Gretsa University graduates urged to embrace innovation

By LAWRENCE ONGARO

Graduates of Gretsa University in Thika have been urged to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the global employment landscape.

The university’s Board Chairman, Dr Kibathi Mbugua, said although the graduates had successfully completed their studies, technological advancements, particularly AI, had significantly changed the world of work.

He described AI as an important component of modern technology but cautioned graduates against misusing it.

“AI technology should not be used as a shortcut to achieve certain goals but rather as a tool for creating meaningful benefits,” said Dr Mbugua.

He urged graduates to become innovative and explore alternative career opportunities as AI continues to reshape various industries.

Dr Mbugua said the university was also developing distance-learning programmes to enable students to pursue their studies remotely through modern technology.

He further called on the Government to extend student loan opportunities to private universities, arguing that they play a significant role in expanding access to higher education.

He made the remarks on Friday, October 30, during the university’s graduation ceremony, where more than 800 students received degrees, diplomas and certificates.

AI reshaping employment opportunities

Dr Mbugua said research had shown that AI was increasingly replacing some traditional jobs, making it necessary for graduates to consider self-employment and entrepreneurship.

The university’s Chancellor and AI expert, Charles Klasson, similarly challenged young people to explore opportunities in entrepreneurship rather than rely entirely on formal employment.

Some of the more than 800 Gretsa University graduates who received their degrees, diplomas and certificates on Friday, October 30./LAWRENCE ONGARO

He said AI had significantly reduced employment opportunities in several large organisations and banks.

Klasson emphasised the importance of creating businesses and innovative ventures that could provide young people with sustainable livelihoods.

Meanwhile, the university’s founder and benefactor, Dr Margaret Mbugua, urged the graduates to respect their parents and remain disciplined as they embarked on the next chapter of their lives.

She encouraged them to develop their own businesses and take advantage of available opportunities.

“Now that you have completed your studies, make every effort to remain disciplined and humble,” she advised.

Dr Mbugua also urged the graduates to appreciate the importance of cooking, describing it as one of the essential life skills everyone should understand.