Youths have been encouraged to embrace digital platforms for self-employment and online jobs, as well as promote digital literacy to prevent cyberbullying and online abuse.
During a dinner in Kerugoya organized by British digital company Vector Markup Language (VML), which initiated free training programs aimed at equipping young individuals with essential digital skills for self-employment, the officials noted digital platforms as viable avenues for economic empowerment in response to the rising challenges of youth unemployment in Kenya.
During the training sessions, participants were taught to utilize various applications for online business, enabling them to advertise and sell products effectively as the government has provided internet access via various hotspots across the county.
Cyrus Njeru, a VML representative, emphasized their mission is to eradicate unemployment by mentoring youths across the country to embrace technology as a tool for economic development.
“We want to eliminate joblessness; through that phone instead of spending time and resources scrolling through social media you can use the same on valuable online jobs. Not everything online is a scam don’t conclude,” Njeru said
He added that technology has helped most people advertise their products online and they get many customers and even sell their products online, noting the program also addresses critical social issues by cautioning youth against the negative influences of social media.
“By promoting responsible use of digital platforms, the initiative aims to foster a generation that is both technologically savvy and socially responsible.”
Jane Gichobi, beneficiary of the program, said her over six months in digital marketing has made her more independent financially as well as introducing her siblings to online work, enabling them to earn while studying in different institutions. She encouraged parents to allow their children to enroll in training that will equip them with necessary skills to work online.
They also recognized the Kenyan government for its efforts in addressing youth unemployment through initiatives like the Jitume Hubs and Ajira digital.
By Mutai Kipngetich
