KISII: Kisii National Polytechnic is hosting a recruitment drive aimed at connecting skilled and unskilled Kenyan youth with employment opportunities in countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This initiative, part of a nationwide effort by the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, in collaboration with Bluewave International Services, seeks to address the high unemployment rates by facilitating labour mobility.
According to Kenya News Agency, Fridah Nyakerario, the Registrar of Kisii National Polytechnic, addressed the media during the event, emphasising the importance of this opportunity for the youth. She urged individuals with skills in steel fixing, scaffolding, masonry, carpentry, electronics, plumbing, and other hands-on trades to participate in the recruitment. Nyakerario highlighted that there is no limit to the number of recruits; as long as an individual possesses the requisite skills, they are encouraged to apply.
‘We encourage all youth to take advantage of this opportunity, especially during times when securing employment within the country is challenging,’ Nyakerario stated. She further clarified that the recruitment process is inclusive, extending to unskilled labourers who are willing to be trained. ‘Those without prior skills will not be locked out; they will be recruited and trained accordingly,’ she added.
The recruitment exercise, which commenced in December of last year, has been conducted across various counties, with the Gusii region’s turn taking place this week. The initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to supporting labour mobility as a strategic intervention to address youth unemployment and bridge skills gaps in destination countries. This effort also aligns with the broader goal of leveraging the potential of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates to meet global workforce demands, fostering economic growth through international employment opportunities.
Participants in the recruitment expressed optimism about the prospects of working abroad. Many believe that the employment opportunities will enable them to support their families and achieve financial independence. Bluewave International Services, a recruitment agency licensed by the National Employment Authority, is collaborating with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection to facilitate this process. The agency has a track record of connecting Kenyan workers with international employment opportunities, particularly in the Gulf region.
The recruitment drive at Kisii National Polytechnic is part of a broader nationwide effort to provide Kenyan youth with viable employment opportunities abroad, thereby addressing the challenges of unemployment and underemployment in the country.