Kenya’s youth are talented, ambitious, and eager to make a difference. However, each year, over 1.2 million young people enter a labor market with limited formal opportunities. Compassion International Kenya recognizes that preparing young people for the future involves more than just academics; it requires partnerships that build genuine pathways to self-sufficiency and empower them to take agency.
Through formal Memoranda of Understanding with universities and TVET institutions, Compassion transforms collaboration into:
Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST)
Before formalizing an MOU, Compassion and MUST collaborated on short-term training programs that benefited over 400 youth, laying the foundation for a long-term partnership. MUST offers programs in STEM, agribusiness, and technology, with a focus on research and practical skills. The three-year renewable MOU provides scholarships, tuition and accommodation discounts, flexible payment options, and priority admissions. By equipping students with skills relevant to the job market, MUST encourages self-sufficiency through employment and entrepreneurship. Its culture of innovation also motivates students to take initiative, building their confidence as problem-solvers and leaders. More than 400 students supported by Compassion have advanced to higher education, demonstrating improved academic performance, increased employability, and greater confidence to shape their futures.
Meru Institute of Business Studies (MIBS)
Starting from occasional vocational efforts, MIBS has grown into a crucial partner of Compassion, training over 600 young participants. MIBS offers competency-based courses in various fields, including business, entrepreneurship, hospitality, beauty therapy, tailoring, ICT, and accounting. The three-year, renewable MOU provides subsidized tuition and housing, customized schedules, and training in high-demand sectors. MIBS equips youth for employment and self-employment, helping them develop income streams that improve household conditions. This strategy promotes self-sufficiency by reducing financial reliance and empowering young people to start their own businesses, thereby positively impacting their communities. Graduates, particularly those in the fields of beauty, tailoring, and hospitality, have started businesses across Kenya, creating more opportunities for themselves and others.
Kabarak University – TVET
What began as selective placements has evolved into a formal partnership with Kabarak University’s TVET program, which has trained over 300 youth supported by Compassion. Kabarak offers programs in automotive engineering, electrical and electronics, plumbing, building technology, and ICT within a Christian learning environment. The three-year renewable Memorandum of Understanding provides discounted fees, flexible payment options, curricula aligned with industry standards, and faith-based mentorship. This blend of technical training and moral education promotes self-sufficiency through employable skills and encourages agency through values-based leadership. Graduates develop strong technical abilities and confidence to make a
positive difference in their workplaces and communities. While mainly based in the Rift Valley, Kabarak also attracts students from across Kenya, broadening their networks and perspectives.
Sensei Institute of Technology
Sensei has long collaborated with Compassion and local churches, training over 200 young people across the nation. The institute specializes in fields like automotive mechanics, heavy machinery, construction, plumbing, electrical work, welding, fabrication, and hair & beauty. Its three-year renewable MOU provides scholarships, flexible payment plans, internship options, and nationally recognized certifications. Through dynamic, hands-on training and strong employer partnerships, Sensei enables youth to access income-generating jobs, fostering independence quickly. Additionally, practical learning and rapid employment opportunities boost confidence and self-reliance, empowering youth to see themselves as capable decision makers shaping their futures. Many alumni have launched small businesses or obtained good jobs in construction and mechanics, creating positive impacts that extend to their families and communities.
By combining the strengths of universities, TVETs, employers, churches, and Compassion, these partnerships serve as bridges from potential to opportunity. Together, we are nurturing a generation of young people who are skilled, confident, and empowered to shape their lives and communities.
