- 39 young people from Kericho and Bomet counties receive support to pursue technical skills training, while six graduates receive tools to begin their careers
The Finlays Community Trust has awarded KSh 8.3 million in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarships to support 39 young people from Kericho and Bomet counties in pursuing market-relevant technical skills.
With technical support and funding from Browns Plantations Kenya Limited and Finlays, the programme continues to expand access to quality technical education while creating pathways for young people to transition from training into employment, self-employment and entrepreneurship.
The scholarship awards were presented through the Finlays Community Trust TVET Scholarship Programme, which supports students undertaking courses in Automotive Engineering, Building and Construction, Electrical Installation and Plumbing Technology at Belgut Technical Training Institute in Kericho County and Konoin Technical Training Institute in Bomet County.
The ceremony also marked an important milestone for the programme, with six graduates from the inaugural 2024 scholarship cohort receiving trade-specific start-up toolkits valued at up to KSh 50,000 each after successfully completing their technical training and post-training mentorship.
The toolkits provide graduates with essential professional equipment to help them apply their skills, pursue employment opportunities and establish sustainable livelihoods.
Supporting Youth Skills Development in Kenya
Since its launch in 2024, the Finlays Community Trust TVET Scholarship Programme has supported 119 students through an investment of approximately KSh 25.7 million.
The programme provides more than tuition assistance by combining:
- Technical training support
- Post-training mentorship
- Industrial attachment and workplace exposure
- Career guidance
- Start-up support for graduates
This approach reflects the Trust’s commitment to ensuring that young people are equipped not only with qualifications but also with the practical skills, experience and tools needed to succeed in today’s workforce.
Investing in Communities Through Education
The latest scholarship beneficiaries were selected from all 11 constituencies across Kericho and Bomet counties, reinforcing the Trust’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities for young people in communities where its partners operate.
Through the support of Browns Plantations Kenya Limited and Finlays, the Finlays Community Trust continues to implement programmes that promote education, strengthen livelihoods and support sustainable community development.
Speaking during the scholarship award ceremony, Mr Dushanth Ratwatte, Chief Executive Officer of Browns Plantations Kenya Limited and Patron of the Trust, said:
“Kenya’s future competitiveness will depend on a workforce equipped with practical, industry-relevant skills. Scholarships open doors, but mentorship, workplace experience and the right tools help young people walk confidently through them. Through this programme, we are preparing young people not only to graduate, but to succeed in employment, entrepreneurship and lifelong careers.”
The ceremony was attended by representatives from the National and County Governments, TVET institutions, parents, guardians, community leaders and other stakeholders.
