Students waiting for college and university placement have been encouraged to attend the 1st National Career Conference and Exhibition 2026, as the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service steps up efforts to guide learners before the placement process begins. The three-day event will be held from January 27 to 29 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.
KUCCPS said the conference is designed to bring together students, parents, universities, TVET colleges, industry players and government agencies under one roof. The aim is to give learners a clear picture of career options, training pathways and current trends in the job market at a time when many are preparing for their next move after secondary school.
In a statement, the placement agency said the event will provide wide exposure to training and career opportunities across different sectors.
“Over 100 institutions will be showcasing their programmes, while students get access to expert career guidance, mentorship forums, and discussions on emerging careers.”
The agency said it will also offer on-site placement clinics during the conference to support students with applications and transitions. This, it noted, reflects its growing role beyond placement, positioning itself as a long-term career partner for learners.
The timing of the conference comes as candidates who sat the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examinations await the official opening of the placement portal. KUCCPS said the forum gives students an early chance to prepare, seek guidance and make informed decisions before submitting their choices.
Participants will benefit from sessions led by experts who will guide them on selecting degree and TVET programmes that match their skills and interests. Students will also have the opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders through mentorship forums, allowing them to gain first-hand insight into different professions.
The exhibition will feature national universities, TVET institutions, professional bodies and private sector partners, offering a broad view of education and training options available in the country. Organisers said this will help learners compare programmes and better understand the link between training and employment.
The conference will also host policy dialogue forums aimed at bringing together education stakeholders and government agencies. These discussions are intended to align training programmes with national development needs and labour market demands.
KUCCPS said the event marks a shift in how the agency supports students, moving from a focus on placement alone to active career guidance. “In essence, the conference ensures that every Kenyan student has a clear, actionable roadmap for their professional journey,” the agency stated.
The event is themed “Informed Career Choices: A Skilled and Competitive Workforce,” and is expected to offer students a platform to meet mentors, explore institutions and gain insight into new and growing career fields.
With career guidance, mentorship and hands-on support offered in one place, KUCCPS said the conference aims to equip students with the knowledge and confidence needed to plan for the future.
According to the Ministry of Education, a total of 270,715 candidates qualified for direct university entry after attaining grade C+ and above in the 2025 KCSE examinations. Out of these, 1,932 candidates scored an A plain, highlighting the large number of learners expected to seek placement in universities and colleges this year.
