Safaricom Foundation Backs Youth Skills Training in Isiolo to Boost Employment Opportunities

The Safaricom Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment through technical training programs aimed at equipping young people with market-ready skills.

Speaking during a visit to the Uhuru TVET Centre, the Foundation’s Chairman Joseph Ogutu said technical and vocational education offers practical pathways to employment and entrepreneurship.

Ogutu, who was accompanied by James Lowasa, the Deputy Governor of Isiolo County, toured training sessions where youth are undergoing a three-month tailor-made program focused on technical skills such as motorcycle repair.

He emphasized that the skills acquired in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions go beyond classroom learning, noting that proper networking and hands-on experience enable graduates to deliver high-quality work and remain competitive in the job market.

“The technical skills learned in TVETs are more than just courses. With proper exposure and networking, these young people can become highly sought after and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” Ogutu said.

The initiative, supported by Catholic Relief Services (CRS), is part of broader efforts to address youth unemployment by providing practical training aligned with market demands.

Deputy Governor Lowasa noted that the program has already made a significant impact, benefiting at least 215 learners across Isiolo County since its launch last year.

“Youth without market-ready skills are often vulnerable. By sponsoring them to sharpen these skills, we are making them competitive for both employment and self-reliance,” Lowasa said.

He added that the county government is keen on strengthening partnerships with development organizations and private sector players to expand such initiatives and reach more young people.

Local leaders and stakeholders have welcomed the program, describing it as a critical intervention in tackling unemployment and promoting economic empowerment among youth.

The training initiative underscores the growing importance of TVET institutions in Kenya’s development agenda, as stakeholders increasingly recognize the role of technical skills in driving innovation, productivity, and sustainable livelihoods.