The transition from university life to the professional world is a critical milestone that requires more than academic knowledge alone. To bridge this gap, the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (SOAES), hosted an insightful Final-Year Students’ Career and Industry Forum on Thursday, 14th March 2026, at the main campus.
The event brought together industry leaders, accomplished alumni, and academic staff to equip students with practical insights and a clear roadmap for professional and personal success as they prepare to enter the job market.
While officially opening the forum, the Principal of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (COANRE), Prof. Daniel Sila, emphasized that the university’s responsibility goes beyond academic training to include equipping students with practical skills, an innovation mindset, and the ability to adapt to evolving professional environments.
In her remarks, the Dean of the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (SOAES), Dr. Lucy Murungi, noted that while the university provides strong technical foundations, exposure to industry perspectives is essential for a smooth transition into professional life.
She reminded students that success in the workplace requires discipline, resilience, and initiative. She further encouraged them to remain proactive and to confidently pursue the diverse opportunities available within the agriculture and environmental sectors.
The keynote speaker, Dr. James Mbui, Chief Executive Officer of AMICA Savings & Credit Ltd, challenged the common perception that education alone guarantees success.
“People confuse being educated with being successful,” he noted. “True success is holistic, encompassing mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and physical well-being.”
He urged students to embrace AI literacy and develop a sustainability mindset in order to remain competitive in the digital era. His practical “survival kit” for job seekers included maintaining a professional CV, organizing documents digitally rather than relying on traditional brown envelopes, and building a network of mentors who continuously challenge and refine their goals.
The session also explored the technical and soft skills demanded in today’s agricultural sector. Mr. Pole Mwadzombo of Amiran Kenya Ltd emphasized that while field experience remains essential, employers increasingly value adaptability, data literacy, and strong communication skills.
From a research perspective, Dr. Everlyne Nguku of the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) reminded students of the importance of professional and social networks. She encouraged them to look beyond local opportunities, viewing their degrees as a passport to global careers in agribusiness, data science, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
A highlight of the forum was the alumni session, where young entrepreneurs shared firsthand experiences of transitioning from university to industry. Mr. Joseph Kinyua, founder of JKsmartFarm, offered a compelling account of overcoming post-graduation challenges to build a thriving agribusiness with a nationwide supply chain.
Adding to the practical insights, Mr. Denis Gichuru, managing director of PlantPlus Services Ltd and Vigitech Systems Ltd, delivered a concise but powerful message: “Stay in motion.” He emphasized that consistent action is a key driver of growth and opportunity.
In a similar vein, Mr. Victor Manyengo of the KIMITEC Group encouraged students to embrace volunteerism and avoid self-limitation when pursuing ambitious roles. He noted that professional breakthroughs often come not only from qualifications, but from persistence and the willingness to remain present until opportunities emerge.
Recognizing the psychological dimension of the transition to professional life, JKUAT Senior Counsellor Ms. Margaret Wainaina led a session on mental wellness. She shared strategies for navigating post-graduation life through self-awareness, stress management, and intentional wellbeing practices, including maintaining social connections, staying physically active, and setting healthy boundaries between work and personal life.
The forum, which brought together students specializing in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agricultural Economics, and Environmental Science, concluded with a dynamic panel discussion on the realities of professional life. The dialogue focused on key issues such as financial adjustment after graduation, balancing employment with entrepreneurship, and practical strategies for launching sustainable careers.
