The Ministry of State Labour and Skills Development has activated its skills inventory to streamline job placement both locally and internationally.
According to Principal Secretary Shadrack Mwadime, the ministry conducted a skills assessment in February this year in response to concerns from local entrepreneurs.
Mwadime highlighted that the inventory will particularly benefit young people seeking job opportunities abroad.
“We aimed to identify existing skills gaps to better prepare our youth for the job market,” he stated.
He emphasized that insights gained from this initiative will guide curriculum reforms to align with industry needs, ensuring graduates are more employable.
Speaking at the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) in Kisumu during a two-day National Job Fair, the PS underscored the government’s commitment to hosting such events nationwide.
These fairs aim to equip young people with career guidance and connect them with potential employers and job agencies.
“We are keen to address unemployment challenges by reaching out to our youth,” Mwadime remarked.
He noted significant job opportunities in Western European countries due to their aging populations, emphasizing the demand for both skilled and unskilled labor.
The PS announced plans for a bilateral agreement with Germany in September to expand job opportunities for Kenyan professionals.
He mentioned ongoing efforts to negotiate 19 bilateral labor agreements with Western European and Middle Eastern countries, highlighting Kenya’s reputation for highly skilled and disciplined young professionals.
“We are proud to promote Kenya’s skilled workforce internationally,” Mwadime concluded, emphasizing the ministry’s efforts to open up more avenues for employment abroad while addressing local unemployment issues.
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