In a vibrant ceremony on Thursday, October 31, 2024, the YMCA Kisumu branch celebrated the graduation of 134 students who completed various vocational courses, including beauty therapy, hairdressing, motor vehicle mechanics, and catering. The graduates, dressed in striking gowns, beamed with pride as they received certificates, ready to enter Kenya’s job market equipped with practical skills.
Irine Maloba, one of the graduates, expressed gratitude to her main sponsor, KCB, and Migosi Ward MCA Pamela Oyoo, as well as the YMCA administration and staff, for supporting her educational journey. “There are no boundaries at YMCA when it comes to pursuing multiple courses,” Maloba shared, adding that she almost dropped out due to financial constraints. She praised the institution’s flexibility, allowing students to take multiple courses alongside their primary area of study, and highlighted the dedication of the tutors.
National YMCA Chairman Eng. Tom Waka, who served as the chief guest, addressed the large crowd gathered to celebrate the achievements of these young Kenyans. Eng. Waka thanked partners who have supported the YMCA through moral, material, and financial means.
At YMCA, where I serve on the National Board, the Kisumu branch stands out as an icon of tertiary education. Today’s graduates are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our tutors,” he said.
Eng. Waka emphasized the country’s need for tertiary-level graduates, noting that Kenya, as a middle-income economy, requires more hands-on skills to ensure technical sustainability. He also revealed plans to transform the Kenya YMCA College of Agriculture and Technology (KYCAT) into a fully-fledged university, providing graduates with an option to further their education.
We’re seeing a shift from traditional degrees to middle-level training, which will help our country by producing skilled graduates who are prepared to transition seamlessly into higher education,” he remarked.
YMCA Kisumu Branch Manager Pamela Kaleka encouraged the graduates, noting that while the world faces significant challenges, these also present vast opportunities. “You are the technology natives of today, and you will bring solutions to issues such as environmental conservation and climate change,” she said.
Among the honored guests was Kisumu MCA Pamela Oyoo, who reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the YMCA. Addressing the graduates, she reminded them of their role in driving solutions for pressing issues, including environmental sustainability and the conservation of natural resources.
As the event concluded, the Kisumu YMCA’s 8th graduation ceremony celebrated not only the accomplishments of its students but also the institution’s commitment to equipping young Kenyans with the skills necessary to thrive in the modern workforce.
