The Kirinyaga County Government is stepping up efforts to equip young people with skills tailored for a rapidly evolving, technology-driven economy, with a strong focus on integrating digital competencies into agriculture and other emerging sectors.
The pioneer group of 60 youth graduated with certificates in computer-related studies accredited by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) at the Kirinyaga Agriculture Technical and Vocational Training Institute, marking a significant milestone in the county’s push to modernise agriculture through technology.
The graduates are expected to play a key role in enhancing agricultural activities, from farmer registration to efficient service delivery.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony held at Kamweti, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Livestock, Veterinary and Fisheries, Dr John Gachara, said the county deliberately prioritised digital literacy as a foundational course to prepare youth for the demands of modern agriculture.
“Digital literacy is critical for any course. That is why we started with it because agriculture today is technology-driven,” he said.
Dr Gachara noted that the County is embracing e-agriculture to enable farmers to access timely information through digital platforms, adding that plans are underway to expand training opportunities at the institution.
“As a county, we shall roll out more accredited courses in phases. This centre will also admit students from neighbouring counties to position it as a regional hub,” he added.
He further encouraged young people to enrol in training programmes, emphasising that education goes beyond employment and plays a vital role in personal and community development.
Karumandi Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA), Caroline Wanjiku, who attended the ceremony, confirmed that the graduates had received nationally recognised certificates.
She added that those who missed out in the initial intake will have an opportunity to join the next cohort.
The MCA also announced that Sh6.5 million has been allocated to support needy students in her Ward.
Institution Principal, Francis Wanyoike, described the graduation as the beginning of a broader academic and professional journey for the students.
He said the institution will continue supporting graduates to advance into agriculture-related programmes that incorporate digital technologies.
Wanyoike also highlighted that support from the County government, including budgetary allocations, has enhanced the institution’s ability to deliver quality training.
Some of the graduates expressed optimism about their future prospects. Shanelle Stacy said the course had equipped her with essential skills to support her academic progression, while Emmanuel Macharia noted that the programme had improved his computer literacy and opened up new opportunities.
“Today, the world does not favour someone who is computer illiterate,” Macharia said, urging fellow youth to take up similar courses.
The Institution also will offer additional accredited agriculture-based courses, including aquaculture, horticulture and dairy farming, from May. These programmes will provide a pathway for students to progress from short courses to diploma-level training, further strengthening the county’s agricultural value chain.
By Mutai Kipng’etich
