By John Kariuki
The Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), Dr. Alice Kande, has called on professionals and students to prioritize upskilling, adaptability, and cross-disciplinary learning to stay relevant in today’s dynamic job market. Speaking as a panelist at the Nairobi International Education Career Fair 2025, Dr. Kande stressed that the traditional approach to career progression, where individuals strictly follow their academic training, is no longer sufficient in a rapidly evolving workforce.
“The job market is evolving, and career paths are no longer limited to one's academic training. To stay competitive, professionals must embrace upskilling and cross-disciplinary opportunities. Adaptability opens doors beyond traditional fields,” Dr. Kande stated.
Her comments come as industries face significant transformations driven by advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, and technology. As a result, employers are increasingly seeking professionals who are versatile, digitally literate, and capable of applying knowledge across diverse fields. The growing demand for hybrid skills, such as combining business expertise with data analytics or merging healthcare knowledge with technology solutions, has made lifelong learning essential for career progression.
Dr. Kande highlighted the importance of continuous skill development, noting that professionals who actively upgrade their knowledge and explore emerging career paths are better equipped for success. While traditional degrees remain valuable, they are no longer a guarantee of career stability. Instead, she urged individuals to adopt a mindset of lifelong learning, pursuing certifications, technical training, and industry-specific expertise in addition to their initial academic qualifications.
The Nairobi International Education Career Fair 2025 served as a vital platform for education stakeholders, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of education and employment. Key discussions centered around aligning Kenya’s education system with the demands of the global job market, ensuring that students and professionals acquire skills that meet evolving industry needs.
Dr. Kande reaffirmed the KNQA’s commitment to maintaining a qualifications framework that is responsive to the ever-changing demands of the labor market. She emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and the private sector to create learning pathways that promote innovation, critical thinking, and technical proficiency.
As Kenya positions itself as a growing hub for global talent, Dr. Kande’s message serves as a call to action for students, professionals, and institutions alike to embrace adaptability, technological advancements, and continuous skill development. With a focus on lifelong learning, the country can ensure that its workforce remains competitive and resilient in an increasingly fast-paced, technology-driven world.
