NAIROBI, Kenya- The M-PESA Foundation has partnered with the University of Embu to roll out a comprehensive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarship program.
The initiative is expected to benefit over 1,300 young people across the country, providing them with valuable skills to navigate the job market.
The scholarship targets youth aged between 15 and 30, with an initial recruitment of 400 beneficiaries from 10 counties, including Embu, Meru, Nairobi, and Nakuru, among others.
Interested applicants can access forms through the University of Embu website or at Safaricom shops within the targeted counties, with a submission deadline of October 7, 2024.
The TVET scholarships will cover all training costs, including program fees, as well as a monthly stipend for accommodation and upkeep.
This ensures that financial barriers won’t prevent students from accessing high-quality education. Participants will have the opportunity to pursue various certificates, diplomas, and craft courses tailored to meet market demands, including specialties such as cosmetology, building and construction, electrical installation, and mobile repair.
According to Professor David Mugendi, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Embu, the program is geared toward equipping youth with “foundational skills that drive industries, boost productivity, and create pathways to meaningful employment.”
These programs aim to provide practical, market-ready skills that can immediately translate into job opportunities, which is especially important in Kenya’s evolving economy.
In addition to the scholarship program, M-PESA Foundation broke ground on a major project to establish a TVET Centre of Excellence at the University of Embu.
The centre will feature facilities for a range of technical skills, from phone and computer repairs to automotive workshops.
A Black Soldier Fly farming initiative will also be part of the development, highlighting the importance of sustainable and innovative practices in modern vocational training.
Nicholas Kamunyu, Safaricom Foundation Trustee, noted that the partnership with the University of Embu underscores the importance of providing access to quality education.
“We need to provide access to education and comprehensive training that will empower our youth to access opportunities for economic empowerment,” he said during the launch.
