The premier youth skills and jobs event in Kenya, Skill Up Africa 2026, has officially kicked off today at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi. The two-day event will take place on July 15-16. Participants will receive free training at the event by various government organizations, employers, educators, and tech companies.
Organized in commemoration of World Youth Skills Day, the event will address issues of digital transformation, entrepreneurship, apprenticeship, and career development while providing an opportunity to connect with employers offering internships and jobs.
Here’s what participants should expect and how to register.
Free Training Programs Available
The fourth edition of Skill Up Africa is home to a wide variety of free training programs aimed at preparing Kenyan youth for the jobs of tomorrow in innovative sectors.
Training programs include:
Emerging Technology and ICT
Technological partner Huawei has provided technical training sessions revolving around digital skills and emerging technologies.
Attendees will have the chance to learn about:
- ICT
- Digital transformation
- Emerging technology trends
- Careers in technology
The training sessions aim to assist young professionals in developing relevant skills required in the industry today.
Apprenticeship and Career Preparation
Skill Up Africa is placing particular importance on employability through:
- Apprenticeship
- Creating a resume
- Career coaching
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The training session aims to bridge the gap between learning and employment by making attendees job-ready.
Entrepreneurship and Business Development
Aspiring entrepreneurs will find seminars that cover:
- Building and managing a business
- Business innovation and start-up creation
- Business incubation
- Joining entrepreneurship networks
Encouraging young innovators to try self-employment in addition to a traditional career path.
Participating Employers and Stakeholders
Skill Up Africa 2026 is being planned through a partnership between the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, the Ministry of Education, and Huawei, among others.
During this event, employers and recruiters will be expected to:
- Meet potential employees.
- Recruit talent for an internship.
- Undertake networking events.
- Facilitate mentorship programs.
Provide details on employment opportunities currently available, and those that will be available in the coming years.
This is an event that will allow young job seekers direct interaction with sector leaders.
How to Register for Skill Up Africa by Kenyan Youth
Attendance at Skill Up Africa 2026 will not cost any money.
The participants can register through the Nation Media Group Engagement portal.
Registration is highly recommended for easier entry.
Importance of Skill Up Africa
In the face of ongoing investments by the government of Kenya in the areas of youth employment and digital transformation, Skill Up Africa is one initiative that provides an opportunity for Kenyan youths to equip themselves with relevant skills and create their professional networks.
This is because the event will bring together various players, including government agencies, educational institutions, tech firms, and employers in one place to assist Kenya in its efforts towards increasing workforce readiness and fostering innovation-led entrepreneurship among young people.
For most participants, this will be a unique event in which they not only learn but can also secure internships, apprenticeships, and jobs through networking.
Conclusion
The Skill Up Africa 2026 offers a unique platform for Kenyan youths to acquire free skills training and career development, learn about entrepreneurship, and interact directly with potential employers. The event will take place at the KICC in Nairobi, Kenya, from July 15–16. Through this event, Kenya can showcase its efforts to prepare its youth for the future of work through partnerships between the government, industries, and educational institutions.
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