Safaricom Expands Youth Skills Programme to Prepare Students for Digital Economy

Safaricom has expanded its youth empowerment initiative by equipping students at Kiambu National Polytechnic with practical digital and entrepreneurial skills aimed at improving their readiness for the rapidly changing job market.

The two-day training programme introduced learners to opportunities in digital technology, agritech, entrepreneurship and other emerging industries, reflecting the growing demand for technology-driven skills in Kenya’s economy.

Through the Safaricom Hook Circle initiative, students participated in interactive workshops, mentorship sessions, career discussions and technology demonstrations designed to expose them to career paths beyond conventional employment.

Speaking during the programme, Safaricom Chief Consumer Business Officer, Fawzia Ali Kimanthi said closer collaboration between industry and educational institutions is essential in preparing young people for future careers.

“By bringing industry closer to learning institutions, we can help students better understand the opportunities available to them and the skills they need to pursue those opportunities, whether through employment, entrepreneurship or continued learning,” she said.

The training was delivered in collaboration with DigiFarm, Power Learn Project and other industry partners, who shared practical insights on digital learning, agritech innovation and the evolving skills employers increasingly require.

Additionally, participants also explored how technology is reshaping industries, creating new income-generating opportunities and enabling entrepreneurship, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and the digital economy.

The initiative forms part of the Safaricom Hook Circle programme, which was launched in 2023 to support young people through skills development, mentorship and career guidance. According to Safaricom, the programme has already reached more than one million young people across counties including Nairobi, Mombasa, Meru, Kakamega, Siaya and Nyeri.

Furthermore, Safaricom said it plans to continue expanding the programme to ensure more young Kenyans gain access to practical training and industry exposure needed to navigate an increasingly technology-driven labour market.

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