The Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications and The Digital Economy (MICDE) Mr. Eliud Owalo on Thursday presided over the graduation ceremony at Kenya Institute of Mass Communications (KIMC) Eldoret Campus.

The CS informed the graduates that in the realm of mass communication, they are not mere observers; but architects of information, shapers of narratives, and guardians of truth.

“You, as graduates, now bear the responsibility of wielding the power of communication with integrity and purpose,” Hon. Owalo told the graduates.

He highlighted that technology has changed the way information is shared, emphasizing that social media, online platforms and digital tools have become integral to the dissemination of news, entertainment and diverse perspectives.

CS Owalo encouraged the graduates to fully-embrace the opportunities that technology presents for storytelling and audience engagement. Further urging them to experiment with new mediums, harness the power of virtual reality and explore innovative ways to connect with your audience.

“The digital realm is a canvas waiting for your creative expression and your ability to leverage technology will set you apart in the competitive world of mass communication,” CS noted.

He stated that the Government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) has prioritized the Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy, with a specific focus on equipping the youth with digital skills for digitally-enabled jobs and digital entrepreneurship.

CS Owalo said that recognizing the crucial role of reliable internet connectivity across the country, MICDE is taking the lead in laying 100,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable within the next 5 years. Additionally, there is a concerted effort to establish 25,000 WiFi hotspots nationwide, with a particular emphasis on public spaces such as markets and bus termini.

Furthermore, the government is collaborating with Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions (TVETs) to set up 1450 digital hubs, including initiatives like the Jitume Kazi Labs Initiative and Ajira Digital program. These efforts are designed to empower the youth with the digital skills needed to seize the abundant opportunities in the digital landscape.