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In the last few weeks, the PropelA project made significant strides in preparing for the recruitment of its third cohort of apprentices. A multi-channel communications campaign—spanning both digital and offline platforms—was launched to raise awareness and encourage applications, inviting young people aged 18 - 24 in Nairobi to pursue careers in plumbing and electrical work. The response was overwhelming, with 2,000 applications received. This impressive turnout not only underscores the enthusiasm of Nairobi’s youth but also highlights the clear demand for pathways to meaningful careers. About 800 eager individuals participated in our aptitude tests, designed to assess their communication skills and critical thinking. Following these evaluations, 450 qualified candidates moved on to attend on Human Resources coaching session.
However, it's important to acknowledge that approximately half of these candidates will eventually embark on their journey to becoming skilled plumbers and electricians. This highlights a broader issue: each year, a significant number of young Kenyans complete secondary school hoping to pursue traditional higher education. Last year alone, 899,453 candidates sat for the KCSE exams, but only 201,133 qualified for university. The societal perception of non-university pathways in Kenya, coupled with the high number of students who do not qualify for university and the looming threat of a new fee model that could increase costs tenfold, presents a significant challenge. Programs like PropelA aim to address this by offering a viable alternative that equips young people with in-demand skills, providing them with hope and opportunities for the future.
Recognizing these challenges, PropelA has not only provided an alternative path but has also put in place support systems to ensure candidates succeed. To help these young applicants, many of whom have limited experience with the job interview process, PropelA organized an interview coaching session. This session was designed to empower them with the skills and confidence needed for interviews at the companies where they will undertake their 2-year on-the-job training ensuring that they are well-prepared for the interview and know how to present their value.
The coaching session, held at Don Bosco Boys Town in Nairobi covered a variety of important topics. These included preparing for different interview situations, communicating one’s value by showcasing skills, presenting oneself effectively both verbally and non-verbally to make a strong first impression, cultivating confidence throughout the interview process, and mastering essential soft skills for interviews and the workplace.
Following this workshop, selected candidates will undergo an oral interview to put these skills into practice. A further shortlisting will then take place before candidates proceed to company interviews, where employers will select those who best fit the company values and the apprenticeship opportunities available, finally determining who gets into the PropelA programme.
Swisscontact is proud to be part of the transformative journey of the PropelA programme with the private sector in the lead. The success of Titus and Emmanuel, who emerged as top performers at the World Skills competition, is a testament to the impact of skills development when the private sector actively participates. Their remarkable achievements of our apprentices are a testament to the impact of skills development when the private sector actively participates. As we gear up for the November kick-off of PropelA’s third cohort, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our electrical and plumbing partners for their unwavering dedication to this initiative. Your partnership plays a pivotal role in building the workforce of the future. We invite you—and other potential private sector partners—to continue this journey with us by welcoming apprentices into your companies, investing not only in the next generation of talent but also in the long-term success and sustainability of the industry.