By Andrew Mbuva
AIRD-T Skills Hub marked a significant milestone by holding its second graduation ceremony, with 11 students graduating after successfully completing various skills-based training programmes aimed at preparing them for the job market and entrepreneurship.
The graduates received certificates in courses including Media, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Mixology and Barista, Entrepreneurship, among other vocational programmes.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Guest Speaker, Katua Nzile, Director of Governor Press Service in Makueni County, challenged the graduates to put into practice the knowledge and skills they had acquired during their training.
He urged them to face life with determination, courage and discipline, noting that success comes to those who remain focused despite challenges.
Nzile encouraged the graduates to become innovative and create opportunities for themselves instead of waiting for formal employment.
He also called on young people to develop resilience, reminding them that failure should not discourage them but instead be viewed as an important step towards growth and success.
Addressing the graduates, AIRD-T Skills Hub Director Fredrick Kasina congratulated the Class of 2026 for their dedication, perseverance and commitment throughout their studies.
He described their graduation as a reflection of hard work and resilience, adding that education should be viewed as the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, innovation and service rather than its final destination.
Kasina reaffirmed the institution's commitment to nurturing young professionals capable of driving sustainable rural development and transformative change.
He encouraged the graduates to use the knowledge, skills and values they had gained to develop innovative solutions, uplift their communities and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
"As you step into the next chapter of your lives, embrace every opportunity with confidence, integrity and determination. Be bold in pursuing your dreams, remain adaptable in the face of challenges, and never stop seeking ways to make a positive impact," he said.
The colourful graduation ceremony brought together graduates, parents, trainers and invited guests to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026, while underscoring the growing importance of technical and vocational skills in empowering young people with practical knowledge for employment, entrepreneurship and community development.
