Shun online hate speech, Samboja tells youths
By Reuben Mwambingu, January 13, 2021
Reuben Mwambingu @reubenmwambingu
Taita Taveta Governor Granton Samboja has appealed to the youth to shun the culture of using social media to spread false news and hate messages.
Instead, Samboja urged youngsters to use their access to the digital space to create gainful employment and earn a living online.
He was speaking during the commissioning of a computer laboratoty at Kidaya Ngerenyi Vocational Training Centre (VTC) in Wusi-Kishamba Ward. The lab seeks to increase digital literacy and employability amongst locals.
In attendance were Bura Ward Patel Mung’ambwa, his Nominated counterpart Jackson Mwagharo, Chief of Staff Rachel Dawai and the Governor’s Advisor Priscilla Mwangeka, among other county officials.
County boss said the digital world has made job opportunities available since the contemporary world is shifting to the digital workplaces.
“With the world becoming a global village, employers favour those who can apply these skills in a bid to add value and provide solutions to various entities. Further, digital innovative ideas can help you earn money online,” he advised.
He called on the County Executive Committee Member for Education, Libraries and VTCs Daniel Makoko to fast track the process of securing a title deed for the institution.
Samboja pledged Sh180,000 in registration fees for 60 youths willing to join the VTC.
“This is encouraging because these institutions impart practical knowledge that can be applied in the marketplace. I’d also like to urge those not in the youth bracket to enroll for part time classes, so that they can get qualifications to improve employability chances. I know some have the skill but have no papers to prove,” he said.
Area MCA Justin Juma applauded the initiative, saying it comes in a timely fashion, since there is a demand for courses in digital literacy skills.
On the other hand, Makoko urged locals to pick people of substance and character to join Project Management Committees to ensure sustainable development.
“Those chosen must have high integrity standards to ensure value for money is achieved in the development projects they man,” he added.