The National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) program has opened applications for its first cycle, aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs.
In an official announcement, NYOTA highlighted that this government-led initiative seeks to address unemployment and enhance income generation by offering skills training, business support, and savings promotion among the youth.
Funded by the World Bank, this five-year program is designed to support vulnerable youth nationwide by establishing sustainable financial inclusion systems.
“Are you a Kenyan youth aged 18-29 years or a youth with a disability aged 18-35 years? Do you aspire to start or grow your business in Kenya?” the notice reads.
The call for applications is now open for the first cycle, targeting young entrepreneurs across the country.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be Kenyan citizens.
- Be aged 18-29 years (or up to 35 years for persons with disabilities).
- Have a maximum education level of Form 4.
- Possess a valid National Identity Card.
- Own a SIM card registered in their name.
However, individuals who have previously participated in the Kenya Youth Employment Opportunities Project (KYEOP) are not eligible.
Applicants must also be unemployed, underemployed, or working in low-tier jobs to qualify.
Program Structure
The apprenticeship runs for five months, combining hands-on training with mentorship from industry professionals. Upon successful completion, participants will receive formal certification, including Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) from NITA. The program aims to help graduates secure formal employment or establish themselves as independent artisans.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should dial *254# and select the NYOTA project option to proceed.
For more details or inquiries, visit www.nyotaproject.go.ke.
The application deadline is April 30, 2025.
Last year, former Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the government’s commitment to youth-centered policy reforms. He noted that the NYOTA Project aims to reach approximately 810,000 vulnerable youth, including individuals with disabilities up to the age of 35.
