OUK Unleashes Next-Gen Innovators into Kenya’s Tech Ecosystem
In a vibrant display of innovation, ambition, and academic excellence, Open University of Kenya (OUK), in partnership with six other premier institutions, proudly celebrated the graduation of 39 trailblazing students from the Rapid Tech Skills Program on Tuesday, May 28, 2025.
The joint graduation ceremony, held at the Kenyatta University Amphitheatre, was a momentous occasion that signaled not only the end of a rigorous training journey, but the dawn of a new era in Kenya’s digital landscape.
The program, a key initiative under the Kenya Industry and Entrepreneurship Project – Strengthening Kenya’s Innovation Ecosystem (KIEP-SKIES), is funded by the World Bank and designed to prepare youth for Kenya’s dynamic tech-driven economy. By blending cutting-edge technical education with entrepreneurial acumen, the program empowers graduates to become agile contributors in fields critical to national development.
Delivered collaboratively by seven universities—OUK, Kenyatta University, JKUAT, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Kibabii University, Technical University of Mombasa, and Mama Ngina University College—the initiative reflects a united national effort to transform higher education into a launchpad for industry-relevant innovation.
The graduates were trained in globally sought-after domains including:
- Data Science & Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Cybersecurity
- Software Engineering
- Entrepreneurship & Soft Skills – a unifying module tailored to build business agility and team leadership.
Presiding over the ceremony was the Principal Secretary, State Department for Industry, Dr. Eusebius Juma Mukhwana who issued certificates to the graduates. From OUK, notable attendees included Prof. Omulando (Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic Affairs), Prof. Chepken (Deputy Vice Chancellor – Planning and Infrastructure), Dr. Catherine Kagucia (Registrar Academics), Dr. Beth Kiratu (Dean, School of Science), and Ms. Lilian Mbonari (Administrative Assistant), each representing OUK’s continued commitment to transforming lives through innovation-driven learning.
“This is not just a graduation—it is a launchpad,” said Prof. Omulando. “We are not only building tech capacity; we are cultivating Kenya’s future innovators, thinkers, and industry leaders.”
As the sun set on an electrifying day, the message was clear: these graduates are not merely job seekers—they are solution creators, equipped with the digital tools and entrepreneurial mindsets to shape Kenya’s tomorrow.