• Munene said the digital era continues to rapidly evolve, citing the emergence of digital governments, digital economies, digital currencies and digital societies.
Image: John Kamau
Zetech University has invested heavily in ICT programmes to supplement and fix the skill gaps in the job market.
This is being done through its incubation hub that seeks to exploit innovation and technology as an enabler for job creation.
Vice chancellor Prof Njenga Munene said on Tuesday the world has embraced technology and organisations are in constant demand of a tech-savvy workforce.
“Shortage of critical tech skills in the region is constraining local businesses and slowing economic growth. Individuals and companies must keep up with the technological disruptions, trends, problems, and opportunities to make better and sustainable career, commercial, and institutional decisions,” he said.
Munene said the digital era continues to rapidly evolve, citing the emergence of digital governments, digital economies, digital currencies and digital societies.
“All these must leverage technology to effect transformation and impact health, transport, urban living, government services, climate change, environmental conservation, access to education and economic opportunities, among other societal needs,” he said.
A recent report compiled by Google and the International Finance Corporation shows that of the estimated 690,000 software developers in Africa, approximately 60,000 are from Kenya.
Munene said this means that Kenya accounts for about nine per cent of the software developers on the continent. The report ranks South Africa at the top with 120,000 software developers, while Kenya takes the fifth place.
“Our country has witnessed a wave of global technology giants such as Microsoft and Google setting up tech development centres in the country. It is a no-brainer that Kenya is on a journey to becoming East Africa's technology hub,” he said.
Courses offered at the university include Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Applied Physics, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Mathematics, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Business Information Technology and Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering.
Others are diplomas in computer science, IT, electrical and electronics engineering, software engineering and other professionally certified courses like Cisco’s range of programmes.
“To support the delivery of these progressive programmes, the university has invested in modern computer laboratories, training software, engineering workshops, an e-library and a highly qualified and experienced faculty equipped with academic and industrial exposure,” Munene said.
The VC said students participate in boot camp training, hackathons, both local and international apprenticeships, and get mentorship through the University’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship (iZet) hub.
"This not only enhances their employability but also nurtures an entrepreneurial culture among the students and faculty. Students also get opportunities to take part in exhibitions where they showcase their projects, learn from peers and receive mentorship on the commercialisation of their innovations,” Munene said.