The Kenyan government is calling on young people to take advantage of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) program, which has officially opened applications for its first cycle. The initiative aims to empower youth engaged in business by providing essential skills training, business support, and promoting savings.
The five-year, World Bank-funded program is designed to tackle unemployment and enhance financial inclusion among vulnerable youth. It seeks to create systems that ensure long-term economic opportunities for young people who may otherwise struggle to access government programs.
According to a notice issued by NYOTA, eligible applicants must be Kenyan citizens aged 18-29 years, or up to 35 years for persons living with disabilities. Additionally, candidates should not have progressed beyond Form Four level of education, must possess a valid National Identity Card, and have a registered SIM card in their name. Furthermore, the eligibility criteria stipulate that applicants should either be unemployed, underemployed, or in low-tier employment.
However, individuals who have previously participated in the Kenya Youth Employment Opportunities Project (KYEOP) are not eligible to apply.
The NYOTA program offers a five-month apprenticeship that combines on-the-job training with mentorship from industry experts. Upon successful completion, participants will receive formal recognition of their skills through certifications such as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) from the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA). The initiative aims to place youth into formal employment or equip them with the skills necessary to thrive as independent artisans.
Applications for the program can be submitted via the USSD code *254#, by selecting the NYOTA project option. More details and inquiries can be accessed through their website at www.nyotaproject.go.ke. The deadline for applications is set for April 30, 2025.
Last year, former Youth Affairs CS Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the government’s commitment to championing policy reforms that put youth at the center of national development. He noted that the NYOTA Project aims to reach an estimated 810,000 vulnerable youth, particularly those at the lower economic and social levels.
Incumbent Youth Affairs CS Salim Mvurya has since reiterated the government’s commitment to the project, encouraging young people to apply and take advantage of the opportunities presented. “Youth are encouraged to apply,” he recently posted on his social media platforms.
