State to link higher learning centres with industries to boost manufacturing

In its efforts to boost manufacturing in the country, the government is now eyeing universities and other institutions of higher learning to boost manufacturing and production.

Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said on Wednesday, while speaking at Zetech University's Research and Innovation Week, that linking universities with industries will help create opportunities for graduates and boost the capacities of industries.

"It opens new doors for sharper green skills, cutting-edge creativity, courage to challenge the status quo, and commitment to inject new thinking and reimagine our systems for a more rewarding tomorrow," said CS Miano.

According to Miano, universities are poised to be thriving hubs of knowledge and research and breeding grounds for innovation. "They are our intellectual capital factories and home to transformational ideas that can yield tangible solutions to cure real challenges."

She explained that the government recognises the role of innovation in driving economic growth, and that is why it has made investments in research and development, particularly within academic institutions.

"By enhancing funding for research projects, providing state-of-the-art facilities, and encouraging collaborations between academia and industry, we are laying the groundwork for a robust innovation ecosystem," said Miano.

In explaining the partnership, the Trade CS explained that collaboration between universities and industries is an essential disruptive process of industrialisation.

Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano at the Zetech University's Research and Innovation Week on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. (Photo: Trade Ministry)

In her view, when academic research is aligned with industry needs, the potential for groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements increases exponentially.

"This synergy leads to the development of products and services that serve market demands while creating new markets and opportunities."

She also added that regeneration is about rebuilding and rejuvenating systems for a more sustainable future.

"In the context of our Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, regeneration means empowering local communities and markets to achieve self-dependence and sustainable growth," she added.

She further reiterated the government's commitment to supporting innovations that contribute to regeneration.

"From where I sit, the government is keen on attracting both local and foreign investments in our innovation ecosystem. We are investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, media and digital disruptions, and circular economy initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and social equity," explained Miano.

During the event, Zetech University showcased its project of developing a rechargeable battery-powered motorbike that keeps up with environmental sustainability.

Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano at the Zetech University's Research and Innovation Week on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. (Photo: Trade Ministry)