In a commendable initiative aimed at fostering education and professional development among the youth, Kakuzi, a leading agribusiness firm, has made significant strides in supporting the Murang’a County University Bursary Fund. The company recently pledged a corporate donation of Kshs 2 million and committed to providing paid pre-university internship opportunities for bright and needy students upon completing their secondary school education.
The announcement was made during a formal event held at Mumbi Grounds in Murang’a Town, where the Bursary Fund was officially launched and its first cohort was commissioned. Kakuzi’s Executive Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Simon Odhiambo, expressed the company’s dedication to nurturing the potential of youth in the region. He stated that the agribusiness firm will coordinate with the Bursary Fund to create leadership development slots for students from the seven sub-counties of Murang’a, including Kiharu, Maragua, Kigumo, Kangema, Kandara, Gatanga, and Mathioya.
“We are committing to work closely with the Murang’a County University Bursary Fund to sustainably provide leadership development opportunities for needy but bright students. Beyond the cash donation, we will also provide fully paid pre-university internships that can help prepare the best students for wide job opportunities while equipping them for their university studies,” said Odhiambo. This initiative aligns with Kakuzi’s mission to create a positive impact in the communities where they operate, particularly in the realm of education.
The Kakuzi Pre-University Internship Programme is designed to absorb 20 students annually, allowing them to gain invaluable on-the-job experience in various disciplines. The internships will offer insights into Management and Supervisory levels across multiple fields, including Finance, Legal, Agronomy, Human Resource Management, Agricultural Engineering, and Marketing and Communications. This exposure aims to ignite curiosity and enthusiasm among students about the diverse career opportunities within the agribusiness sector.
Murang’a Governor Dr. Irungu Kang’ata, who attended the event, praised Kakuzi’s contribution as a significant boost to the county government’s efforts to facilitate access to university education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. He highlighted the importance of such partnerships in empowering the youth and creating a pathway to future success. “Kakuzi’s support opens doors for students drawn from poor and vulnerable households, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their educational aspirations and secure a brighter future,” he remarked.
The collaboration between Kakuzi and the Murang’a County University Bursary Fund exemplifies a commitment to not only academic excellence but also to the holistic development of students. By integrating practical work experience with academic learning, Kakuzi aims to prepare students for the complexities of the job market while fostering a skilled workforce that can contribute to the region’s economic growth.
As the first cohort of the Bursary Fund embarks on their academic journey, the partnerships and support from organizations like Kakuzi signal a promising future for many students in Murang’a County. The initiative not only provides financial assistance but also prepares students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring that they are equipped to thrive in their chosen fields.
In conclusion, Kakuzi’s proactive approach to supporting education and professional development is a vital step toward building a brighter future for the youth in Murang’a. By investing in their potential, the agribusiness firm is not just creating a workforce for the future but is also playing a crucial role in transforming lives and uplifting communities. As these students prepare to step into their internships and eventually their university studies, the support from Kakuzi will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on their lives and careers.
