3,500 Youths in Garissa Trained in Skills for Employability and Community Service

3,500 Youths in Garissa Trained in Skills for Employability and Community Service.

A week-long program in Garissa County has equipped over 3,500 youths with essential character-building, skills development, and community service training.

The initiative, spearheaded by the President’s Award Kenya (PAK), targets individuals aged 14 to 24 from Junior Secondary Schools (JSS), secondary schools, training colleges, and universities.

Currently, the program has 138,000 young Kenyans enrolled, with a long-term goal of engaging one million youths within the next five years.

PAK’s project coordinator, Christine Chacha, emphasized that the program fosters leadership skills, encourages creative ideas, and amplifies the voices of young people to nurture a sense of belonging.

Participants are urged to pursue their chosen skills, engage in community service, and participate in sports to enhance physical fitness.

The program instills responsibility among youth, enabling them to generate income or enhance employability. Globally recognized certificates are awarded at three levels:

• Bronze: Entry-level certification.
• Silver: Intermediate certification.
• Gold: The highest level, personally awarded by the President.

Educational and Leadership Insights

Garissa Sub-County Education Director, Rashid Muktar, highlighted the challenges faced by young people in the region, including issues affecting their health, education, and overall well-being. He believes early mentorship through such programs is crucial for helping youths define and achieve their goals.

Muktar encouraged enrollment in technical colleges to gain practical skills that are vital for regional development projects. He noted the region’s informal sector is ripe with opportunities, but local youths hesitate to seize them due to negative perceptions about skill-based jobs.

Simon Irungu, a student at Garissa University, shared that the program has kept many young people occupied, reducing involvement in crime and drug abuse. It has also created avenues for them to give back to society through community service, fostering positive societal contributions.

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Muktar and other stakeholders urge the youth in the northeastern region to embrace technical courses and hands-on skills, which are critical for both individual and community growth.

Changing perceptions about informal sector jobs could unlock untapped potential and address unemployment challenges in the region.

This holistic approach equips youths with life skills, ensures community engagement, and opens avenues for economic independence, ensuring a brighter future for Garissa’s young population.

3,500 Youths in Garissa Trained in Skills for Employability and Community Service.

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