President William Ruto has urged Kenyan universities to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies — especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) — as the country unveils its National AI Strategy 2025–2030, a roadmap aimed at positioning Kenya as a regional leader in emerging technologies.
Speaking at State House Nairobi on Monday during the awarding of a charter to Gretsa University, President Ruto said the strategy provides a clear framework for responsible AI governance, integration of AI across key sectors, and the growth of a vibrant local innovation ecosystem.
“The future of education is being reshaped by Artificial Intelligence,” he said. “I urge all universities to integrate AI into their teaching, research, and institutional operations.”
The President commended the Ministry of Education for developing a national Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) policy, which he said will guide the rollout of structured, high-quality online learning across universities.
Ruto emphasized that strong foundations in research and innovation remain essential for universities to fulfil their mandate.
“Institutions must bridge the gap between theory and practice so that their graduates become job creators, innovators, and central actors in Kenya’s industrialisation and economic growth,” he noted.
The President also highlighted the critical role of private universities, saying they expand access to higher education, offer flexible and industry-aligned programmes, and enrich the diversity of Kenya’s academic landscape.
Reflecting on Gretsa University’s growth, he praised its steady rise since welcoming its first degree cohort in 2006. To date, the institution has held 13 graduation ceremonies and produced more than 8,500 graduates across degree, diploma, and certificate programmes.
“These men and women are now distinguished contributors to Kenya and the world,” he said, describing the award of the charter as a demonstration of successful collaboration between government and the private sector.
Looking ahead, President Ruto announced that universities will admit the first cohort of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) graduates in 2029, marking a major shift in Kenya’s education system. The government, he said, is committed to ensuring institutions, faculty, and curricula are adequately prepared.
He added that universities must embrace modern pedagogies, practical learning models, staff retraining, and lifelong learning to support this transition and remain globally competitive.
The event was attended by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, officials from the Commission for University Education, Gretsa University Chancellor Kibathi Mbugua, and Vice-Chancellor Peter Ndichu Karanja.
