Mount Kenya University has successfully hosted the 2nd School of Business and Economics (SBE) Symposium at the Mwai Kibaki Convention Centre, bringing together over 3,000 students, entrepreneurs, exhibitors, academic leaders, and industry partners for a major dialogue on entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital transformation.
The symposium attracted participants from MKU campuses in Nairobi, Nakuru, Eldoret, Machakos, Meru, Mombasa, and Thika Main, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration between academia and industry.
The event was co-sponsored by Madison Group Kenya, demonstrating the growing importance of university–industry partnerships in supporting entrepreneurship, SME development, and innovation in Kenya. Other partners includes Unaitas, Nairobi Stock Exchange, ABSA Bank, Liberty ,Heritage and TV47
Universities and Industry Driving the Digital Economy
Speaking during the symposium, the Vice-Chancellor Deogratius Jaganyi emphasized the importance of preparing businesses and graduates for the rapidly evolving digital economy.
“We are witnessing a period of rapid technological transformation where emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, automation, and digital platforms are fundamentally reshaping how businesses operate and compete. Within this rapidly evolving environment, Small and Medium Enterprises remain critical drivers of employment, innovation, and community-based economic growth,” said Prof. Jaganyi.
He noted that strong collaboration between universities, industry, and development partners is essential to ensure that SMEs gain access to the knowledge, digital skills, and technologies needed to compete in modern markets.
Empowering SMEs Through Digital Marketing Training
A key highlight of the Mount Kenya University business symposium was the recognition of entrepreneurs who completed the Digital Marketing Masterclass for SMEs, organized by the School of Business and Economics for entrepreneurs in Thika and Nairobi.
The training program aims to go beyond the classroom by equipping entrepreneurs with practical digital marketing skills, online branding strategies, and digital business tools that help strengthen their enterprises. During the symposium, the second cohort of SME participants was awarded certificates of merit after successfully completing the training.
According to Dr. Mercyline Kamande, the program equips entrepreneurs with practical competencies needed to succeed in the digital marketplace. “The Digital Marketing Masterclass is designed to empower entrepreneurs with practical skills that help them strengthen their online presence, expand their markets, and improve the performance of their businesses. Our goal is to ensure that SMEs are well positioned to leverage digital platforms for growth,” said Dr. Kamande.
The training program is coordinated by Dr. Maria, who has been instrumental in implementing the SME digital skills initiative. Early feedback from participating businesses indicates improved financial performance, increased brand visibility, and stronger customer engagement after adopting digital marketing strategies.
Building Digital and Entrepreneurial Skills for SME Growth
Mount Kenya University continues to position itself as a leader in entrepreneurship training and digital skills development in Kenya. According to Phelista Njeru, Dean of the School of Business and Economics, the university is committed to strengthening SME capacity through research, innovation, and professional training.
“Through initiatives such as executive education, digital skills development, and entrepreneurship programs, the university continues to equip SME leaders with competencies in areas including e-commerce, digital marketing, data analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and intellectual property management,” said Dr. Njeru. She emphasized that universities must play a central role in bridging the gap between research, innovation, and real-world business challenges.
Innovation, Exhibitions and Student Engagement
The MKU School of Business and Economics Symposium also featured business exhibitions, networking sessions, and industry engagement opportunities. Entrepreneurs and exhibitors showcased innovative products, services, and business ideas, giving students valuable exposure to the evolving entrepreneurial and digital business landscape. Students also had the opportunity to interact with industry leaders, explore emerging career opportunities, and learn about entrepreneurship and start-ups development.
Now in its third edition, the Mount Kenya University School of Business and Economics Symposium continues to grow as an important platform connecting education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration.
By bringing together thousands of students, scholars, entrepreneurs, and corporate partners, Mount Kenya University reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening entrepreneurship, advancing digital skills, and supporting SMEs as key drivers of economic growth and innovation in Kenya.
