On Wednesday 20^th July 2022, Daystar University hosted the first ever, Industry-Academia workshop at the University’s Nairobi Campus. The networking engagement was aimed at addressing gaps that existed between classroom teaching and industry expectations.  

The workshop was organised by the DVC Academic Research and Student Affairs, Prof. Faith Nguru, in partnership with Daystar University Alumni Association (DUAA). 

The workshop was co-hosted by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Laban P. Ayiro and the Academic, Research and Student Affairs Committee of the University Council, chaired by Mr. Allan Bukusi.  

Prof. Faith Nguru was at hand to welcome the guests and students to the workshop.  

The Chief Guest, CEO of the Commission for University Education, Prof. Mwenda Ntarangwi encouraged students to make the most of their time at the university. He urged them to join clubs and associations, as well at attend social events and presentations, saying that students learn a lot from such forums. 

The speakers who included Daystar University alumni, shared their experiences and nuggets of wisdom with students.  

These included the CEO of ZinduaKaria, Ms Edna Semiti, Head of Brand & Communications, Sendy, Mr. Edwin Kuria, Founder and President of Juror Box, Ms. Dissi Obanda,  TV Host, Artist, Emcee, Screenwriter and Creatives, Mr. Yafesi Musoke,  CEO, Kenya Film Commission, Mr. Timothy Owase, Leadership Consultant, Leadership Author, Speaker & Coach, Mr. Anthony T. Gitonga, and Project Director of Ajira, Kenya Private Sector Alliance, Dr. Ehud Gachugu. 

Ms. Edna Semiti underscored six things employers looked for in a graduate namely: experience, maturity, reliability, taking initiative, teachability, and team spirit.  

Urging students to acquire digital skills, Dr. Ehud Gachugu warned that 50 per cent of jobs will be automated over the next 10 years and at the same time see the emergence of new job categories. 

Chair, Academic Committee of Council Mr. Alan Bukusi said that experience is not what you get but it is what you have done with your time. “Good things start small, great things last forever.”  

Moving the vote of thanks, the Corporate Affairs Manager, Mrs. Damaris Kimilu, reminded participants that industry was open to everyone, and that one just needed to know what they are looking for. 

Participants called for annual workshops of a similar nature.