Likoni:Youths in Likoni sub-county, Mombasa, have been urged to leverage the digital revolution as a means to secure employment, generate income, and improve their livelihoods by acquiring skills for the burgeoning online economy.
According to Kenya News Agency, Samuel Ayacko, the State Department for Youth Affairs Mombasa County Regional Coordinator, emphasized the importance of digital skills for young people seeking economic opportunities. Speaking at Shikaadabu during the induction of the second cohort of the Free Computer Training Programme, Ayacko highlighted the program’s objective to equip youths with essential computer skills and prepare them for the Ajira Digital online work training program and other employment opportunities.
Ayacko encouraged the trainees to capitalize on the training to explore online work and other opportunities created by technological advancements. He noted the government’s goal to train over 4,000 youths in various courses to foster self-employment and job creation. However, he also challenged the youth to remain committed to these programs, pointing out that many do not complete what they start.
The Free Computer Training Programme aims to bridge the digital skills gap among young people by providing practical computer knowledge and preparing them for participation in the digital economy. The induction of Cohort Two at Shika Adabu gathered over 70 youths eager to develop their digital skills and position themselves for emerging opportunities in online work and employment.
Abdalla Muishe, an officer with the Ajira Digital Programme in the Coast region, remarked on Kenya’s large population of young people who primarily use the internet for entertainment but could leverage it to improve their livelihoods. The program creates awareness and trains youths on online work and various job opportunities available through digital platforms globally. It targets youths aged 18 to 35, equipping them with skills that meet international standards.
Meanwhile, Likoni Technical and Vocational Training College Registrar Titus Ceasar encouraged participants to register for the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program. This TVET initiative assesses and acknowledges skills acquired through work experience, informal training, and self-learning. Supported by Likoni Member of Parliament Mishi Mboko, the program has reserved 500 slots for Likoni youths.
Rehema Mohamed, a trainee, expressed that the program would benefit many youths in Likoni by helping them apply and develop existing skills. She urged the government to introduce more youth-focused projects and provide grants to help young people expand their businesses and create employment for others.
Another trainee, Joseph Ngatia, highlighted the program’s impact on enhancing his computer application skills and encouraged other youths to enroll in similar programs. He also called on the government to expand training opportunities to include courses such as beauty, masonry, and plumbing, catering to diverse interests and talents.
