Beyond the Classroom: Empowering Students for Industrial Excellence
By Cynthia Grace,
The Jomo Kenyatta Human Resource Student Association (JKHRSA), in collaboration with the Center for Research Consultancy and Capacity Development (CRECCAD) organized a successful Pre-Attachment Workshop for third-year Human Resource and Management students at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) main campus.
The workshop aimed to prepare students for their upcoming industrial attachment by providing valuable insights into industry expectations, ethical workplace conduct, and strategies on how to make the most out of their attachment experience.
Dr. Rebecca Ann Maina, Patron of JKHRSA, officially opened the event by emphasizing its importance in bridging the gap between theory and practice. “This workshop is instrumental in equipping students with practical skills for their industrial attachment. It also provides networking opportunities with professionals who can offer guidance
and support,” said Dr. Maina.
An industrial attachment is a mandatory part of undergraduate and diploma programs, typically conducted in the third or fourth year, with a standard duration of 8–12 weeks (2–3 months). Key training areas not only involved securing industrial attachment opportunities but also included workplace professionalism, effective communication, and networking. Students also engaged with panelists and peers from other institutions, including Human Resource students from Kenyatta University, making the event a dynamic, inclusive forum for learning and interaction.
The Chief Guest, Mr. James Mugwe, Founder and Managing Director of Lead Edge Solutions Ltd and a Management; Technology Consultant empowered students by discussing the functional, managerial, and strategic competencies needed to thrive in the institution they are attached to.
“Before starting your attachment, create a list of the skills you want to develop, both hard and soft skills. These will help you align with the institution’s culture and succeed in your role,” he advised. Mr. Mugwe also encouraged students to broaden their mindset on attachment opportunities, reminding them that valuable experience can also be gained in smaller organizations where responsibilities are often more integrated.
On the other hand, the students found the event both informative and impactful. Joy Wangari, JKHRSA Organizing Secretary and a third-year Human Resource Management student at JKUAT, “I gained critical insights into securing placements, professionalism, networking, and understanding industry expectations.”
Mary Muraya, a student from Kenyatta University pursuing a degree in Human Resource Management, expressed her satisfaction with the event. “My expectations were fully met. I learned how to stand out during attachment, I have connected with HR professionals, and understood the common mistakes to avoid.”
The JKHRSA, officially launched on February 7, 2025, seeks to empower Human Resource students through professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The club’s mission is to foster a culture of excellence and innovation in the Human Resource field under the leadership and mentorship of Dr. Rebecca Ann Maina.
