This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
Engaging the Youth in Productive Endeavours ¶
Kenya's 2020/2021 national Budget was themed on livelihoods, jobs, businesses and industrial recovery. However, the Sh10 billion allocated to the 'Kazi Mtaani Programme' has raised concerns about the kind of jobs being created for the youth.
The programme's main objective is to improve cleanliness of markets and informal settlements, water drainage, and conduct fumigation. While this may create jobs for the youth, it is essential to consider whether these jobs will have a significant impact on the community and leave the youth with valuable skills.
Instead of merely keeping the youth busy, it is crucial to design well-thought-out programmes that will make them better equipped for their future. This can be achieved by engaging them in ventures that require certain know-how, such as training them on financial management and entrepreneurship.
As Wycliffe Osabwa, Alupe University College, Busia, suggests, involving the youth in decisions that concern the activities they can engage in will unlock their creativity and potential. By doing so, we can create a more productive and law-abiding youth population.
It is time to rethink our approach to engaging the youth and focus on creating meaningful and productive endeavours that will benefit both the youth and the community.
