Young scholars have invested an estimated 4.5 million hours in community service in the past four years, the President’s Award-Kenya (PA-K) office has revealed.
Established in 1966, the programme has graduated more than 500,000 participants over the decades.
On Sunday, at State House, Nairobi, PA-K honoured over 2,000 young Kenyans who had completed the programme at the Gold level.
“This marks a significant milestone in youth development and community service,” President William Ruto said.
PA-K ranks first in the Africa region and second globally for participation levels and impact in society, said the programme’s acting CEO Maria Birgen.
Job skills
Globally, more than one million young people are striving to achieve their Bronze, Silver, or Gold awards in more than 140 countries and territories.
“As young people navigate mental health and other life challenges, access to opportunities for personal development beyond the classroom, like the President’s Award, are vital to help them discover new talents and passions, build their resilience and self-belief, and give them skills employers value – like teamwork, problem-solving and leadership,” said Birgen.
The ceremony also recognised 13 alumni award holders and life members, many of whom continue to support the programme’s growth and development across the country.
PA-K called for greater support from school administrators to expand the programme’s reach and impact.
The organisation also emphasised that the programme is open to all young people, whether in an institution or not, describing it as a “life-changing” experience.