Juja Youth Get Hands-On to Stay Off Drugs and Crime During Holidays
0
0
By John Kariuki
Juja, Kiambu County – A holiday programme by Jamii Technical Training Institute in Witeithie is transforming lives by equipping young learners with hands-on skills to keep them away from drugs, crime, and harmful behaviours.
The initiative, which teaches khaki product making, branding, and marketing, aims to empower school-going children—especially those from low-income families—with practical, income-generating skills. Learners are taught how to make packaging materials such as sugar and flour bags, book covers, and gift bags.
Director Charles Kimani said the programme addresses growing concerns over youth idleness and rising petty crime in peri-urban areas.
“Engaging young people in productive activities is the best way to fight crime and protect them from vices,” he said.
The programme also provides a safe space for girls, shielding them from early pregnancies and exploitation. Kimani emphasized that it complements the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) by fostering life skills and environmental conservation through recycling.
Lucy Wanjiru, a Form Two student at Gachororo Secondary School, called the training “a noble opportunity.” Fellow participant Samuel Njenga added, “With the right skills, you can start your own business.”
The free programme, now gaining traction, is credited with changing lives. Beneficiaries like Teresia Wairimu and Mary Wanjiru said it has helped them begin supporting their families after long periods of joblessness.
Kimani has urged the Ministry of Education to integrate such courses into the CBC and encouraged parents to enroll their children during school breaks.
“This is how we secure our future,” he concluded
About The Author
