State seeks to boost industrial training of youth

 Dr Nahashon Moitaleel, Secretary of National Productivity and Competitiveness presents a certificate to Sheila Awuor as  Manoj K Shah, Chairman Osho Chemical Ltd and Nisheel Shah, CEO Osho Chemical Ltd look on. [Brian Otieno, Standard]

The government is exploring partnerships with private entities to bolster the industrial training of young Kenyans to enhance their readiness for the job market. 

Labour and Social Protection Principal Secretary Shadrack Mwadime hailed such collaborations as the "driver of progress and prosperity, in bringing together diverse perspectives and resources." 

In a speech delivered by National Productivity and Competitiveness Centre Secretary Nahashon Moitaleel, the PS urged industry players to enhance their involvement in the national training scheme regulated by the National Industrial Training Authority (Nita).

"Nita plays a crucial role in Industrial training and skills development in all integral components stimulating Kenya's economic growth and the realisation of a competitive human capital, along other investments for productivity and growth," said Dr Moitaleel.

He spoke during the graduation ceremony of industrial trainees of Osho Chemical Ltd, a leading supplier of agricultural input, in Nairobi.

Sixty-six machine operators and 14 other professionals graduated from the National Industrial Training Schemes of Indentured Learnership and Graduate Apprenticeship training that kicked off in September 2022.

Osho founder and chairperson Manoj K Shah challenged the graduands to be bold and innovative using their newfound expertise to drive change and seek opportunities to mentor and support others.

"The knowledge and skills you have gained over the past year are not just tools for your careers but foundations upon which you can build your dreams," he said.

Osho CEO Nisheel Shah expressed confidence that the graduating class had the relevant skills to make a mark in the Kenyan job market, announcing that 11 were absorbed by Osho.

"Collaboration and mutual respect are at the heart of our operations. We believe in the power if working together as equals towards a common goal," said Nisheel.

Nita Director General Theresa Wasike lauded Osho for participating in their programme, assuring other interested partners of Nita's support.