Karatina University successfully hosted its 13th Annual Career Week under the theme “Bridging the Gap: Education, Industry and Career Excellence on 12th and 13th March 2025.” This event held annually was organized by the Directorate of Career Services, University Industry Linkages and Alumni Services. The aim of this is to provide insights and mentorship and guidance in career opportunities. It brought together secondary school students, university students, staff, and industry partners to offer career guidance and mentorship. The first day saw a strong turnout, with students from ten high schools including Mathaithi Girls High School, Kanjuri Boys, Giakaibei Secondary, General China High School among others.
From left Prof. John Oluoch Director placements KUCCPS, Prof. Franklin Wabwoba DVC ARSA, Dr. Agnes Wahome the CEO KUCCPs, Dr. Dezzline Ondigo Director Career Services and University Industry Linkages, Prof. Margaret Mwenje Director Community Outreach and Mr. Felix Ruto incharge of ICT at KUCCPs
The event was officially launched by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Research, and Student Affairs on behalf of the Vice Chancellor. In his remarks he emphasized on the importance of early career planning urging the students to take advantage of such forums to make informed career choices about their future. He reaffirmed Karatina University’s commitment to mentorship and community outreach, encouraging students to seek guidance whenever needed.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Agnes Wahome, CEO of KUCCPS, delivered the keynote address, appreciating the university choir for their performance and highlighting the importance of nurturing both academic and extracurricular talents. She commended the university for organizing the event to mentor and offer guidance to the young generation. In her remarks she urged students to be intentional about their career paths by considering four key factors: their ambitions, what they love doing, the subjects they excel in, and the needs of the job market. She further encouraged students to take full advantage of the event, interact with experts, and explore the many opportunities available. She also emphasized the role of mentorship in shaping successful careers and encouraged students to consider Karatina University as a world-class institution where they could build their futures.
The students during the career week event
The event was supported by Britam, Mathira Water and Sanitation Company, KUCCPS, Pioneer Insurance, HELB, Ndung’u Finance Global, BioCosmos Kenya, and ICT Authority. These industry partners engaged students in discussions on career growth, financial support for education, and professional development opportunities. On the second day, BioCosmos Kenya introduced students to research opportunities, grants, and conferences in intelligence design, proposing a collaboration with Karatina University to host a public lecture and establish a student club in the field.
Ndung’u Finance Global was represented by the CEO Ms. Naomi Ndung’u who is also the founder of the company and a proud alumna of Karatina Univeristy having graduated in 2021 with a degree in Acturial Science. She urged the students to take advantage of the opportunities presented to them like the career week to gain insights and seek guidance on their various fields. She encouraged students to network, explore online short courses, and continuously build their skills to remain competitive in the evolving job market.
Through insightful discussions, mentorship, and industry collaborations, the 13th Annual Career Week effectively bridged the gap between education and industry, equipping students with the knowledge and tools needed for career excellence. The event reaffirmed Karatina University’s role in preparing students for future opportunities and ensuring they make informed decisions about their academic and professional journeys.