Kirinyaga: The Kirinyaga County Government is stepping up efforts to equip young people with skills tailored for a rapidly evolving, technology-driven economy, with a strong focus on integrating digital competencies into agriculture and other emerging sectors.
According to Kenya News Agency, the pioneer group of 60 youth graduated with certificates in computer-related studies accredited by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) at the Kirinyaga Agriculture Technical and Vocational Training Institute. This marks a significant milestone in the county’s push to modernize agriculture through technology. The graduates are expected to play a key role in enhancing agricultural activities, from farmer registration to efficient service delivery.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony held at Kamweti, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Livestock, Veterinary and Fisheries, Dr. John Gachara, emphasized the importance of digital literacy as foundational to preparing youth for the demands of modern agriculture. He noted that the county is embracing e-agriculture to enable farmers to access timely information through digital platforms and plans are underway to expand training opportunities at the institution.
‘As a county, we shall roll out more accredited courses in phases. This centre will also admit students from neighbouring counties to position it as a regional hub,’ added Dr. Gachara. He further encouraged young people to enrol in training programmes, underscoring the role of education in personal and community development beyond employment.
Karumandi Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA), Caroline Wanjiku, who attended the ceremony, confirmed that the graduates had received nationally recognized certificates. She announced that Sh6.5 million has been allocated to support needy students in her Ward and assured that those who missed the initial intake will have an opportunity to join the next cohort.
Institution Principal, Francis Wanyoike, described the graduation as the beginning of a broader academic and professional journey for the students. He affirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting graduates in advancing into agriculture-related programmes that incorporate digital technologies. Wanyoike also highlighted that support from the County government, including budgetary allocations, has enhanced the institution’s ability to deliver quality training.
Some of the graduates expressed optimism about their future prospects. Shanelle Stacy said the course had equipped her with essential skills to support her academic progression, while Emmanuel Macharia noted that the programme had improved his computer literacy and opened up new opportunities, urging fellow youth to take up similar courses.
The Institution will also offer additional accredited agriculture-based courses, including aquaculture, horticulture, and dairy farming, from May. These programmes will provide a pathway for students to progress from short courses to diploma-level training, further strengthening the county’s agricultural value chain.