Principal Secretary for Public Investments and Assets Management Cyrell Wagunda told university leaders at an education summit in Kisumu that public universities hold substantial physical, intellectual and human assets that could be better leveraged for public value.

Wagunda, representing Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, urged institutions to properly account for and maintain assets such as land, buildings, laboratories, ICT infrastructure, research facilities, accommodation and equipment.

He clarified that asset optimisation does not mean outright commercialisation or disposal, but ensuring assets are productive, sustainable and aligned with each university’s academic priorities.

The push includes strengthening intellectual property management, technology transfer, incubation and industry partnerships to turn research outputs into marketable products, businesses and solutions.

Wagunda highlighted that closer collaboration with private firms could create internship and project opportunities for students, linking academic work to real‑world challenges.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has previously called for universities and technical institutions to align curricula with market needs, emphasising digital literacy, problem‑based learning and entrepreneurship.

The government is also encouraging public‑private partnerships as a mechanism for bringing private capital and expertise to make university assets more productive.