PS Simon Nabukwesi challenges universities to borrow global best practices if they are to remain competitive

Education Principal Secretary Simon Nabukwesi urged professionals in universities to take up government consultancy services. [iStockphoto]

Local universities have been challenged to seek partnerships in research and exchange programmes with global institutions while preparing students to offer solutions to the country's needs, upon graduation.

Speaking during the 11th graduation ceremony of University of Eldoret on Thursday, Higher Education Principal Secretary Simon Nabukwesi said there is need to borrow best practices from their global counterparts.

"You just don't look at yourself locally, if you do so, you will be playing the local league," said Nabukwesi, who represented Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu.

He urged professionals in universities to take up government consultancy services.

"Graduates should be solution providers to the immediate needs of the country instead as opposed to being passive job seekers. Take advantage of the hustler and other affirmative initiatives, which offer cheap credit for small and medium enterprises," the PS said.

He lauded the university for displaying consistency in teaching the programmes it registered.

"I thank the university for holding a virtual graduation ceremony. This is a sign that you have embraced technology as the new normal even as many universities have slowly returned to physical conduct of operations," he added.

A total of 2,548 graduands were conferred with degrees and diploma certificates.

Vice Chancellor Teresa Akenga said the university has made milestones as a pillar of education in the 10 years it has been a fully-fledged university