KENYA: Technical school graduates 321 youth prepared for workforce
Event marks official opening of newly built pavilion
KENYA
(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute, located in Nairobi, Kenya, awarded certificates to 321 youth who completed two years of rigorous training in trades, including carpentry, plumbing, tailoring, mechanics, computer science, and solar technology.
The two-year technical training provides youth with a wide variety of skills. After graduation, more than 80%of graduates are employed in their fields of study. Many students go on to attend university or establish their own businesses and become entrepreneurs in Nairobi.
After the Mass celebrated by Father George TJ, superior of the Salesian Province of East Africa, the participants attended cultural shows and speeches that highlighted the graduates. The event also marked the official opening and blessing of a newly built pavilion that hosted the ceremony.
In addition to the awarding of certificates, recognition was given to the students who participated in the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival, celebrating their involvement and contribution. The event attracted hundreds of participants, including parents, relatives, friends of graduates, benefactors and partners of the institution.
“At the institute, students have access to the training and support needed to thrive in the job market,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian education ensures youth are able to take the skills learned in the classroom and utilize them in real working environments, benefiting both the student and the employer.”
According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.
Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Salesian Missions – Kenya
World Bank – Kenya
