PS Susan Mang’eni Challenges University Students to Embrace Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Principal Secretary for MSME Development Susan Auma Mang’eni has challenged universities and colleges to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation and industry linkages as Kenya prepares a skilled workforce capable of driving economic transformation.

Speaking during the matriculation ceremony at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, where she joined more than 7,000 first-year students, the PS urged learners to look beyond graduation and reflect on the contribution they can make to their communities, the economy and the country.

Mang’eni called for entrepreneurship to be embedded as a core component of university education, including in technical disciplines, to ensure graduates leave institutions of higher learning with an entrepreneurial mindset and the capacity to create opportunities rather than only seek employment.

She also challenged Masinde Muliro University to establish and strengthen innovation and enterprise hubs where students can transform ideas into practical solutions, develop businesses and scale their innovations.

Drawing lessons from South Korea’s successful incubation hubs, Mang’eni said the State Department for MSME Development was ready to partner with the university to build stronger platforms connecting students to mentorship, practical skills, markets and enterprise opportunities.

Her message reflects the growing need for stronger collaboration between Government, industry and institutions of higher learning so that Kenya’s education system remains responsive to the changing demands of the economy.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo similarly challenged the students to pursue lives defined by purpose, integrity, innovation and impact. He urged them not to focus solely on passing examinations, but to acquire the knowledge, skills and competence required to transform society.

The call places universities at the centre of Kenya’s broader enterprise and innovation agenda, with students encouraged to view their education not simply as a pathway to employment, but as a foundation for creating solutions, building enterprises and contributing meaningfully to national development.