Tatu City, the 5,000-acre mixed-use Special Economic Zone in Kiambu County has welcomed 50 aspiring youths for free skills training at the Tatu City Training Academy

Launched in 2018, the programme provides members of the local community with essential job skills and opportunities for personal growth and so far has benefited over 500 participants equipping them with construction skills and placing more than 80 percent of the graduates in jobs at Tatu City.

Head of City Management and Development Control Company (DCC) at Tatu City, Perminas Marisi, said that the Academy is fulfilling its mission of empowering youth in the local community.

‘By equipping them with practical skills, we are not only empowering them but also contributing to the growth and development of the construction industry, he said

One of the highlights of the academy is its certification process where Graduates receive certificates validated by the National Industrial Training Authority, (NITA) enhancing their employability and career prospects.

‘These certified individuals are eligible for job placements within Tatu City and other companies specializing in the construction industry. The academy’s commitment to job placements provides a crucial pathway for graduates to contribute to the development of the broader community,’ Marisa said.

In collaboration with ArcSkills, a professional development agency in Kenya, the programme offers a comprehensive curriculum spanning 8 to 12 weeks which focuses on providing highly relevant courses tailored to the construction industry, including electrical work, plumbing, painting, steel-fixing, masonry, plasterwork, tiling, and Environment, Health and Safety practices.

Peter Kimurwa, CEO of ArcSkills said they were excited to continue partnering with Tatu City Training Academy.

‘Our training modules equip youth with industry-relevant skills and knowledge, ultimately bridging the gap between education and employment, transforming their lives, and fostering sustainable economic growth. We look forward to witnessing the achievements of the latest cohort at Tatu City Training Academy,’ Kimurwa said.

Tatu City’s comprehensive community partnerships also include a school meals programme that provides high-nutrition daily meals to 2,000 children in state primary schools in and around Tatu City and so far, has provided more than 1.2 million meals.

Tatu City is Kenya’s first operational Special Economic Zone (SEZ) owned and developed by Rendeavour, one of the largest new city and industrial park builders in Africa. It is one of the largest construction projects in East Africa and a regional hub for businesses, homes, education, and recreation within a 5,000-acre infrastructure.

Source: Kenya News Agency