Acquire technical skills to make you self-reliant, young people told

Students from Garissa University and NEP Technical Institute at the forum. /STEPHEN ASTARIKO.

Young people across the country have been urged to acquire technical skills in order to thrive in an increasingly competitive and fast-evolving job market.

The call came during a youth entrepreneurship summit held at Garissa University. It brought together youth leaders, entrepreneurs, representatives from training and vocational institutes, and university students.

Speakers at the forum emphasised the need for young people to equip themselves with technical skills, noting that such skills can enable them to start their own businesses rather than rely solely on limited formal employment opportunities.

They also emphasised the importance of shifting the mindset of young people away from the traditional preference for white-collar jobs.

With formal employment opportunities dwindling, technical skills offer a faster route to self-employment while also creating jobs for others.

Abdikadir Aden, founder of Garissa One Million Trees, called on the government to complement financial support programmes with training that equips young people with the expertise to initiate business ventures.

He lamented that universities continue to churn out thousands of graduates who lack the basic skills needed to take advantage of job opportunities.

“We have so many graduates, especially from universities and tertiary institutions, coming out every year, but most of them do not have the skills or capacity to do anything even if opportunities are available,” Aden said.

He called for a holistic change of the mindset of young people while equipping them with basic life skills.

"Right now, there is a shift in technology—artificial intelligence, machines, and drones are taking over—and we need the right skills to remain marketable," Aden said.

He also commended the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, saying it moves away from an exam-centred approach and allows learners to pursue their passions.

Aden noted that this shift will not only help bring out the best in every child but will also contribute to the country’s economic growth.

“Our education system was initially set up in a way that focused solely on passing exams. After that, students were often unprepared for the outside world. Now, with CBE, young people have the opportunity to pursue their passions, whether in arts, sciences, or technology,” he said.

Carilus Chava, a former student at Garissa University, praised the summit, noting that it had broadened his perspective.

He said the skills and knowledge gained at the forum would help him navigate the world of business and entrepreneurship.

“I leave this forum an educated young man, more aware of how the world works. I have learned how to develop entrepreneurial skills and put them into practice, as well as explore other avenues,” he said.

Damian Dakane, a Garissa-based human rights activist, challenged young people to adopt a complete shift in mindset. She argued that too many youths are focus on chasing money instead of investing in skills with long-term returns.

“As young people, we are quick to chase money, but we should pause and ask ourselves: what can I pursue that will ultimately make me financially secure? We need to teach young people to focus on gaining access to the skills and resources that money alone cannot buy,” she said.

The summit provided a platform for young people to interact, network, and share opportunities and challenges within the entrepreneurship sector, fostering collaboration and practical learning.

Abdikadir Aden, the founder of Garissa One Million Trees  /STEPHEN ASTARIKO.