President William Ruto has urged Kenyan universities to move quickly in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into teaching, research, and training, saying the country’s future workforce must be equipped for a world increasingly shaped by technology.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during a ceremony to award Gretsa University a full charter, the President said institutions of higher learning can no longer afford to delay in adopting modern, industry-driven digital competencies.
“This is the moment for all universities to integrate artificial intelligence,” Ruto said, adding that the next generation of jobs, innovation, and global competitiveness will be built on AI literacy.
He noted that universities must rethink their teaching models, strengthen research, and embrace practical, industry-aligned learning approaches.
Calling the charter award a major milestone, the President applauded Gretsa University for its 15-year journey to full accreditation—one he described as both long and commendable. “Today is a landmark occasion, not only for Gretsa University but also for our nation’s continuing journey towards excellence in higher education,” he said.
Ruto praised the role private universities play in expanding access to higher education, offering flexible programs, and shaping graduates who can respond to emerging labour market needs.
Since enrolling its first degree students in 2006, Gretsa has grown steadily, producing more than 8,500 graduates across certificate, diploma, and degree programs.
“These men and women are now contributors to Kenya, commitment, relevance, and service,” the President noted.
Ruto recalled the reforms that shaped today’s university landscape, including the bold decision to introduce a double intake to end the long waiting period between high school and university entry.
“It put a lot of strain on the resources we had, but it had to be done,” he said.
He also spoke of the push to elevate technical and vocational education, which he said was previously viewed as inferior. Today, he added, courses like engineering, plumbing, and carpentry are essential for national development and global competitiveness.
Ruto reiterated his administration’s reforms in the education sector—among them addressing teacher shortages, realigning the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), and shifting university funding to a student-centered model.
“We have transitioned from competence-based curriculum to competence-based education and training,” he said, noting that nearly 100,000 teachers have been hired in three years.
The President also spoke passionately about Kenya’s human capital, calling it the country’s greatest asset. He said the skills and remittances of Kenyans working abroad now worth more than returns from tea, coffee, and horticulture combined, reflect the strength of local training.
“Our human capital is bigger than any gold or minerals we can find,” he said.
Ruto encouraged universities to embrace innovation, strengthen research, and ensure graduates leave school ready to create jobs and drive industrial growth.
He congratulated Gretsa University’s founders, leadership, and community, saying the new charter symbolizes “vision, progress, and promise” for the institution and the country.
