- Roads and Transport CS Davis Chirchir has called on learning institutions to align training with international labour market demands.
- He urged schools and colleges to expand foreign language programmes to improve graduates’ competitiveness abroad.
- The CS said diaspora remittances have become a major contributor to Kenya’s economy.
The growing contribution of Kenyans working abroad to the national economy has heightened the need for learning institutions to align their programmes with global labour market requirements, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has said.
Chirchir urged schools and colleges to introduce courses and skills that can prepare learners for overseas employment opportunities.
Speaking at Kabarnet Boys Senior School in Baringo County, he particularly called for the expansion of foreign language studies, saying proficiency in international languages would give Kenyan professionals a competitive advantage in foreign job markets.
“There are so many job opportunities in overseas countries like Dubai, Singapore, America, China and France. Learning institutions just need to ensure that they produce professionals who are well versed with at least one foreign language,” said Chirchir.
Diaspora remittances
The Cabinet Secretary said labour export has become a major source of foreign exchange earnings, with thousands of Kenyans employed abroad supporting families and communities through remittances.
“Kenyans who work in various overseas countries always send the proceeds they get to their families in different parts of this country. In this way they are helping to grow our economy,” he said.
According to Chirchir, diaspora remittances have risen significantly, growing from more than KSh400 billion in 2022 to over KSh600 billion in 2025.
He attributed the increase to deliberate government efforts to create pathways for Kenyans seeking employment abroad and strengthen engagement with the diaspora.
The CS said the establishment of the State Department for Diaspora Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs reflects the government’s commitment to labour mobility and overseas employment.
Students urged to prepare for global careers
Addressing students, Chirchir encouraged them to prepare adequately for both local and international opportunities.
“This is good news for you students because you are assured that the future is bright and it is very important for you to ensure that you are well prepared to take up both national and global opportunities in the near future,” he said.
He commended Kabarnet Boys Senior School for introducing programmes such as aviation studies, drawing and design, French and German languages, saying the initiatives were aligned with the government’s agenda of enhancing skills and connecting professionals to global job markets.
French Ambassador to Kenya Arnaud Suquet praised the institution’s commitment to language education and donated French learning materials.
He also pledged continued collaboration and possible exchange programmes to benefit students studying French.
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Chirchir further lauded the school’s contribution to leadership development, noting that former President Daniel arap Moi once taught at the institution and later served as chairman of its Board of Management for four decades.
By Kimutai Langat
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