By Remmy Butta
In a landmark event symbolizing hope and progress, Governor Stephen Sang recently presided over the graduation of 650 young Nandi residents empowered with life-changing skills, poised to transform their livelihoods and significantly boost the county’s economy.
The celebratory ceremony marked the successful culmination of training for two pivotal cohorts: 350 Graduates: use Trained under the KCB Foundation’s flagship “Tujiajiri Program” within Nandi County’s Vocational Training Centres and, 300 Graduates: Recruits passing out from the newly invigorated Nandi County Youth Service.
Governor Sang, addressing the graduates, dignitaries, and proud families, declared, “These young men and women standing before us today represent the vibrant promise of Nandi. They are now skilled, empowered, and ready to drive tangible transformation right from the grassroots level. This is not just about individual success; it’s about building a more resilient and prosperous county for all.”
The graduation served as a powerful testament to the strength and vision of the partnership between the County Government of Nandi and the KCB Foundation. Through the Tujiajiri Program, graduates gained practical, hands-on expertise in critical economic sectors vital for development, including masonry, carpentry, hairdressing, electrical installation, mechanical work, and various other technical trades.
“These are far more than just certificates,” emphasized Governor Sang. “They represent pathways to self-reliance, the seeds of entrepreneurship, and the foundation for greater economic resilience for our youth and their communities. Skills are the currency of the future, and today, 650 of our young people are richer for it.”
The Governor extended profound gratitude to the KCB Foundation, represented at the event by Joblin Omari, Head of Programs. “To the KCB Foundation, we express our deepest appreciation for your unwavering support, invaluable partnership, and crucial investment in the boundless potential of Nandi’s youth. Together, we are laying the essential groundwork for a self-sustaining and prosperous generation.”
Reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, Governor Sang outlined concrete future steps:
Scaling Partnerships: Expanding collaborations with institutions like KCB Foundation to increase training opportunities.
Institutionalizing Youth Service: Solidifying the Nandi County Youth Service as a permanent pillar for community-driven development.
Prioritizing Youth in Planning: Ensuring youth innovation and enterprise are central to county planning and budgeting processes.
In a significant move signaling continued momentum, Governor Sang, alongside Mr. Omari, members of the County Executive, and the County Assembly, officially launched the second cohort of the Tujiajiri Program immediately after the graduation. This launch underscores the shared commitment to significantly scale up skills development initiatives across Nandi County.
The atmosphere was charged with optimism as the graduates, clad in their ceremonial attire, received their certificates. Governor Sang concluded with a resounding message: “Congratulations to all 650 graduates! Go forth with confidence, apply your skills, create opportunities, become employers, and be the change agents Nandi needs. Your success is our county’s success. The future is bright, and it starts with you.”
