Enhancing Youth Employability in Kenya: Amref Health Innovation and US Embassy in Kenya Join Forces

In a dynamic world driven by technology and rapid change, equipping young people with the necessary skills to thrive in the job market has become a priority. Recognizing this need, Amref Health Innovation, in collaboration with the US Embassy in Kenya, has taken a significant step towards empowering the youth through a comprehensive employability skills training program in selected counties in Kenya. With a focus on mental health, digital skills, creative and critical thinking, CV writing, communications skills, work-life balance, and teamwork, this initiative aims to unlock the potential of young Kenyans and pave the way for a brighter future.

Amref Health Innovation and the US Embassy in Kenya understand that mental health is fundamental to personal growth and professional success. The employability skills training programme has modules on mental health awareness, self-care practices, and stress management techniques. By addressing mental health challenges, the program fosters resilience, self-confidence, and emotional well-being among the youth. The training sessions were timely for the youth to gain the needed skills to navigate their personal and professional lives with a healthier mindset, ultimately enhancing their employability prospects.

To seamlessly navigate the digital landscape, proficiency in digital skills is crucial for career advancement. The youth employability training was live to this gap and integrated digital literacy into the programme. The participating youth acquired essential digital skills such as computer literacy and etiquette, cyber security, online communication, social media, and data analysis. By equipping young individuals with these digital competencies, the programme ensures that the youth are prepared to embrace technology-driven workplaces and leverage digital platforms for professional and personal growth.

Creative and critical thinking is key, especially in this era of technology and know-how, the programme was packaged to instil these essential skills through interactive discussions and practical exercises, participants developed their problem-solving skills, innovative mindset, and entrepreneurial spirit using the locally available resources. The programme encourages young individuals to think outside the box, challenge conventions, and generate innovative ideas. By fostering these skills, the initiative empowers youth to address societal challenges, contribute to economic growth, and thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.

Consequently, the training on CV writing was timely, presenting the best version of yourself through a well-crafted CV is a powerful way to secure employment opportunities. The programme onboarded experts in the field to offer comprehensive training on CV writing, helping the youth showcase their skills and experiences effectively. During this session, the speaker focused on structuring CVs, highlighting key achievements, and tailoring them to specific job roles. Through personalized guidance and feedback, the youth gained confidence in their ability to present themselves professionally, significantly improving their chances of securing employment.

Effective teamwork is an invaluable skill in today’s collaborative work environments. The employability skills training programme encouraged participants to work in teams, engaging in group projects, and team-building activities. By fostering collaboration, communication, and respect for diverse perspectives, the program equips young people with the skills to excel in team settings. The youth learnt how to leverage the strengths of their teammates, resolve problems and promote healthy collaboration for joint success.

The collaboration between Amref Health Innovation and the US Embassy in Kenya in delivering the youth employability skills training programme demonstrates a commitment to equipping young Kenyans with the tools they need to thrive in the modern job market. By addressing mental health, imparting digital skills, nurturing creative and critical thinking, enhancing CV writing abilities, promoting work-life balance, and fostering teamwork, this initiative is timely in empowering youth to unlock their potential and contribute meaningfully to the workforce. Through this partnership, Amref Health Innovation and the US Embassy in Kenya are paving the way for a generation of skilled and resilient individuals ready to shape a prosperous future.

Author – Noah Wekesa, Communications, Digital Lead, Amref HQ and Kenya