Responding to the urgency with which university students require to be career-ready, the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) launched its mentorship programme geared towards guiding the next pool of professionals. This now comes as yet another timely intervention for students like Duncan Murithi, a fourth-year student hailing from Kiereni of Chuka, who do not feel ready for employment at graduation due to a lack of proper insight into career pathways.
In fact, Murithi’s experience is no different from that of most other learners who, he said, had virtually received no career development services at secondary school level from teachers and guidance counsellors, parents, or informal networks. KIPPRA intervention has come to bridge the gap in providing structured mentorship and capacity-building opportunities.
KIPPRA’s Mentorship Programme: Objectives and Implementation
Speaking during the launch at the Meru University of Science and Technology, KIPPRA Executive Dr. Rose Ngugi said the programme targets to make more young professionals. Established in 1997 and an institute under the National Treasury and Planning, KIPPRA its mission is to improve work opportunities for tertiary students through word classed mentorship.
Structured for universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVETs) institutions, the programme helps students work towards becoming prepared for the job market. It makes them essential stakeholders in public policy and development through programs aimed at building the capacity of the student to effectively engage in critical issues shaping public policy.
Strategic Partnerships and Long-Term Impact
KIPPRA Board Chairman Dr. Benson Ateng’ reiterated that universities were critical partners in the mentorship program. He observed that involving academic staff and students in major public policy-making processes ensures meaningful development. The mentorship program offers an early start in the student’s academic life and prepares them with the necessary skills and competencies for relevant professional practice and making significant contributions upon graduation.
Prof. Eustace Mwenda of MUST made positive comments about the collaboration with KIPPRA, saying the mentorship program will involve students, academic staff, and other actors in an integral way. The approach is meant to facilitate a conducive environment for developing students in their professional and personal growth.
Bridging the Career Readiness Gap
The structured career guidance and practical training availed by the mentorship program go a long way in closing the gap in the education system that the mentorship program seeks to address. Students, such as Duncan Murithi, have often felt unprepared for the job market, but with various resources now at their disposal, these students can boost their chances of a successful career. Early participation in matters of public policy and development is also inculcated by the program, insisting that students should be active in meeting their futures.
In its mentoring, networking, and capacity-building efforts, KIPPRA is not only preparing students for work but is also contributing to the creation of an informed and competent generation ready to contribute to the development of Kenya. The initiative is a strategic investment in the future of the country, preparing educational outcomes to directly address job market and economic needs.