NYOTA PROJECT MARKS SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF 20-DAY SESD TRAINING FOR OJE COMPONENT ACROSS 14 COUNTIES
Equipping Youth Beneficiaries with essential soft Skills for Workplace Success
The National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project has successfully completed a 20-day Socio-Emotional Skills Development (SESD) training across 14 counties, marking a key milestone that paves the way for beneficiaries to transition into apprenticeship and job placement.
The completion of the SESD training was marked with pomp and color across several counties as beneficiaries showcased their diverse talents and activities in vibrant ceremonies that culminated in a graduation. The graduation exercise spanned Lot 1 and Lot 2 counties, bringing together youth from Nakuru, Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Kisii, Homa Bay, Nyamira, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Kisumu, Vihiga, Siaya, and Migori.
Importantly, beneficiaries also participated in the Mr. and Miss SESD competition, where judges assessed their eloquence and understanding of the curriculum, as well as their knowledge of workplace behavior and teamwork. There was also a tree planting exercise observed across all the 14 counties as part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Speaking during the graduation exercise, Delvin Chepkoech, a beneficiary and winner of the Miss SESD competition in Litein, Kericho county, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity. Ms Delvin noted that training equipped her with all the relevant skills needed to not only get a job but also start and run her business. She further stated that she is eagerly looking forward to placement with master craftsmen to gain real, hands-on job experience. This testimony reflected the optimism and renewed confidence shared by many of the graduates.
“The training was so empowering, and the five-month course, once completed, our lives will never be the same. The training was very good, we got ideas on how to run businesses, on how to grow as a youth, and the importance of saving.” Ms Chepkemoi said.
Another beneficiary, Caleb Kiprono urged fellow youth in other counties to show out in large numbers and take advantage of the initiative, terming it a life-changing opportunity aimed to positively transform the lives of Kenyan youths.
“I urge my fellow youth in the other remaining counties not to miss any of the training sessions. This is more than learning; it is empowering our future lives.”
As the graduates move forward, they will be placed under experienced master craftsmen for a five-month apprenticeship, where they will gain practical, industry-relevant exposure. This transition marks a critical step in bridging the gap between training and employment, ensuring beneficiaries acquire tangible skills in real work environments.
OJE Lot 3 and 4
The induction exercise for OJE-SESD Lot 3 and 4 counties commenced on Monday, March 30, 2026, in Kitui, Kwale, Machakos, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Embu, Kirinyaga, Meru, Murang’a, Nyandarua, Nyeri and Tharaka Nithi.
Youth from diverse backgrounds, including young women and persons with disabilities, reported early and adhered to the schedule, demonstrating strong commitment and readiness to learn. The curriculum featured interactive sessions and practical engagements designed to build their confidence.
Visiting one of the induction centers on Tuesday, the NYOTA Project Manager, Mr Augustine Mayabi, commended participants for their dedication and urged them to stay consistent and fully leverage the opportunity to build skills and improve their livelihoods.
“This program will transform your lives. Ensure you attend all classes during the training. We will offer all the necessary support to ensure your training is a success,” Mr Mayabi said.
The Journey Ahead
Upon completion of the 20-day SESD training, beneficiaries will transition into a five-month apprenticeship under experienced master craftsmen to gain hands-on, industry-relevant skills.
At the end of the apprenticeship period, participants will undertake an assessment administered by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA). Successful candidates will receive certification recognizing their competencies and enhancing their employability prospects.
The OJE component is a flagship intervention under the NYOTA Project, targeting 90,000 youth across all 47 counties. Through partnerships with master craftsmen and employers, the programme ensures beneficiaries acquire practical, market-relevant skills that prepare them for employment or entrepreneurship.
The NYOTA Project remains dedicated to empowering youth across the country with the skills and opportunities needed to transform their lives and communities. All services under the NYOTA Project are freely accessed via the USSD CODE *254#.
