The Power Learn Project, working with the International Labour Organization, Microsoft and the Garissa County Government, has enrolled over 700 young people from Garissa’s refugee‑hosting areas in a new digital skills programme.

The initiative targets a total of 1,700 participants across Garissa and Turkana counties, with more than 1,000 applications received in Garissa alone and women making up 35% of applicants.

Sixteen of the thirty‑seven digital hubs identified for the two counties have already been onboarded to support training delivery.

Course structure and certification support

Enrolled participants are undertaking a 25‑week blended learning curriculum that covers foundational digital literacy as well as specialisations such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and data analytics.

The programme includes professional certification and career‑support services designed to help graduates secure employment, launch businesses or pursue remote work opportunities.

Microsoft is contributing up to 1,000 certification vouchers for graduates, covering qualifications like Azure Fundamentals, Azure AI Fundamentals, Power BI Data Analyst and Microsoft 365 Fundamentals.

Why the programme matters for Garissa’s youth

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama Adam highlighted the need for skills that match the changing nature of work, noting that the programme brings practical digital learning to communities and creates pathways to sustainable livelihoods.

Power Learn Project co‑founder Mumbi Ndung’u said the effort aims to close the gap between access to technology and access to economic opportunity, especially for young people in refugee‑hosting areas.

The launch follows a similar rollout in Kakuma, Turkana County, in June 2026, reflecting a broader focus on digital training for regions with large refugee populations.

Future phases and continued support

Partners plan to continue the programme in Garissa and Turkana, concentrating on digital training, certification and employment pathways to help participants access income‑generating opportunities.