Kenya has a very young population, with approximately 80% of people here aged 35 and under. Youth unemployment here is very high – at 67%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Self Help Africa and Designer Group are working to change this, partnering on a project aimed at increasing informal and self-employment opportunities for young people in Kisumu County through training on technical skills. Courses include welding, electrical installation and motor vehicle mechanics.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIn the first phase of the project, we enrolled 26 students at The Kisumu National Polytechnic (TKNP) and 4 at Ramogi Institute of Advanced technology (RIAT)\u201d says project co-ordinator, Cynthia Awino, adding that 15 more will be added in the second phase, attending the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most of the programme\u2019s participants come from families with parents who cannot afford to send their children to college. Kevin Tzzadi Mttaki from Kondele, took a course in electrical installation. \u201cI am now offering electrical services to the community. I have three apprentices I am training. Self Help Africa and Designer Group have brought some light into my life.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n