Karatina University, through the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Extension, hosted the Green Careers Caravan (GCC) on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, providing students with an opportunity to explore career pathways in the green economy and learn how to turn innovative ideas into viable business ventures. In attendance were staff and students drawn from the University’s seven schools, who participated in an engaging programme featuring discussions on the green economy, interactive activities, quizzes and practical innovation sessions.
A section of the students during the Green Careers Caravan workshop
The event was organised by Jacob’s Ladder Africa (JLA), in strategic partnership with the African Development Bank’s Ennova Africa, through its greenlabs initiative. The caravan aims to bridge the gap between higher education and the growing green economy by equipping young people with relevant skills, entrepreneurial knowledge and opportunities to develop solutions to real-world challenges.
In his official opening remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof. Richard Kiai, speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, welcomed the initiative, which aligns with the University’s commitment to nurturing innovation, entrepreneurship and practical solutions to societal challenges.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning, Finance and Administration addressing the audience during the Green Careers Caravan.
A key highlight was an ideation session in which students worked in groups to identify challenges and develop innovative solutions. The session culminated in team presentations, giving participants an opportunity to communicate their ideas and gain experience in presenting potential solutions.
Through the greenlabs activities, students were introduced to the process of developing ideas, identifying opportunities and exploring how solutions to environmental and societal challenges can be transformed into sustainable enterprises. The programme encouraged students to view challenges in areas such as renewable energy, waste management and the circular economy as opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Students were also introduced to the Green Careers Caravan Innovation Challenge, which provides a pathway for young innovators to develop their ideas further through learning, mentorship and incubation opportunities. The initiative also offers participants opportunities to engage through the Ennova Africa online platform, enabling students to continue learning and participating beyond the campus activation.
The students in groups during the ideation session.
The Green Careers Caravan forms part of broader efforts to prepare young people for emerging opportunities in the green economy while encouraging entrepreneurship and the development of solutions that contribute to sustainable development.
Through partnerships with industry and development organisations, Karatina University continues to provide students with opportunities to connect classroom learning with practical experiences, innovation and emerging career pathways.
The team poses for a group photo with student representatives from all the schools.