The Cabinet
Secretary (CS) for Information, Communication and Technology, Joe Mucheru has challenged young people to be conscious of the digital revolution so as to seize the numerous opportunities it portends.
Mucheru said in this digital era, the youth are exposed to myriad of opportunities but few get such opportunities because many are not conscious about it.
The CS said in the modern technological revolution young people have no option but to constantly explore the digital space in order to remain relevant.
He said the government in the midst of a digital revolution is committed to initiatives that seek to give young people the tools to help them use technology to grow their confidence online.
“Whether you are looking for a new job or want to start your own business the impact of technology cannot be overlooked,” said Mucheru, adding that technology has interrupted almost every single aspect of life.
The CS was speaking on Thursday in Mombasa when he graced the Pwani Innovation Week, organized by ‘Swahilipot Hub’. He was accompanied by his Principal Secretary (PS), Jerome Ochieng and Susie Kitchens the Deputy British High Commissioner.
The ‘Swahilipot Hub’ is an initiative that seeks to foster and promote youth entrepreneurship and innovation in Mombasa, Kwale and Lamu counties.
The CS lauded the initiative, saying the innovation hub with free high-speed internet will help the youth in the region develop innovative ICT products and applications from conception, production and marketing.
The PS advised the youth to appreciate employment in the non-formal sectors to help reduce the unemployment situation in the country rather than running after non-existent white collar jobs.
Ochieng said the ICT Ministry was running ‘Ajira digital’ training programme which seeks to help young people get the required skills to secure jobs online.
He said the programme is an initiative that aims to introduce young people to online work and provide the tools, training and mentorship needed for them to work and earn descent income through online jobs.
“So my challenge to those who have already undergone the training across the country is to cherish those digital skills to get employment and grow your careers,” he said.
The envoy said they are committed to support projects that are geared to the creation socio-economic opportunities for young people, saying they are the ones who will lead Kenya into the future.
By Hussein Abdullahi
