Hundreds of young Kenyans under the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) project have graduated from a 20-day Socio-Emotional Skills Development (SESD) programme, marking the beginning of a new phase focused on practical workplace experience.
The graduates drawn from 18 counties completed the training under Lots 5, 6 and 7 of the programme, according to Youth Affairs PS Fikirini Jacobs.
Lot 5 brought together beneficiaries from Marsabit, Isiolo, Turkana, Laikipia and Samburu, while Lot 6 covered West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi and Baringo counties.
Beneficiaries from Mombasa, Tana River, Lamu, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera formed Lot 7.
Following the completion of the SESD training, the graduates will now proceed to a five-month On-the-Job Experience (OJE) programme designed to expose them to practical skills in their areas of interest.
The placements will be undertaken under the supervision of approved employers and experienced Master Craftsmen. Through the programme, the youth are expected to gain hands-on technical skills, mentorship and workplace experience that could improve their prospects for employment and entrepreneurship.
Jacobs said the transition from classroom-based training to practical experience was an important milestone for the beneficiaries as they prepare to enter the labour market or pursue their own enterprises.
The PS linked the programme to the government's broader efforts to equip young people with skills and opportunities capable of supporting sustainable livelihoods.
The NYOTA project targets youth empowerment through skills development, employment opportunities, entrepreneurship support and access to financial services. Its implementation is part of the government's wider agenda to address youth unemployment and increase economic participation among young Kenyans.
Jacobs congratulated the graduates and urged them to make use of the experience and mentorship available during the OJE phase.
The programme's next stage is expected to give the beneficiaries an opportunity to translate the skills gained during the 20-day training into practical competencies while building professional networks and experience.
The graduates will also be expected to use the skills acquired to improve their employability and strengthen their capacity to pursue sustainable income-generating opportunities.