Turkana: The International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with the Power Learn Project (PLP) and the Turkana County Government, conducted a one-day digital skills training for youth drawn from both host and refugee communities in Turkana. The training aimed to equip young people with practical digital competencies to enhance employability, entrepreneurship, and participation in the expanding digital economy.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the opening session, Robert Loyelei, the Chief Officer for Sports and Vocational Training Education, highlighted the significance of the Refugee Act 2021 and the Government of Kenya’s Shirika Plan. These initiatives seek to integrate refugee and host communities for shared social and economic development. Loyelei encouraged the youth to seize opportunities provided through national and county government programmes, emphasizing peaceful coexistence, inclusion, and equal access to opportunity.
Participants were motivated to embrace digital literacy as a critical skill for today’s job market and future economic participation. The County Government reiterated its commitment to promoting decent work and innovation, creating an enabling environment where young people can thrive through skills development and access to opportunity. County leadership noted that initiatives such as the local content policy, as well as scholarship programmes including Equity and Elimu, continue to create pathways for both host and refugee youth to grow and succeed.
The training gathered over 50 participants and was graced by county government officials. Attendees included Stephen Eregae, Director of Vocational Education; Isaac Eregae, Director of ICT; Jeremiah Loyapan, Deputy Director of Vocational Training; and Abraham Chegem, Manager of Lodwar Vocational Training Centre.
