Murkomen challenges graduates to embrace innovation
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Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged graduates to move beyond over reliance on formal jobs and seek innovative, technical skills and entrepreneurship to realize their dreams.
Presiding during the 61st, graduation ceremony of Scott Christian University in Machakos, Murkomen told the Class of 2026 that the country’s future will be shaped by graduates who can combine academic qualifications with practical abilities and innovation to address pressing national challenges.
He lauded the University for integrating technical and vocational training into its degree programs, saying such skills will be critical as the labor market evolves.
“Do not wait only for government employment, apply what you have learned in entrepreneurship, agriculture, technology and other sectors that create opportunities and respond to community needs,” advised Murkomen.
The CS also pointed to the rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies, noting that Kenya needs problem-solvers who can translate knowledge into tangible outcomes.
On security and governance, Murkomen said development was a shared responsibility. He further called on graduates to serve as champions of peace, unity, integrity and responsible citizenship.
“As the Cabinet Secretary for Interior, I am acutely aware that a peaceful and secure Kenya cannot be built by the government alone,” he said.
He encouraged the graduates to reject pessimism about the economy and job market, urging them to treat challenges as openings for innovation.
Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, who also attended the ceremony, said higher education must prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
“Graduation is more than an academic tradition or rite of passage. It signifies new beginnings, new opportunities and new challenges,” Dr. Inyangala said while urging the graduates to carry forward not only knowledge but also values of integrity and service.
Scott Christian University Chancellor Rev. Prof. Jacob Kibor echoed the call for character-driven leadership.
He challenged the Class of 2026 to become creators of opportunity as per the university’s theme, “Empowering Graduates for National Transformation: Innovation, Skills and Integrity.”
“I encourage you to become innovators who create opportunities, solve problems and contribute meaningfully to national development,” Prof. Kibor remarked.
He advised them to pursue lifelong learning and ensure their competence is matched by strong ethical conduct. “Above all, guard your integrity, lasting transformation is built on honesty, accountability, humility and service,” he added.
The combined message from government and university leadership placed employability, innovation, integrity and civic responsibility at the heart of the ceremony as 2026 graduates were sent out to apply their education to community and national transformation.
By Alex Mulili and Anne Kangero
Reporting originally appeared via Kenya News Agency. Read the full source for additional context.