BY ALBERT NYAKUNDI
The Professional Criminologists Association of Kenya (PCAK) has urged young initiates in Tharaka Nithi County to avoid crime and live a responsible life.
On Saturday at Ntumu P.C.E.A Boys Boarding Primary school during a graduation ceremony, seventy-six initiates were counselled by PCAK.
PCAK founding chairman Munene Mugambi asked parents to guide the young boys to become responsible adults.
PCAK, Bongo Foundation, Lower Chogoria Elites Foundation among others sponsored the ceremony.
Tharaka Nithi Deputy Governor Francis Kagwima was the chief guest.
He asked the boys to avoid drugs and instead start small investments even if it is keeping a chicken.
“Rehabilitation of drug addicts is expensive and may not lead to full recovery of victims.” Kagwima said.
Mugambi urged the community to mentor the boys.
“Mentorship ought to be a continuous activity by all while monitoring every step in the young men’s pathway.” Mugambi said.
He said the young initiates have been taught life skills, safety and security education as well as acceptable cultural practices according to their age.
The chairman was accompanied by PCAK’s director of training, research and publication Dr Elijah Kirimi and PCAK Youth Envoy Florida Kathure.
Dr Kirimi told the young initiates to work hard in their studies and be disciplined.
“This will enable you to give back to the society in future and if you cannot then you will end up stealing from the society.” He said.
Kirimi added the partnership is a commitment by shareholders in enhancing a paradigm shift towards present day male rite of passage.
“This is indeed a departure from the retrogressive traditional practice, where some of the approach and doctrines are incompatible with the modern world.” He said.
Government Vehicles Check Unit commander Wanjiru Andanje graced the ceremony.
She is a registered criminologist with PCAK.
Andaje called on the youths to jealously guard the teachings they received at the camp and urged them to avoid crime and radicalization.
ALSO READ : Professional Criminologists of Kenya condemn police brutality meted on JKUAT student