Ruto Urges Universities to Embrace AI, Awards Charter to Gretsa University

 

By Brad Mukopi 

President William Ruto has called on Kenyan universities to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies—especially Artificial Intelligence (AI)—in teaching, research and institutional management, saying AI is rapidly reshaping the future of education.

Speaking at State House Nairobi on Monday during the award of a charter to Gretsa University, President Ruto said the recently launched National AI Strategy 2025–2030 positions Kenya as a regional leader in AI research, innovation and application.

“The strategy supports responsible governance, integrates AI into key sectors, and fosters a vibrant local AI ecosystem,” he said. “I urge all universities to integrate AI into their teaching, research, and institutional operations.”

The President also commended the Ministry of Education for developing a national Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) policy to guide structured, high-quality online learning across universities.

Ruto stressed that research and innovation must remain at the heart of higher education, urging institutions to narrow the gap between theory and practice so that graduates can become job creators and key contributors to Kenya’s industrialisation and growth.

“Education is more than the transmission of knowledge—it is the engine that shapes thinkers, innovators, leaders and problem-solvers well-prepared to secure Kenya’s future,” he said.

He emphasized the vital role of private universities, noting that they expand access to higher education, provide flexible and industry-aligned programmes, and enrich the diversity of the sector.

Reflecting on Gretsa University’s growth, Ruto said the institution has made “steady and impressive” progress since admitting its first cohort of degree students in 2006. It has since held 13 graduation ceremonies and produced more than 8,500 graduates across certificate, diploma and degree programmes.

“These men and women are now distinguished contributors to Kenya and the world, underscoring Gretsa’s commitment to quality, relevance and service,” the President noted.

He described the award of the charter as a testament to effective collaboration between the government and the private sector to uphold academic standards, broaden opportunities and produce graduates capable of driving national development.

Looking ahead, the President announced that universities will admit the first cohort of Competency Based Education and Training (CBET) graduates in 2029. He said the government is committed to ensuring institutions, curricula and faculty are fully prepared for the transition.

“Universities must embrace new pedagogies, practical learning models, staff retooling and lifelong learning to make this transition successful,” Ruto said.