Migori: Youth in Migori have been urged to join a community-based NGO institute to improve their lives rather than relying on political handouts. The call was made during the launch of the Goma Technical and Vocational Training Centre, located in the Oruba slum on the outskirts of Migori town. The Centre aims to empower youth who lack guardians to pay for their school fees.
According to Kenya News Agency, the founder, Mr. Samuel Ouru, who was once a street boy in Migori town, emphasized that the institution is a way of giving back to society. It particularly aims to help young people still on the streets, providing them with opportunities for a brighter future. Ouru highlighted the need to keep youth from idleness and criminal activities by equipping them with skills for self-employment.
The institution will focus on changing the lives of less privileged children in the Oruba-Ragana area, known for criminal activities. Ouru, also the founder of Sagoma Community Based Organisation (CBO), explained that the Centre will offer courses in fashion and design and Information Technology (IT) to equip youth with digital skills, facilitating job creation and employment.
Ouru stated that poverty eradication involves more than education; it requires changing youths' mindsets to help them realize their potential and talents. The Institute aims to offer economic skills to these youths, providing them with better life opportunities after school and helping them become self-employed.
The Centre encourages youth from Oruba and Migori town, regardless of their educational background, to join and gain real-life experience for economic empowerment. However, Ouru appeals to well-wishers for additional tailoring machines to train more youths.
Alice Abuna, a member of the Sagoma CBO, explained that the institution will benefit not only vulnerable youths but also anyone in the Oruba area seeking tailoring skills. She highlighted the approach of the election season, a period when youth are often exploited by politicians for political scores.
Grace Achieng, a form four leaver from Oruba, shared her experience joining the institution to gain meaningful education and practical skills in tailoring. She aspires to start her tailoring business, employ other youth, and support her family. Achieng's dedication has inspired her peers to join the institution for skills in tailoring, fashion, and design.
The institution also supports its students in securing employment to generate income and achieve self-employment in the future. Achieng encouraged her peers, including those who married early or dropped out of school, to join the institution, learn tailoring, and become their own bosses.