RIARA UNIVERSITY TO ESTABLISH MAIN CAMPUS IN KONZA TECHNOPOLIS.

BY BERNARD MULWA 

Riara University is set to establish its new main campus in the heart of Konza Technopolis, marking a bold step in the institution's mission to align with Kenya’s growing innovation ecosystem. The announcement was made by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Robert Gateru, during a media interview following the conclusion of a six-month entrepreneurial leadership training program hosted by the Kenya Innovation Agency.

RIARA UNIVERSITY VICE CHANCELLOR PROFESSOR ROBERT GATERU. 

Speaking exclusively with Prime News Agency in Nairobi, Professor Gateru shared the university’s ambitious plans for the future of higher education, emphasizing the role of innovation in shaping the next decade. He stressed the importance of universities evolving to meet the demands of the fast-changing global landscape, warning that institutions that fail to reinvent themselves may not survive the next ten years.

"Konza Technopolis is a dynamic environment with a concentration of industries and innovation. We see this as a perfect opportunity for Riara University to play a central role in driving economic growth through research, startups, and job creation," said Professor Gateru.

He outlined a comprehensive strategic plan for the university’s future, highlighting its shift toward becoming an entrepreneurial hub. Under this plan, Riara University will not only focus on theoretical education but also foster practical research that can be commercialized, helping graduates become job creators rather than job seekers. This transformation aligns with Kenya's vision of building a knowledge-based economy that leverages innovation and technology.

In response to questions about bridging the gap between academia and industry, Professor Gateru emphasized the need to redesign university curricula to focus on outcomes rather than inputs. "We must ensure that what we teach aligns with industry needs, and universities should actively involve industries in the learning process. Professors must be entrepreneurs themselves, not just academics who teach entrepreneurship from a textbook," he said.

Professor Gateru also underscored the importance of universities engaging directly with industry events and fostering partnerships that lead to mutually beneficial collaborations. "It’s crucial for universities to be visible in the marketplace and engage in dialogue with industry leaders to ensure our programs remain relevant," he added.

Looking ahead, Professor Gateru expressed confidence that African universities, including Riara University, have a critical role to play in driving innovation across the continent. With Africa's youthful demographic set to continue growing, universities must equip students with the skills and mindset to create their own businesses, thus addressing the challenge of job creation in an ever-expanding economy.

“The traditional model of teaching students and hoping someone will employ them is no longer enough. We must redefine the role of universities in creating an innovation-driven economy,” said Professor Gateru.

Riara University's move to Konza Technopolis is part of a larger vision to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem that not only addresses the challenges of today but also anticipates the opportunities of tomorrow. With its new strategic direction, Riara University is positioning itself as a key player in the future of education, innovation, and economic development in Kenya and beyond.