President William Ruto has issued a set of directives to Kenyan universities as the country prepares for the first intake of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) students in 2029.

Speaking during the GRETSA University charter awarding, the President emphasized the need for comprehensive institutional reforms to accommodate the incoming cohort.

“In 2029, universities will admit the first cohort of Competency-Based Education and Training graduates. The government is fully committed to ensuring that institutions, curricula, and faculty are ready,” President Ruto said, noting that the shift demands significant structural and academic adjustments within higher learning institutions.

“Universities must therefore embrace new pedagogies, practical learning models, staff retooling, and lifelong learning to make this transition successful.”

Ruto highlighted that the entry of CBET students requires universities to adopt more hands-on and learner-centered approaches compared to traditional examination-based models.

The President reiterated that the government would support universities as they realign their programs to meet the standards required under the competency-based transition.

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AI Integration and Digital Transformation Directives

The President also stressed the need for institutions to align their teaching and research functions with emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI).

“As we venture further into the digital era, Artificial Intelligence is redefining the future. Kenya has launched the National AI Strategy 2025-2030, placing our nation at the forefront of AI research, innovation, and application in the region,” Ruto stated.

He said the strategy “supports responsible governance, integrates AI into key sectors, and fosters a vibrant local AI ecosystem.”

Ruto further directed universities to mainstream AI into academic programs, administrative systems, and innovation spaces.

He said the integration of AI was no longer optional but a necessary step for Kenyan institutions to remain competitive globally.

“I urge all universities to integrate AI into their teaching, research, and institutional operations,” he added, acknowledging the growing significance of digital literacy in the modern world.

More to follow…