The National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) is forging partnerships with the private sector to provide practical skills training and job placement opportunities for young people throughout Kenya.
This is designed to equip youth
with skills that will effectively bridge the gap between education and
employment in the country.
NITA project coordinator Joseph
Kinuthia said that through the Kenya Youth Empowerment Project, they have
trained over 65,000 youth thus providing them with the competencies necessary to
either secure employment or launch their businesses.
“Our collaboration with the
private sector ensures that the training we offer is relevant and aligned with
the needs of industry,” he explained
Speaking at a graduation ceremony
held at the Nairobi College of Bread and Confectionery Technology, he noted
that over 400 young graduates celebrated their achievements, marking a
significant milestone in their journey toward sustainable employment.
This event highlighted the
successful outcomes of the training programs NITA and its partners offered.
CEO and Founder of the Nairobi
College of Bread and Confectionery Technology Joseph Ngumi, noted that the
baking industry is one of the best employers, and our graduates are
well-prepared to meet its demands.
“Our collaboration with NITA and
organizations like HKSI is essential for creating pathways to employment for
our graduates.”
Kinuthia indicated that NITA has
ambitious plans to expand its training programs across all 47 counties in
Kenya.
He noted that the goal is to train
an additional 90,000 youth over the next five years.
“This initiative aims to empower
Kenya’s youth, reduce unemployment rates, and contribute to the overall
economic development of the nation. By collaborating with the private sector,
NITA is ensuring that the skills taught are not only practical but also
directly applicable to the current job market. This alignment is critical in
helping young people transition smoothly from education to employment. The
partnership approach is expected to yield significant dividends, as it fosters
a more skilled workforce that meets the demands of various industries,”
Kinuthia noted
He further said that the impact of
such initiatives is already being felt, with many graduates entering the
workforce or starting their own businesses, thereby contributing to local
economies.
The founder of Hope for Kenya Slam
Adolescence Initiative (HKSI) Melvin Ouyo noted that they work alongside NITA
to empower vulnerable youth through education and skills training. This
collaboration is essential for creating pathways to employment, particularly in
sectors with high demand for skilled labour.
She expressed pride in the
resilience and determination displayed by the graduates.
“Today, we celebrate their
achievements and their journey from hopelessness to empowerment. Many of these
young people had lost faith in their futures, and now they are smiling and
ready to contribute to society,” she noted
Through these efforts, Kinuthia
said NITA and its partners are not just addressing the immediate needs of the
job market but are also investing in the future of Kenya.
“By equipping the youth with the
skills they need, the initiative aims to build a more resilient economy capable
of supporting its citizens in the long term,” he said.