Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has unveiled a new county initiative focused on providing education and skills training to vulnerable families.
In a statement on Monday, Governor Sakaja announced that the Nairobi City County has collaborated with several local colleges to offer free short courses designed to equip residents with practical skills, thereby enhancing employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
“This initiative is an opportunity for everyone. If you are a resident of Nairobi from a vulnerable background, this could be your chance to learn a new trade,” Sakaja remarked.
County Executive for Talent, Skills Development, and Care, Brian Mulama, emphasized the importance of this initiative. He pointed out that it aims to uplift those who may not otherwise afford training, serving as a stepping stone to self-reliance and personal growth.
“Under Governor Sakaja’s leadership, we are committed to empowering our youth with essential skills,” Mulama stated. “There are hundreds of individuals who would love this opportunity but lack the funds—this is their moment.”
Mulama highlighted that Sakaja’s manifesto clearly focuses on creating opportunities, and this initiative is a key step toward fulfilling that promise.
Residents interested in the program can register online through the Social Services Department’s link at freeacademy.iyfkenya.org, as detailed by Social Services Chief Officer Boniface Nyamu.
Nyamu further explained that a range of courses is available, including catering, graphic design, electrical installation, plumbing, computer skills, carpentry, digital marketing, and beauty and hairdressing.
Registration for the program is open until Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 5 PM. Selected applicants will have the chance to receive training at various colleges across Nairobi.
Nyamu encouraged Nairobians to seize this opportunity to build a brighter future.
This initiative is part of Governor Sakaja’s “Dishi na County” program. So far, public schools in Nairobi are receiving timely food deliveries across all 17 subcounties.
Designed to provide affordable meals to students, the program has resulted in the establishment of 17 kitchens countywide, with seven completed just before the start of the third term.
With these kitchens operational, 152 public primary schools and Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers can now offer meals at an affordable rate of five shillings per meal.
Launched in June 2023, the Dishi na County Programme initially established 10 central kitchens, with the first meals served on August 28, 2023.
Additionally, over 5,000 workers under the Dishi na County initiative are employed across 12 strategically located kitchens in Nairobi, preparing and transporting meals to various schools, thereby creating job opportunities for residents.