Safaricom Launches Nationwide Upskilling Bootcamps with Safaricom Hook

Safaricom PLC has launched a nationwide series of upskilling bootcamps known as the Safaricom Hook Circle. These events are strategically designed to empower young individuals across the nation by focusing on three core pillars: technology, careers, and culture.

The inaugural bootcamp took place at Chuka University, located in Tharaka Nithi County, attracting over 4,000 participants from the university and surrounding areas. Attendees engaged in a series of masterclasses delivered by esteemed partners in diverse fields.

“Safaricom Hook Circle aims to connect youth all over Kenya to opportunities that will propel them to succeed in their areas of interest. In collaboration with our partners, we will provide youth in Kenya with the opportunity to learn relevant topics in financial literacy, tech-forward upskilling, career readiness, and culture as a form of expression and income,” stated Fawzia Ali, Chief Consumer Business Officer at Safaricom PLC.

The program is divided into distinct focus areas, beginning with the Culture Hook, which connects young people with their passions.

Renowned partners such as Elevate, Baze Radio, Boomplay, and Artfit conducted masterclasses on monetizing content and breaking into the art and fashion industries.

The Technology Hook took a deep dive into future-ready skills, featuring partners like Power Learn Project, Avunja Mobile, and Transsion, who led sessions aimed at equipping participants with essential tech skills.

Additionally, the Career Hook was instrumental in motivating youth to pursue their career ambitions, with contributions from organizations like Brighter Monday, Wowzi, Trace Academia, ABSA, and Twiva, which provided valuable masterclasses on job readiness.

Understanding the critical importance of mental health and financial literacy, the bootcamp also included sessions hosted by Chiromo Hospital, Absa’s Ready to Work Program, and Old Mutual, underscoring the holistic approach to youth development.

Throughout the Safaricom Hook Circle series, 600 young people are expected to receive technology scholarships from Power Learn Project, while 4,000 participants will gain career training opportunities.

In addition, 15 internship positions will be available through Brighter Monday, which will also assist 60 individuals with CV enhancements.

Furthermore, Transsion is set to offer device financing options for brands like Tecno, Infinix, and Itel, while Twiva will create sales jobs for over 3,000 youth aspiring to be influencers. Participants will also benefit from mentorship programs in technology, fashion, music, and various other fields.

Launched in 2023, Safaricom Hook supports the Gen Z demographic by offering tailored access to tools and resources that leverage Safaricom’s extensive mobile network.

Eligible customers, aged between 10 and 24, can easily join the platform via the Safaricom Hook app or by dialing *555#.

As Kenya continues to embrace the digital age, initiatives like the Safaricom Hook Circle are pivotal in preparing the next generation for success in an ever-evolving job market and creative economy.