As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, the University of Nairobi has positioned itself as a hub for sustainable innovation with the inaugural Green Jobs Career Fair and Conference held from February 20-21, 2025. The conference—organized by the Engineering Students Association (ESA) in partnership with the Office of Career Services—aimed to bridge the gap between academia and the growing green economy. Discussions delved deep into the nuances of energy transitions, adaptation strategies, and policy frameworks, challenging conventional thinking and igniting fresh perspectives.

“This forum will inspire all of us to take personal initiative toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world,” said Rahma Anuro, a Civil Engineering student and ESA President, during the opening remarks. “Through in-depth discussions, we have the opportunity to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and ignite real change in our communities.”

The event underscored the urgent need for young professionals to embrace green skills as the job market shifts toward sustainability. Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eng. Siphila Mumenya, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, applauded the student-led initiative, saying, “I am thrilled to see our students taking the lead in organizing this innovative conference. Such forums offer hope that graduates will not only secure jobs but also create employment.”

“The transition to green jobs requires a collective commitment between the public and private sector, as it is a viable strategy for reducing unemployment in Kenya,” Prof. Mumenya stated. “We must encourage our students to upskill and reskill in green competencies to expand their opportunities.”

Prof. Alfred Opere, Chairman of the Green Jobs Centre Implementation Committee representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), reinforced this message. “We are setting the pace in technological advancements and labor market dynamics,” he said. “The Green Jobs Centre Implementation Committee at UoN is working toward establishing a nationwide hub to equip young people with skills in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and wastewater management.”

“The green economy is the future of work,” remarked Dean of Students Mr. Johnson Kinyua. “We are continously preparing our graduates for emerging industries through meaningful partnerships and career fairs that bridge academia and the workforce.”

With over 40 exhibitors, the career fair showcased opportunities in renewable energy, sustainable construction, and environmental conservation. Representatives from organizations such as KenGen, Kenya Space Agency, National Housing Corporation, and Green Motion engaged students in discussions about the future of work in the green economy.

 “Green entrepreneurship, research, and investment are key drivers of sustainability,” said keynote speaker Chen Yu Hui from the Global Trade Centre. “The path to sustainability requires collective effort—academia and industry must work together to create tangible solutions.”

As the curtains closed on the two-day event, one thing was clear: the future of work is green, and the University of Nairobi is leading the charge in preparing the next generation of sustainability champions.