IYF Free Weekend Academy empowers Youth Talent for the Future Job Market as Season 7 Graduates
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development, emphasizing the need for a multidimensional approach that involves collaboration with various stakeholders. This includes NGOs, academia, and the private sector, as part of its “whole of society” strategy.
Speaking at the 7th graduation ceremony of the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) Free Weekend Academy, held at the institution’s headquarters along Thika Road, Emily Maina, Director of Youth Social Development at the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, underscored the importance of nurturing young talent.
“We recognize that Kenya is a youthful nation, with 75 percent of the population under the age of 35. This demographic has the potential to transform the country, which is why fostering a positive mindset is crucial,” she said.
Additionally ,Maina stated that the ministry is responsible for youth affairs and they greatly appreciate partnerships with organizations like IYF that share our vision for youth empowerment.
Making her remarks,Kiambu Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika, has encouraged the graduates to relentlessly pursue their aspirations.
More than 5,000 youths received certificates from the IYF Free Weekend Academy, which offers 29 diverse courses, including Plumbing, Beauty and Hairdressing, Catering, Camera Operations, Computer Packages and Fashion and Design.
Addressing the graduates, IYF Chairman Rev. Yohan Kim urged the youths to focus on cultivating a growth mindset rather than placing excessive importance on material wealth.
“I want to emphasize a key mindset. Many believe that having a lot of money, intelligence and education guarantees happiness. However, real success is built on the right mindset,” he remarked.
The IYF Weekend Academy has played a pivotal role in equipping underprivileged youth ,many of whom are high school graduates who lack financial resources to pursue further education with practical skills that enable them to become productive members of society.
The program, structured into three-month cohorts, not only imparts technical skills but also instills confidence and self-reliance in students, positioning them as valuable contributors to the economy.
Since its inception in 2007, the academy has trained and graduated over 60,000 young people, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to society.
The institution operates on a weekend-based schedule, allowing students to focus on one course per cohort. Outstanding graduates are awarded scholarships to advance their education at Mahanaim College, a key partner of IYF.
Season 8 IYF Free weekend Next Intake
The next intake for the IYF Free Weekend Academy is set to begin on February 22, 2025, at the IYF headquarters along Thika Road.
