By Betty Luke
The government has called on the young generation to take advantage of available digital opportunities to stay engaged and for economic empowerment.
Key speakers at yesterday’s International Youth Day celebrations in Isiolo town noted that although there were fewer job opportunities in the formal sector, there existed numerous opportunities online which if seized would offer them income.
Administration Secretary at the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Alan Machari said there was a need for the young people to adequately exploit the opportunities.
“While we are aware that youths face numerous challenges, we urge them to take advantage of the avenues that are available to unleash the potential that is in them,” said Mr Machari.
He stressed the government’s commitment to empowering the young people through innovative programs and mentorship opportunities.
The official stressed on the need for the young people to be organized in groups so they can optimally benefit from government and non-governmental initiatives.
“Working together as a team will enable the young people to achieve more and better results than when they work individually,” he said.
The call was in tandem with this year’s theme ‘From Clicks to Progress:Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development’ which seeks to encourage digital innovation for sustainable development.
National Youth Council CEO Margaret Kiogora committed that the council was keen on ensuring voices from the youth were amplified to the national platforms.
Encouraging the youth to share their views on the expected restructuring of the council, she assured of their involvement throughout the process.
“You must go out of your way and grab the available opportunities because they will not come knocking at your doorstep,” she said, further calling for active youth participation on issues that affect them.
Isiolo County Youth and Education Executive Aileen Kajuju asked youths to shun drug and substance abuse to ensure proper physical and mental health and consequently participate in meaningful development.
Ms Kajuju noted the need for the young generation to enroll for various courses offered at local Technical and Vocational Centers to acquire skills for employment.
“Having a degree doesn’t bar someone from taking a technical course. Technical courses will not only give you a ready job but enable you to initiate your own ventures and eventually create job opportunities for other people,” she said.
Youth Leader Sadia Hassan Tache faulted the organizers of the event over failure to include People Living with Disabilities during preparations for the celebrations.
Also in attendance was Isiolo Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Musango and Regional Youth Coordinator George Mbogo.
The event marked the culmination of the National Youth Week’s county engagements.
