By Wasike Elvis 

The President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Dr Erick Ruto, has called on parents, teachers and community leaders to invest more time in mentoring children from an early age, saying mentorship is one of the most effective tools for nurturing confident, disciplined and responsible future leaders.

Dr Ruto made the remarks during the 2026 Mumberes Mentorship Programme, an annual event that has become a cornerstone of educational and personal development in the region. The programme, now in its 18th year, brought together hundreds of learners, parents, teachers and community leaders from 13 comprehensive schools for a day of inspiration, guidance and empowerment.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Ruto emphasized that children need more than academic instruction to succeed in life. He said proper mentorship helps young learners develop positive attitudes, strong values and the resilience needed to overcome challenges in an increasingly complex world.

"Mentoring children in their early school years is essential for building confidence, discipline and a positive attitude toward learning. Through guidance from parents, teachers and role models, young learners develop good values, life skills and resilience, laying a strong foundation for future academic success and responsible citizenship," said Dr Ruto.

He noted that many successful professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders attribute their achievements to the influence of mentors who guided them during their formative years. According to him, children who receive consistent support and encouragement are more likely to stay focused on their education, make informed decisions and become productive members of society.

Dr Ruto further challenged parents to take a more active role in their children's development beyond providing basic needs. He said children thrive when they feel supported, listened to and guided by adults who genuinely care about their future.

"Every child carries immense potential. What many of them need is someone who believes in them, encourages them and helps them navigate the challenges they encounter as they grow. Mentorship gives children direction and confidence to pursue their dreams," he said.

The KNCCI President also highlighted the changing social environment facing young people today, noting that rapid technological advancement and exposure to social media have created both opportunities and risks. He urged parents, teachers and mentors to provide young learners with the knowledge and values necessary to make responsible choices.

The 2026 Mumberes Mentorship Programme featured motivational talks, interactive sessions and discussions focusing on leadership, education, career development, discipline, integrity and personal growth. Learners were encouraged to embrace hard work, remain focused on their studies and avoid negative influences that could derail their ambitions.

For many students, the event was more than just a gathering—it was an opportunity to interact with successful individuals who have overcome challenges and achieved their goals. Several learners described the mentorship sessions as inspiring and transformative, saying they left with renewed determination to excel academically and contribute positively to society.

Teachers who attended the event praised the initiative for complementing classroom learning. They noted that mentorship programmes help address issues that cannot always be covered within the academic curriculum, including self-esteem, emotional wellbeing, leadership and decision-making skills.

Parents also welcomed the programme, describing it as a valuable platform that strengthens collaboration between families, schools and the wider community in shaping children's futures.

Over the past 18 years, the Mumberes Mentorship Programme has grown steadily, touching the lives of thousands of learners across participating schools. Organisers say the programme was established to bridge the gap between academic learning and character development by exposing students to positive role models and practical life lessons.

The initiative has become a cherished annual tradition, bringing together stakeholders in education to share experiences, motivate learners and reinforce the importance of nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Speakers at the event unanimously agreed that mentorship remains one of the most powerful investments society can make in young people. They stressed that while academic excellence is important, values such as honesty, discipline, responsibility, perseverance and respect are equally critical in determining a child's success in life.

As the event concluded, participants expressed optimism that continued mentorship and guidance would help shape a generation of confident, ethical and innovative leaders capable of driving Kenya's social and economic transformation.

For Dr Ruto, the message was clear: building a better future begins with investing in children today. Through mentorship, guidance and positive role models, young learners can be empowered not only to achieve academic excellence but also to become responsible citizens who will contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation at large.