Over 50,000 students graduate annually from Kenyan universities, with hopes of joining the job market. However, a pressing question remains: Are they adequately prepared for the transition and do they understand what the potential employers are looking for?
To bridge the gap between academia and industry, the Department of Construction Management in the College of Engineering and Technology at JKUAT in collaboration with the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) organized a career talk on February 20, 2025 for students pursuing Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate.
Students were introduced to the role of ISK and the compelling reasons for membership, opportunities to engage in various activities including joining the Young Surveyors’ Committee, were highlighted.
It was also noted that employers prefer candidates who are affiliated to professional bodies, as this indicates a commitment to ethical standards and regulations.
Membership with ISK offers an array of benefits and opportunities. Students can have their articles published in the institution’s magazine thus enhancing visibility and potentially connecting them with future employers. Additionally, they can access numerous training sessions designed to keep them abreast of evolving trends and technologies in the industry.
During an engaging discussion, the Secretary of the Estate Agency at ISK, Mr Antony Maina, shared valuable insights on career development in real estate. He emphasized the importance of diversification and the need to remain alert to opportunities, expressing his concern that professionals outside real estate often identify prospects more readily than those immersed in the field.
“Be open-minded and explore the various avenues available. This mindset will enable you to think beyond traditional employment routes and empower you to establish a foothold in the market,” Mr. Maina advised the students.
He further encouraged students to seek assistance from mentors already established in the industry, so as to gain insights into the skills currently in demand and the opportunities that exist for their professional development.
The Chair of the Department, Dr. Adeline Ndindi, appreciated the ISK representative for their positive participation and impact. In her speech, read by Ms. Florence Njau, she described the career talk as essential for students to grasp trends in dynamic market.
“This event is not just about learning the intricacies of the industry; it serves as a vital opportunity for us to strengthen collaboration between academia and practice, in doing so, we can effectively bridge the gap between the theoretical knowledge we impart and the practical skills needed in the field,” Dr. Ndindi stated.
She urged ISK to provide students with additional learning opportunities, such as sponsorship for conferences and industry events, along with accessible resources like research publications. Such support she noted, would cultivate a robust knowledge base crucial for their development.
