Principal Secretary (PS) Roseline Njogu of the Diaspora Affairs Ministry emphasized the importance of leveraging both local and international opportunities. Speaking as the Chief Guest at the Ujuzi Mashinani inaugural graduation ceremony held at the Madaraka Primary School Grounds in Buuri Constituency, Meru County, PS Njogu underlined the critical role that skill development and international exposure play in shaping the future of Kenya’s youth.
The Ujuzi Mashinani graduation ceremony, organized by area Member of Parliament Mugambi Rindikiri, brought together students from five Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions within Buuri Sub-County. The event celebrated the achievements of hundreds of graduates who have been equipped with essential skills and resources to foster their entrepreneurial and professional growth.
PS Njogu praised the initiative for its commitment to enhancing the skills and capabilities of Kenyan youth, highlighting the importance of aligning training programs with current and future job market demands. She stressed that the government is dedicated to creating a supportive environment that not only prepares young people for local job opportunities but also positions them advantageously in the global labor market.
“Empowering our youth with relevant skills and knowledge is not just a national priority but a global necessity,” PS Njogu said. “Our aim is to ensure that Kenyan youth are well-prepared to take advantage of opportunities both within our borders and internationally. We must foster partnerships and collaborative efforts to achieve this goal.”
The PS elaborated on the role of her Ministry in facilitating this process, explaining that her department is focused on creating sound policies that support skill development and knowledge transfer. She also highlighted the significance of the Kazi Majuu programme, which aims to connect Kenyan youth with employment opportunities abroad, thereby enhancing their professional prospects and contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
In her address, PS Njogu also addressed the broader mandate of her Ministry, which includes protecting, facilitating, and regulating initiatives that benefit the youth. She emphasized that the government’s role is not limited to policy-making but extends to practical support in skill development and job placement.
The graduation ceremony was attended by representatives from various organizations, including the Hustler Fund, Uwezo Fund, and the National Construction Authority (NCA), all of which have played a crucial role in supporting youth empowerment initiatives. These organizations provided valuable resources and information to the graduates, aiding their transition from training to practical application in the workforce.
Member of Parliament Mugambi Rindikiri expressed his gratitude for the support received from these organizations and highlighted the positive impact of the Ujuzi Mashinani program. “Today’s ceremony is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together to support our youth,” Rindikiri said. “The skills and resources provided through this program will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of our young people.”
The event also featured presentations and exhibitions from various TVET institutions, showcasing the diverse skills and talents of the graduates. The emphasis on practical skills and entrepreneurial training reflects a growing recognition of the need to equip young people with tools that will enable them to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market.
PS Njogu’s remarks and the graduation ceremony underscore a crucial moment for Kenya’s youth, marking a step forward in the ongoing effort to align education and training with real-world demands. As the country navigates the complexities of a globalized economy, initiatives like Ujuzi Mashinani play a pivotal role in preparing young Kenyans to seize opportunities and contribute to the nation’s prosperity.
In conclusion, the Ujuzi Mashinani graduation ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the graduates but also highlighted the broader vision of empowering Kenya’s youth through skill development and international engagement. With continued support and collaboration from various stakeholders, Kenya’s young people are poised to make significant strides in both the local and global arenas.
