President William Ruto has directed schools to incorporate the government’s Beyond Vision 2030 agenda into all creative events from next year, as part of efforts to align young people with his administration’s vision for a ‘new Kenya’.
Ruto also tasked Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with operationalising the Kenya National Talent Search in partnership with the private sector to identify and nurture emerging talent among young people.
Speaking on Friday, August 14, during the State Concert for the 98th Kenya Music Festival at Bungoma State Lodge, Ruto said the new initiative would also oversee changes to music and drama events in schools.
The Kenya National Talent Search will focus on identifying promising talent in music, creative arts, comedy and drama festivals, with the government seeking to establish a structured pathway for students to develop and advance their skills.
He said the Kenya National Talent Search would run throughout the year and across all parts of the country, broadening talent identification beyond conventional school competitions.
“The Government, working with the private sector, will therefore establish the Kenya National Talent Search to identify talent and innovation in music, comedy, acting, poetry, film, dance, sport, and other fields throughout the year and in every part of Kenya,” Ruto said.
The President directed the State Department for Youth to commence implementation of the programme immediately, working with his Creative Economy Office and receiving support from the Sports Fund.
He assigned Deputy President Kithure Kindiki the responsibility of coordinating the programme and ensuring it receives the necessary government backing as the national talent identification framework is established.
Ruto proposed ‘Kenya Beyond 2030’ as the inaugural theme of the talent search, tying the initiative to what he termed the country’s most pressing national priorities.
He further directed schools to adopt the theme for their creative events from next year, giving students an opportunity to use music, drama and other artistic works to envision Kenya’s future.
Ruto said he expected to personally honour winners of the inaugural Kenya National Talent Search at the next Kalasha International Film and TV Awards, linking the initiative to the country’s broader creative economy.
State House Recognition for Science and Engineering Winners
President Ruto also directed the Ministry of Education to establish an annual State House event for winners of the Kenya Science and Engineering Fair starting in 2027, saying the initiative would accelerate the recognition and adoption of students’ innovations.
“Effective next year, the Ministry of Education must bring the winners of the annual Kenya Science and Engineering Fair to State House,” he directed.
The President said the move would give national recognition to students who excel in science, technology and innovation competitions.
He noted that young innovators should receive the same level of recognition as students who distinguish themselves in music, drama and other creative disciplines.
