The Kenyan government is prioritizing digital skills training to empower its youth for the future of work. This was the central message delivered by Cabinet Secretary Hon. William Kabogo during the Digital Youth Empowerment Programme at Belgut Technical Training Institute. He emphasized that equipping young people with these skills will enable them to secure employment from anywhere in the world.
The Cabinet Secretary commended Members of Parliament who are using National Government-Constituencies Development Fund NG-CDF to build digital hubs, stating that the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy will continue to equip these centers to help youth develop their innovative ideas. During a panel discussion, ICT Authority CEO Zilpher Owiti highlighted the progress made in deploying fiber optic cables and establishing digital hubs in Kericho County, urging entrepreneurs to take advantage of the free internet connectivity provided.
She also detailed several key initiatives from the ICT Authority, including the Smart Academy, Huduma Whitebox, the Presidential DigiTalent Programme, and E-Waste Management. These programs are designed to provide young Kenyans with digital skills, mentorship, and support to transform their ideas into viable digital jobs. According to Eng. Thomas Bwaley, Director of Programmes and Standards at the ICT Authority, the value of digital skills is not just in the knowledge itself but in the opportunities they create. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Belgut MP Hon. Nelson Koech and ICT Authority Board Directors, signaling a strong commitment to fostering a digitally skilled generation in Kenya.
