Mwea: The National Youths Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme has achieved a remarkable 95 percent progression rate, with the majority of youths who participated in the initial training successfully advancing to the second phase of classroom-based instruction. The programme, which is being implemented across the country, continues to gain momentum as more young people embrace entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic empowerment.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSMEs Development, Wycliffe Oparanya, expressed satisfaction with the programme’s performance during a tour of a training centre in Mwea, Kirinyaga County. He noted that the high transition rate reflects growing interest and commitment among young people to acquire business skills and become self-reliant. ‘I have received reports about this programme, and I am pleased that 95 percent of the youth who undertook the initial training have shown readiness to proceed to the next level,’ said Oparanya.
He emphasized that the core objective of subsequent trainings is to further equip young people with practical business knowledge and entrepreneurial skills that will enable them to sustain and manage viable enterprises. Oparanya further underscored the importance of embracing business as a long-term solution to financial stability, noting that reliance on low-paying and often insecure jobs may not guarantee a prosperous future. He challenged the beneficiaries to take full advantage of the opportunity provided by the government and remain focused on their goals.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), Henry Rithaa, who accompanied the CS, called on participants to remain consistent in their business pursuits. He stressed that the success of the programme largely depends on the dedication of the beneficiaries. ‘The best contribution you can make as patriotic young Kenyans is to remain committed to your chosen business ventures. If you stay the course, not only will you improve your own livelihoods, but you will also contribute to the country’s economic development,’ said Rithaa.
He further encouraged the youth to utilize the financial and technical support provided through the programme responsibly, urging them to invest wisely and expand opportunities for others through job creation. ‘Let us make good use of the resources allocated to this initiative. Invest in yourselves and create opportunities for others, as envisioned by the President,’ he added. The leaders also reminded the participants of the importance of discipline and focus in all their undertakings, noting that these values are critical for long-term success in business.
