By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
NAIROBI, KENYA | OCTOBER 8, 2026
President William Ruto has emphasized the importance of turning practical skills into real economic opportunities, saying Kenya’s young people must be equipped to work, establish businesses and contribute to the country’s economic transformation.
Speaking during the first-ever Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) graduation ceremony at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto presided over the certification of 3,772 Kenyans whose skills were acquired through work experience, practical training and other forms of learning.
The graduates were certified by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) in areas including construction, electrical work, automotive and textile technology, leatherwork, hospitality, ICT and cosmetology, among others.
“These skilled young people have built Kenya even before Kenya recognised them. Today, the country recognises them,” President Ruto said.
The recognition comes as enrolment in Kenya’s technical colleges continues to grow, rising from 780,000 in 2022 to 1.3 million, reflecting the increasing focus on technical and practical skills.
Through the Kazi Majuu programme, the Government is also seeking to connect skilled Kenyans with legitimate employment opportunities abroad.
According to the President, 701,481 Kenyans have so far been facilitated to travel abroad for employment, with the Government targeting one million by December 2026.
“Tunategemea tutafika one million by December. Tutajikaza kabisa,” President Ruto said.
The RPL graduates are expected to be prioritised in accessing employment opportunities abroad, while programmes such as NYOTA will support young people pursuing entrepreneurship.
The Government is also encouraging skilled workers to use the Fundi Locator App to connect with customers and expand their access to opportunities.
The initiative seeks to create multiple pathways for young Kenyans to achieve economic independence—through employment at home, jobs abroad or entrepreneurship.
Congratulating the 3,772 graduates, the President reiterated the message behind the programme:
“Kazi Majuu, Kazi Iendelee. Mbele iko Sawa.”
