Youth told to tap skills, technology for self-employment

MWANZA: YOUTH have been urged to embrace practical training and technology-driven opportunities to acquire skills that can enable them to become self-employed and increase their income.

Inuka Hub Economic Empowerment Platform Chairman, Mr Ahmed Mahewa, said the initiative focuses on equipping young people with hands-on knowledge applicable in their daily lives.

He said the platform targets to reach more than 100,000 youth in Mwanza Region through its programmes.

Mr Mahewa explained that capacitybuilding sessions are held every last Sunday of the month, while practical training, covering product making, food processing and other activities is conducted every three months.

“The aim is to equip youth with practical skills so that they can create opportunities for themselves, instead of relying solely on employment,” he said.

He added that the platform also organises study tours to various projects, exhibitions and creative concerts to give youth opportunities to learn, showcase their talents and market their products.

Mr Mahewa insisted the importance of technology in expanding employment opportunities and supporting productive economic activities.

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“If you empower a young person, you empower the nation,” he said.

Entrepreneur Ms Monica Paul said entrepreneurship training helps youth understand how to start and grow their ventures.

She urged young people to participate actively in the programmes to build their knowledge and achieve their goals.

Another entrepreneur, Mr Julius Cheyo, called on youth to avoid idleness and instead seek knowledge and skills that will enable them to engage in productive activities.

He said acquiring diverse skills and developing self-employment initiatives can help youth tap into available opportunities in society.