Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering young people through expanded investment in education, technical training, and job creation, describing the country’s youth bulge as a critical driver of national transformation.
Speaking during a graduation ceremony for 1,880 youth in Kikuyu Constituency, Kiambu County, Prof. Kindiki said targeted interventions in education and employment are designed to equip young Kenyans with relevant skills while opening up income-generating opportunities.
“The Government is investing in education, skills development and employability of the youth, and increasing jobs and income opportunities to translate the youth bulge into a resource for national transformation,” he said.
The Deputy President noted that the education budget has risen significantly from KSh 500 billion in 2022 to KSh 765 billion for the 2026/27 financial year. He said the increased allocation has enabled major reforms and infrastructure expansion across the sector.
Among the key milestones cited were the employment of 100,000 additional teachers since 2022, the construction of 23,000 new classrooms, and the establishment of 1,600 new laboratories in schools nationwide.
In addition, policy reforms have led to a sharp rise in enrolment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions—from 297,000 in 2022 to over 718,000 currently—alongside the rollout of a new student-centred university funding model aimed at improving access and equity.
Prof. Kindiki outlined several government-led employment programmes that have collectively generated over one million opportunities for young people.
He said 550,000 jobs have been created under the Kazi kwa Ground programme through housing, market, and hostel construction projects. A further 540,000 jobs have been secured through the Kazi Majuu overseas placement initiative, while 300,000 digital jobs have been facilitated through 382 fully operational Jitume Labs and ICT hubs across the country.
“These initiatives are deliberately structured to ensure that young people are not only skilled but also connected to real economic opportunities,” he added.
The Deputy President was speaking at a graduation ceremony for 1,880 youth who completed vocational training in fields such as masonry, electronics, plumbing, hairdressing, catering, tiling, and coffee blending. The programme was supported by the Kikuyu National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Kikuyu Member of Parliament and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah said the initiative reflects a strong commitment to equipping youth with practical, job-ready skills.
“The graduation ceremony underscores our dedication to empowering young people through technical training and entrepreneurship. These graduands are now better prepared to enter the workforce or start their own enterprises,” he said.
The event brought together several leaders and stakeholders, including Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a, Gatundu North MP Elijah Njoroge Kururia, and Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, alongside Members of County Assembly and local residents.
Leaders present lauded the NG-CDF-supported programme for bridging the gap between education and employment, noting that technical skills training is key to addressing youth unemployment.
The government’s strategy, according to Prof. Kindiki, is to align education systems with labour market demands while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young people.
As Kenya continues to expand its investment in human capital, the focus on vocational training and digital opportunities is expected to play a central role in shaping a more inclusive and productive economy.
