Kericho County’s total 1,789 adult and youth learners graduated from a six-week, government-sponsored Information Communication and Technology course. This course teaches them digital skills that will allow them to take advantage of various opportunities in the digital economy.
The Kenya ICT Training Programme was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT, Innovation and Youth Affairs, State department of Adult Education and Mt. Kenya University engaged the youth as well as adult learners for two hours every day during the last six week.
Speaking during a colourful graduation ceremony at Kericho Green Stadium, the Kenya ICT Training Programme Director Dr. Sammy Wambugu pointed out that the 1,789 graduands were drawn from Sub-Counties within Kericho County including, Bureti which had 613 students, Ainamoi 545, Kipkelion West 212, Kipkelion East, 372 and Belgut which had 47 students.
“Students of different ages went through the ICT courses and we are happy that they have gained skills that are very vital in today’s digital age. We still have classes on-going in Soin/Sigowet Sub County and once they are done with the course work, they will also graduate,” he said.
Dr. Wambugu was elated that the graduands were exposed to crucial market driven skills such as introduction to computer application programmes, Information Application Systems, Integration of ICT to E-government, and online jobs that would enable them start grow and manage their own businesses.
“The training was hands-on and involved acquisition of practical skills before examination and certification and so I can confirm that these graduands are now well equipped and ready to occupy and make an impact in the digital space,” added Dr. Wambugu.
The Youth Affairs South Rift regional coordinator Janet Ayusa read a statement on behalf Mr. Charles Sunkuli, Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs. It stated that the world has already entered the digital age and challenged the youth to embrace IT as the next frontier for development.
The Kericho County Governor Dr. Eric Mutai, who was the chief guest, congratulated the graduates and promised to set up ICT hubs throughout the County’s 30 electoral wards to promote the digital economy.
Dr. Mutai indicated that ICT hubs, fully equipped with computers, internet, and other technology, would serve as incubators for youth to nurture ICT-related innovations. He also said that cyberspace is loaded with opportunities, such as digital writing, transcription, and virtual assistant jobs.
“I however urge the youth gaining ICT knowledge to use the skills constructively and shut destructive practices such as pornography that are harmful to their well-being,” stressed Dr. Mutai.
Also gracing the function was Kericho County Director of Education Ms. Rose Sagara who appreciated all stakeholders who made this programme a success noting that the 60 hours foundational course in ICT has equipped the youth with the requisite skills in ICT to enable them thrive in ICT environments and tap into possibilities available.
By Kibe Moburu and Purity Emboyi
Source: kenyanews
