Kibabii University on 29th October 2025 officially launched its 12th Cultural Week, an annual event that brings together students, staff, and community to celebrate cultural diversity and emerging talents. The four-day event rides under the theme: “Navigating Modern Challenges Through Our Unique Cultural Diversity and Talent,”. The ceremony was graced by the Principal Secretary, State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Hon. Susan Auma Mang’eni, CBS, who was the Chief Guest. The PS was received by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Julius Ogendo, alongside DVC (Administration, Finance and Development), Prof. Siamba, and the Dean of Students, Dr. Leunita Makila.
In her keynote address, Hon. Mang’eni lauded Kibabii University for providing a platform that nurtures creativity and entrepreneurship among students. She emphasized that Kenya’s future lies in unlocking the potential of its youthful population.
“Kenya is a young nation with an average age of just 20 years. Every year, about 1 million youth enter the job market, yet only about 200,000 are absorbed into formal employment. We must therefore channel our energy into strengthening the MSME sector, which is the true backbone of our economy,” she noted.”
The PS highlighted the Government’s deliberate strategy to promote innovation, incubation centres, financial literacy, and digital literacy across higher learning institutions to prepare students for self-employment and enterprise development. She further disclosed the rollout of the Kenya Jobs Economic Transformation Project, a USD 150 million initiative aimed at boosting MSMEs through value chain development, industrialization, and job creation.
Hon. Mang’eni also emphasized the link between culture and economic resilience, observing that cultural diversity is not just an identity marker but a source of creativity and social cohesion.
“Our culture defines us, and it is through our diversity that we find strength to innovate and grow,” she remarked, commending Kibabii University for its continued efforts in promoting cultural awareness, inclusivity, and talent development.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Julius Ogendo, the Acting Vice Chancellor, reiterated the University’s commitment to fostering holistic growth among students through culture, innovation, and talent-based initiatives.
“At Kibabii University, we believe that culture is not static; it evolves with innovation and provides a framework for navigating modern challenges. This year’s theme reflects our aspiration to empower young people to use their unique identities and talents to solve real-world problems,” he stated.
Prof. Ogendo thanked the Ministry of MSMEs for its support and partnership, noting that such collaborations open pathways for students to transform their ideas into sustainable enterprises. He also encouraged students to make the most of the week-long event, which features exhibitions, cultural performances, and entrepreneurial showcases.
The 12th Cultural Week runs from 29th October to 1st November 2025, and will include a mix of music, dance, traditional fashion shows, art exhibitions, and innovation fairs, all showcasing the creativity and resilience of Kenya’s youth.
