MMUST Hosts Career Fair to Equip Students to Become Top-Notch Professionals That Can Thrive in the Global Competitive World
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has convened a two-day Career Fair aimed at equipping secondary students to become top-notch professionals that can thrive in the global competitive world. The event, themed, ‘Nurturing the Next Generation of Professionals for Sustainable Development and Competitiveness,’ has been organized by the Directorate of Career Services led by Prof. Robert Egessa. The Career Fair was attended by industry experts, policymakers, academic leaders, staff and students, who benefited from the comprehensive engagement on career development and emerging opportunities.
The Dean School of Natural Sciences-Dr. Joseph Owino addresses participants at the Career Fair.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Dean School of Natural Sciences-Dr. Joseph Owino, who was representing the Vice Chancellor, urged the students to embrace humility and resilience as they transition into the world of work. He encouraged them to be willing to start from entry-level positions and gradually build their way to the top. He noted that many students are often preoccupied with the question of what comes next after completing their studies, adding that it is important to plan one’s career.
“This Career Fair has the potential of addressing these concerns and provides students a platform for valuable insights and practical guidance on navigating life after campus. I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities presented, including mentorship, networking, and exposure to industry expectations,” said Dr. Owino.
The County Secretary and Head of Public Service- Kakamega County, Dr. Lawrence Omuhaka speaks at the event.
While delivering his address, the County Secretary and Head of Public Service- Kakamega County, Dr. Lawrence Omuhaka, underscored the critical role of professionalism in preparing the next generation of professionals. He defined professionalism as a multi-dimensional concept anchored on Accountability, Competence, Integrity, Discipline, and Mutual Respect.
Additionally, Dr. Omuhaka noted that nurturing future professionals requires deliberate and sustained effort. “This young generation must be guided, mentored, and supported to realize their full potential. They are like ‘young suckers that will grow into bananas,’ and without proper nurturing, society risks losing a vital generation of skilled and responsible individuals,” stated Dr. Omuhaka.
The Director of Career Services- Prof. Robert Egessa makes his remarks during the event.
While chairing a session on career guidance and mentorship, Prof. Egessa engaged university students from diverse faculties in an interactive forum aimed at guiding and inspiring the visiting secondary school learners on making informed career choices. During the session, the students shared personal experiences, highlighting their motivations, challenges, and the factors that influenced their choice of academic and professional pathways. Their testimonies provided relatable insights, encouraging the younger learners to align their interests, strengths, and aspirations when selecting future careers.
One of the sessions involving student engagement.
These exciting activities were punctuated with interludes of musical entertainment which was part of the extravaganza rendered by the MMUST Music students who were led by their lecturer, and Music Maestro- Mr. Fred Kusienya.
A section of the participants at the career fair.
Representing Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), Rev. Peter Rotich who gave a keynote address at the event, challenged the University to strengthen its focus on entrepreneurial training as a key pillar in preparing graduates for the job market. “Institutions of higher learning need to move beyond traditional academic models and integrate practical entrepreneurship skills into their programmes. I encourage you to invest in strategic partnerships with industry players since such collaborations are essential in providing students with real-world exposure, mentorship, and opportunities,” he said.
Students keenly follow presentations at the event.
The well-attended Career Fair brought together a wide range of representatives and industry players, including institutions such as KUCCPS, KASNEB, KISEB, Kakamega County Water and Sanitation Company (KACWASCO), Wevarsity SACCO, Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), and Absa Bank. The organizations showcased their services and engaged directly with students, offering valuable insights into academic pathways and employment opportunities. Some of the secondary schools present during the first day of the event were St. Peters Boys – Mukumu, Kakunga Girls, Kitale School and Mabole Secondary School.
Participants at the event.
This career fair demonstrates that MMUST is among the institutions that are leading the way in equipping students with requisite skills and moulding the next generation of professionals.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Linet Owuor
Photos by Wangari Wambugu
