Nyamira: Nyamira County has celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of its first cohort of youths from the county's digital youth empowerment programme, spearheaded by Governor Amos Nyaribo. The initiative aims to equip young people with essential ICT skills to prepare them for technology-related job opportunities both locally and internationally.
According to Kenya News Agency, the graduation ceremony was held at Nyamira County Headquarters, with Governor Nyaribo in attendance. The governor emphasized that the empowerment programme aligns with his campaign manifesto, specifically agenda seven on youths and sports. He highlighted the programme's role in promoting digital literacy and fostering entrepreneurial startups, which are crucial for social and economic transformation within the community.
Governor Nyaribo noted that the skills acquired through the programme would help reduce poverty in Nyamira County, where the current poverty index stands at 7.6 percent. The goal is to decrease this figure to 3 percent by creating job opportunities for the youth. The digital hub, equipped with 32 workstations and high-speed internet, will train 30 students monthly, aiming for a total of 360 students annually.
The governor also assured the establishment of additional ICT hubs in the county's remaining four sub-counties to ensure widespread access to this transformative opportunity. He encouraged the youth to embrace the programme and enhance their professional skills.
ICT lead trainer Teresa Abuga, a lecturer from Kisii University, confirmed the comprehensive nature of the one-month training. She detailed the areas covered, including digital foundation, content writing, transcription, virtual assistance, web development, graphic design, and cyber security fundamentals. Abuga highlighted the relevance of these skills in today's digital economy, enabling participants to compete effectively in the job market.
Nyamira South Sub-county Deputy County Commissioner, Florence Obunga, urged the graduates to apply for NYOTA opportunities to acquire necessary equipment and software for accessing online job opportunities. Graduate Samuel Kirago expressed gratitude for the intense programme, emphasizing the value of the skills gained for self-employment and innovation in the competitive job market.
The ceremony was attended by key county officials, including County Secretary Dr. Jack Magara and several County Executive Committee Members, alongside the graduates' families and relatives.