Young innovators, students and artists are set to benefit from expanded opportunities in science, technology and the creative sector after President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled new cooperation plans during a visit to the University of Nairobi, where they also toured an art exhibition as part of the ongoing Africa Forward Summit.
The visit formed part of activities around the Africa Forward Summit, bringing together leaders, innovators and creatives to discuss the future of technology, research and youth opportunities in Africa.
Speaking during the engagement, President Ruto said Kenya was investing heavily in young people through reforms in education and technology to prepare them for a rapidly changing world.
He emphasized the need for Kenya’s youth to move from simply consuming technology products to becoming innovative and creative young minds that can solve various problems both locally and globally.
“We are investing in our youth to make sure they remain relevant and competitive in an environment where technologies are changing very fast,” Ruto said.
In his speech during the visit, Ruto disclosed that Kenya and France have agreed on constructing the University of Nairobi Science and Engineering Complex which will be a research facility that would serve Kenya and other regions.
According to the President, the center would help advance research activities, innovations and scientific development while giving youths a chance to get involved in science and technology.
During the visit, President Ruto and Macron met the youths who were showcasing various innovative projects and ideas in the university.
Furthermore, the two leaders went for a tour of the University of Nairobi Art Exhibition which had various artistic displays that showcased cultural and historical aspects from both Kenya and France.
President Ruto noted that arts are important in bringing people together and fostering good relations between various nations.
“Art is not only about exhibiting one’s talents; rather, art is a unique means through which cultural interaction takes place,” the President noted.
This exhibition saw the coming together of various young artists, learners and innovators who were keen on showing off their work to the visiting delegates.
On the other hand, this visit was evidence of increased cooperation between Kenya and France in education, innovation, culture and economy.
In Kenya’s effort to become a regional technology center, there have been suggestions by leaders that collaborations with other nations such as France could go a long way in achieving this goal among the youths.
