By Anthony Ndege
Safaricom Foundation has agreed to offer a grant of Sh 27,426,560 to Waithaka Vocational Training Centre, in Nairobi’s Waithaka area.
The Institutions Principal Roselyn Theuri said the cash will be paid to the project contractor.
She said this will help removal of asbestos in the entire facility, plumbing work and face-lifting of the training institution.
The foundation will also renovate and equip the ICT Laboratory, equipping of electricals, welding and fabrications’ workshops and the provision of furniture in the study rooms.
The signed statement from the Head of Sustainable Business and Social impact at Safaricom Sandra Ojiambo indicated the project will be managed through Safaricom Foundation’s construction project management consultant.
The Foundation will sponsor 200 students undertaking plumbing, electrical engineering, welding, fabrication and food production courses at Sh 6 million in 2 years.
The beneficiaries will be identified by the Institution’s Administration.
Mrs Theuri said that the good gesture should be emulated by other corporate organizations so that the youth can be self-employed and drive the economy.
“This is a good example; this is caring for the youth especially those from poor backgrounds. Our partnership with Safaricom Foundation will continue so that our youth shape their future,’’ she said.
She urged other organizations and institutions to support the building of boarding facilities at the institution.
“Parents from other parts of the country have been calling to enquire if we offer boarding facilities. This will help us increase the number of youth and beneficiaries from the institution,’’ She said.
The Principal also urged the government to allow the institution to offer Diploma courses instead of offering short courses that take 3 and 6 moths.