The President of the United Nations General Assembly, Philemon Yang, visited Equity Group for high-level discussions on youth innovation, digital technology, and sustainable development. Hosted by Equity Group’s Chairman, Prof. Isaac Macharia, alongside other Board members and senior managers, the meeting underscored the vital role of digital transformation in shaping the future workforce.
Yang, a former Prime Minister of Cameroon, reiterated his commitment to fostering a digitally skilled youth workforce, bridging the digital divide, and leveraging technology to address global development challenges. His visit included a tour of Equity’s technology and innovation hub, which serves as a training ground for young people under the Equity Leaders Programme.
Addressing the youth, Yang emphasized the importance of cultivating a positive mindset and harnessing imagination for success. “The efforts you make today are key to shaping your future. Cultivate a positive attitude it will help you become a strong negotiator and foster tolerance. Never discard your imagination. In many ways, your imagination defines you and will guide you to success. Equity has given you a platform, take advantage of it, learn, and use your skills to create meaningful change in the world around you,” he said.
The discussions also highlighted the crucial role of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and opening up opportunities for young people in the digital economy. Kenya’s Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, John Tanui, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to regional collaboration and digital empowerment.
“In partnership with the UN, government, and private sector, we are strengthening regional collaboration to unlock opportunities for young people, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need. We are proud of our partnership with Equity, particularly in the field of technology. We are truly impressed by the impactful work Equity is doing to empower young people through its technology hub in Tatu City,” Tanui stated.
Equity Group Chairman Prof. Macharia echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that investing in young people and providing them with the necessary tools to thrive in the digital era is fundamental for sustainable development.
The meeting was also attended by Zainab Hawa Bangura, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) and UN Under-Secretary, alongside representatives from UN agencies such as UNHCR, WFP, UNICEF, and UNDP, as well as senior members of the Kenyan government. The gathering underscored a shared commitment to harnessing technology as a catalyst for youth empowerment and global progress.
