Lugari: Over 200 youths from Chevaywa Ward in Lugari Constituency have benefitted from a one-day career development and life skills empowerment forum to enhance their capability to navigate through life. The forum, held at Nambilima Primary School, was organized by EcoRising Alliance and targeted youth currently in form four, form four leavers, and those already in tertiary institutions.
According to Kenya News Agency, EcoRising Alliance Chief Executive Officer Collins Lugongo emphasized the need for stakeholders to empower and steadfastly support young people for a better future. Despite the organization’s primary focus on environmental issues, it aims to connect nature and humanity, believing in their mutual existence.
Lugongo highlighted the success of this second edition of youth empowerment in Chevaywa, addressing gaps where rural students lack inspiration and career information. The forum aimed to bring youths together, equip them with essential skills, and raise awareness about the importance of mid-level college courses.
He also stressed the objective to increase the transition rate from secondary schools to tertiary institutions, transforming the community through knowledge. The forums are designed to engage, equip, and empower teenagers and young people for a brighter future and improved society.
Dr. Jaluo Murunga, a Psychology Lecturer at the University of Eldoret, encouraged school leavers who did not attain university entry grades to seek opportunities at Training Institutions and mid-level colleges. He dispelled the notion that university entry grades equate to success, advocating for the marketability of courses offered at technical and vocational colleges.
Murunga remarked that even students with lower mean grades can acquire skills and be valuable in the future, noting the competitiveness of technical college graduates in the job market.
Chevaywa Technical and Vocational College Deputy Principal Margret Mukulo and area Ward Administrator Mercy Mukopi praised the EcoRising Alliance for the forum, which they believe will guide form four leavers in making informed career choices. Nambilima Secondary School Head Boy Werunga Kevin described the forum as insightful, urging beneficiaries to appreciate its value.