By Virginia Siebella.
Young people have been urged to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for innovation and job creation rather than viewing it as a threat to employment opportunities.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony at Nairobi South College in Kitengela, Dr. Wahome Rureri from the Ministry of Education’s State Department for Higher Education said AI should be utilized to enhance creativity, improve productivity, and open up new avenues for employment.
Dr. Rureri emphasized that technological advancement should not be feared, noting that young people have an opportunity to use emerging technologies to create solutions and generate income. He challenged graduates to become job creators instead of waiting for employment opportunities.
“The future belongs to innovators and problem-solvers. Artificial Intelligence should be seen as a tool that empowers young people to develop new ideas and create opportunities,” he said.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the neglect of the boy child, calling for renewed efforts to strengthen mentorship and guidance programs aimed at supporting young men.
Additionally, Dr. Rureri urged graduates to uphold integrity, discipline, and professional ethics as they enter the job market, saying that good values remain essential for career growth and success.
One of the graduates, Agnes Kimanthi, encouraged fellow youth to remain focused and make practical use of the knowledge and skills acquired in college. She said determination and innovation would enable young people to build better futures for themselves.
Meanwhile, Nairobi South College Kitengela Director Josephat Anjiri and other education stakeholders called on the government to establish effective policies and programs aimed at reducing the rising number of unemployed graduates.
They noted that while institutions continue to equip students with relevant skills, stronger collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and the private sector is necessary to create employment opportunities and support entrepreneurship among young people.
The stakeholders emphasized that empowering graduates with skills, innovation, and access to opportunities will be critical in addressing youth unemployment and promoting sustainable economic growth.
