In the contemporary interconnected world, the ability to communicate across borders is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
For young people in Narok and across Kenya, equipping themselves with the right skills can open doors to countless opportunities, especially abroad.
One powerful example of this is the ongoing initiative to offer German language courses in Narok, aimed at preparing young people for international job markets, particularly in Europe.
Zenah Chepkemoi has been teaching German at the International Institute of Foreign Studies and Hospitality Management in Narok for the last three years.
According to Chepkemoi, learning German is a good way to unlock great potential in young people, as it will create opportunities to work in European countries.
“This is more than just learning a language. It’s about unlocking potential, creating pathways, and building futures,” she said.
With a growing demand for skilled workers in countries like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, mastering the German language significantly increases the chances of securing employment abroad in sectors like healthcare, engineering, hospitality and beyond.
In Kenya, migration is often viewed with mixed feelings, but the reality is that many young people aspire to seek better lives and career prospects elsewhere.
Learning foreign languages and other relevant skills builds the confidence and capability of job seekers around the globe.
Chepkemoi reiterated the initiative is not just a project but a mission to change lives, as the German language does not only prepare them for jobs but also offers a successful, dignified and self-reliant future.
Faida Nyamu, a trained nurse, joined the institute to study German because she wishes to live and work in Germany.
Despite facing financial constraints and balancing her family core with her studies, Nyamu has remained focused and wishes that one day she will speak fluent German that will give her an opportunity to live in the foreign country.
“The foreign language is a bit difficult to learn, but I am determined that with time, I will speak fluent German that will give me an upper hand to live and work there,” she reiterated.
The institute’s Public Relations and Communication Director Alex Sikawa, asked the Maa community to take advantage of the institution to advance their careers.
Sikawa noted that a number of students who have successfully completed the foreign language studies are currently working in Germany.
“We have links for people who want to study German. We welcome young professionals and those who have attained over C+ (plus) in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) to register to join the institution,” added Sikawa.
In 2024, Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Kenyan President William Ruto said the two countries will collaborate to facilitate labour migration from Kenya to Germany.
The agreement offered a legal, structured, and dignified pathway for Kenyan youth to access employment opportunities in Europe.
The agreement came as a solution to prioritized human life, dignity, and the potential of young Africans, as they are now guided through a safe, official channel that not only respects their rights but also equips them with the skills they need to thrive abroad.
Kenya was among the first African nations to take such a bold and proactive approach and the deal did not specify the number of workers to be allowed in.
Both governments support the immigration of skilled workers who have completed vocational training or earned a university degree, as long as their qualifications are recognized by the relevant authorities of the other party.
By Ann Salaton
