Setting a new benchmark for youth empowerment and innovation, Kenyatta University launched the Strategic Tourism Human Capital Initiative for Eastern Africa. This ambitious programme is designed to equip young people with the skills and leadership capabilities needed to thrive in the dynamic and evolving tourism sector. The high-profile event, held at the Kenyatta University Conference Centre, attracted key government, academic, and international figures, underscoring the University’s role in shaping the future of the region.
The Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre - Eastern Africa(GTRCMC-EA), a key Directorate of Kenyatta University, was established to address the pressing challenges facing the tourism industry in Eastern Africa. Through initiatives focused on policy development, capacity building, and crisis management, the Centre is at the forefront of fostering resilience and innovation in the tourism sector.
At the event, Dr. Esther Munyiri, Director of GTRCMC-EA, and Ms. Andie Monet, CEO of Strategic Solutions and Development International, highlighted the Centre's role in driving industry transformation. The launch was further enhanced by the presence of Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, who also chairs the GTRCMC-EA Board of Governors. She was joined by Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Kenyatta University and Board Secretary to GTRCMC-EA, and Prof. Caroline Thoruwa, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Outreach. The event also welcomed students from Kenyatta University, Strathmore University and United States International University (USIU).
Hon. Rebecca Miano praised the Centre for its outstanding leadership and its critical role in reshaping the tourism industry, particularly in the areas of crisis management and resilience. “Youth are the future of tourism,” she remarked, stressing the need for educational institutions to equip students with the skills that will make them highly employable and capable of leading in the tourism sector. She also reaffirmed her commitment to collaborating with the GTRCMC-EA to create programmes that empower young leaders and prepare them for success in the evolving tourism landscape.
Prof. Wanjohi spoke with pride about the University’s numerous accolades in 2024, especially being ranked the Best in Kenya by the Times Higher Education Ranking; exceptional achievements, including its rating as the leading choice for 10,000+ students from the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) cohort. This is a testament to KU’s reputation as Kenya’s top institution for higher education. Prof. Wanjohi also highlighted the University’s leadership in innovation, including its recent recognition as the best in Kenya for innovation, and its successful securing of grants that support academic and technological advancement.
In her remarks, she emphasised the importance of creating strategic partnerships to provide students with invaluable internship and attachment opportunities. She also shared KU’s commitment to leveraging technology, with seamless Wi-Fi connectivity across campus, ensuring that students and staff are connected to global opportunities.
The event saw the launch of seven transformative initiatives aimed at boosting youth engagement and employment opportunities in the tourism and aviation sectors. Among these initiatives is the Top Talent Initiative, designed to connect Kenyans and East Africans with global virtual work opportunities through ICT, expanding career prospects beyond regional borders.
The East Africa Future Leaders Challenge Platform seeks to nurture innovation, leadership, and career development, empowering young people to take on leadership roles within their communities. The Placement International Programme offers paid internships lasting one to two years, providing invaluable hands-on experience and long-term career growth opportunities.
The Erasmus+ Exchange Programme fosters cultural exchange and global mobility between East Africa and Europe, promoting cross-cultural learning and professional networks. The Innovation Centres of Excellence (ICE) aim to equip youth with critical leadership and innovation skills, preparing them for the demands of a rapidly changing job market. Additionally, the IATA Authorized Training Centre for East Africa will introduce globally recognised aviation and tourism training programmes, raising the standards of the region's workforce.
Finally, the Mapping of Tourism Products and Experiences initiative is set to enhance the visibility and accessibility of Kenya and Eastern Africa’s tourism offerings, making them more appealing to global markets. These initiatives reflect a bold step forward in fostering sustainable growth and youth empowerment in the region.
The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to students who had completed mentorship and training under the GTRCMC-EA Mentorship Programme, a testament to the Centre’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders in tourism.
Kenyatta University’s ongoing dedication to quality education, innovation, and youth empowerment is exemplified through these initiatives, positioning the institution as a vital player in addressing regional challenges and fostering sustainable growth. By aligning with global standards and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Kenyatta University continues to pave the way for a more inclusive, prosperous future for youth across Eastern Africa and beyond the borders.