and create employment opportunities.

The event, sponsored by Adapt IT, Oracle, Microsoft, KNBS, KAPS, Power Learn Project, and JKUAT, awarded participants with medals, trophies, and cash prizes. Several industry partners also offered on-the-spot job opportunities, underscoring the potential of such initiatives to bridge the gap between education and employment.