(Busia) – The Busia County Government, in partnership with Stanbic Bank Foundation, has made a significant donation of 15 laptops aimed at promoting digital skills among the youth. This initiative is part of the Digital Skills Program, a broader effort by the Foundation to equip communities with skills that could open up employment opportunities in digital and digitally-enabled sectors.
The Digital Skills Program is designed to connect participants with job training and placement opportunities within the digital economy. With technology transforming many industries, the program emphasizes developing skills that align with current market demands and help reduce youth unemployment.
At the event, Beatrice Nakholi, the County Executive Committee member for Education and Industrial Skills Development, spoke on the importance of digital skills in today’s competitive job landscape. Nakholi pointed out that the donated laptops would be instrumental in preparing youth for digital-era challenges, potentially reducing unemployment rates by making young people more marketable.
“This equipment will play a crucial role in helping our youth acquire the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive world. This partnership will go a long way in ensuring that our young people are not left behind as the world moves towards digital innovation,” said Nakholi.
Adding to this, Edgar Karani, the Team Leader at Stanbic Bank’s Busia Branch, reiterated the need for digital training among the youth. Karani highlighted that the shift to digital practices across many industries means that young people without these skills could miss out on valuable employment opportunities.
“The world has gone digital, and it is vital for our youth to transition into this new era. Without these skills, they risk missing out on countless opportunities that could improve their livelihoods,” Karani emphasized.
In addition to the laptops, the Department of Education and Skills Development also distributed equipment for hairdressing and beauty therapy, acquired through the 2023–2024 fiscal year budget. The range of tools included adjustable barbering chairs, massage couches, shampooing chairs, blow-dry machines, hair mannequins, manicure tables, and sterilizing machines. These items will be allocated to various Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) across Busia.
| Equipment Distributed | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Laptops | Digital Skills Program for youth training |
| Barbering chairs | Hairdressing and beauty therapy training |
| Massage couches | Practical vocational training |
| Shampooing chairs | Salon skills development |
| Blow-dry machines | Hair styling and treatment skills |
| Hair mannequins | Practice for hairdressing techniques |
| Manicure tables | Manicure and nail care skills training |
| Sterilizing machines | Hygiene and sanitation practices in salons |