By Johana Mwangi
The Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) held a two-day mentorship programme on 4th and 5th February at Chuka University, bringing together students from universities and TVET institutions to nurture the next generation of public policy leaders under the theme “National Values and Principles of Governance.
The programme was officially opened by Chuka University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Henry Mutembei M’Ikiugu. Representing KIPPRA were Board Member Mr Joseph Tiampati and Principal Librarian Ms Winnie Nguyu, standing in for the Board Chair and Executive Director respectively. Also present were the University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Professor Jonah Nyaga Kindiki and Professor Gilbert Mbaka Nduru. The mentorship sessions were moderated by KIPPRA Policy Analyst Mr Sylvanus Opiyo.
On the first day, participants were introduced to the public policy-making process by Ms Mercy Owich, a KIPPRA Young Professional, and attended a presentation on National Planning and Youth Talent Promotion by Dr Evelyne Anupi from the State Department for Economic Planning, aligning with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Afternoon sessions focused on harnessing national values for socio-economic development, led by Mr Rheon Makau from the Directorate of National Values. This was followed by a lecturers’ panel discussion on “Universities and TVETs as Catalysts for Youth Talent Promotion and Monetisation”, featuring Professor Jafford Ridhaa and Ms Maureen Kajuju, moderated by Ms Catherine Gatetua. Discussions explored how higher education institutions can incubate innovation, strengthen industry linkages, and support students to turn talents into sustainable livelihoods.
The second day highlighted personal and professional development. Ms Esther Katiba, Human Resource expert and Mental Health Counsellor, presented on “From Talents to Careers: Professional Development and Career Management for Kenya’s Youth,” emphasising personal growth, branding, integrity, and continuous learning.
Participants were also inspired by Ms Pamela Triza Apuko, founder of BanaGirl Sanitary Pad, who showcased eco-friendly sanitary pads made from banana fibres, demonstrating how local resources can be transformed into sustainable innovations.
Expert sessions included Mr George Kiogora from the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) on intellectual property and institutionalising youth talents, and Ms Agnes Kanyingi from NACADA Tharaka Nithi County on healthy living, positive character formation, and productive youth development.
The mentorship programme concluded with the award of certificates to students for outstanding essays and creative works, including poetry. KIPPRA Board Director Mr Joseph Tiampati thanked Chuka University for its collaboration and emphasised future partnerships to advance Kenya’s national development goals. The forum was officially closed by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Gilbert Mbaka Nduru, who pledged to deepen cooperation through joint research, conferences, and capacity-building initiatives.
