• Citing a World Bank report from 2021, the Vice-Chancellor pointed out a significant demand for digital skills in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the demand surpasses supply. “There are ample opportunities available, and the demand remains higher than the supply,” he stated, emphasizing on the importance of preparing students for this competitive landscape.

Kabarak University has officially launched its Emerging ICT Digital Skills and Programming Academy, an initiative aimed at equipping students with essential digital competencies in an ever-evolving technological landscape. The launch event took place on February 6, 2025, at the university's main campus.

During the ceremony, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ronald Chepkilot emphasized the importance of embracing the digital space for Kabarak University to maintain its status as a center of academic excellence.

Kabarak University Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Ronald Chepkilot. (Photo/Courtesy: Jimmy Mburu)

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“We operate in a digital environment across various sectors—healthcare, higher education, agriculture. The dissemination of information and engagement happens predominantly in this space, and as a university, we are moving in the right direction,” he stated.

This initiative is the result of a partnership between Kabarak University, Pixel Engineering Africa Limited, and Parpus Limited. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry Kiplangat highlighted the significance of this collaboration, noting that the university signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with both institutions to deliver training in emerging ICT skills from an industry perspective.

“We recognize the need to combine theoretical knowledge with practical industry experience. This nexus is crucial,” he said, expressing excitement about the launch of the Academy, which aims to bridge the skills gap created by rapid technological advancements.

Kabarak University Vice Chancellor Prof Henry Kiplangat during the launching of the Emerging ICT Digital Skills and Programming Academy. (Photo/Courtesy: Jimmy Mburu)

Prof. Kiplangat encouraged students to seize the opportunity presented by the new training programs. “You are the tech-savvy generation, and with rapid advancements, it’s essential to be prepared and stay current with new developments,” he added.

He further explained that the skills gap has emerged as a direct consequence of the Industrial Revolution, compelling businesses to re-engineer their processes to keep pace with digitization. “This has created an urgent need for continuous retraining of the workforce,” he noted.

Citing a World Bank report from 2021, the Vice-Chancellor pointed out a significant demand for digital skills in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the demand surpasses supply. “There are ample opportunities available, and the demand remains higher than the supply,” he stated, emphasizing on the importance of preparing students for this competitive landscape.

The rapid pace of technological advancements has outstripped current curriculum provisions, highlighting the vital role tertiary institutions play in equipping students with advanced digital skills. “Our goal is to ensure that our students stand out and fit into the industry,” Prof. Kiplangat affirmed.

He reassured students that Kabarak University is committed to continually reviewing its curricula to stay ahead of industry needs. “We frequently involve industry stakeholders in this process, ensuring that our programs align with job market demands. While jobs may be available, finding candidates with the right competencies remains a challenge, hence the need for innovative training programs,” he explained.

The new academy aims to address the digital skills gap within the curriculum, adapting to the evolving digital landscape. By adopting an industry-academia partnership model, Kabarak University is confident that this initiative will equip students and recent graduates with contemporary skills that enhance their employability.

Pixel Engineering offers various resources, including robots and the Pixel Engineering Academy, which teaches STEM to children, alongside Pixel Electrics, which sells products like drones and robotics.