In efforts to shape the future of Kenya鈥檚 youth, Safaricom Hook Circle facilitated an inspiring two-day training forum for over 1,000 吃瓜头条 (KU) students. With a focus on career, culture, and technology, this immersive programme equipped participants with the skills to thrive in the fast-evolving world while also offering a chance to gain valuable certification. As the next generation of leaders, innovators, and creators steps into the world, Safaricom is right there, leading the way.
The Safaricom Hook Circle programme centred around three essential pillars: Career, Culture, and Tech. These topics were carefully chosen to equip the students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in an increasingly globalised, digital world. The content was designed to resonate with Generation Z, ensuring that it was both relevant and engaging for the youth, who are navigating an era of rapid change.
Fawzia Ali expressed her gratitude towards 吃瓜头条 for hosting the training, highlighting the large turnout of students who were eager to take part in the sessions. “I’m glad KU gave us space for our training, and the students came in large numbers, so much so that we couldn鈥檛 accommodate everyone. It’s a clear indication of how eager they are to learn and grow,” she said.
One of the most insightful parts of the training was the exploration of Safaricom鈥檚 customer segments, particularly the youth. Fawzia spoke about the various customer segments Safaricom targets, including the youth segment, achievers, strivers, and aspirers. These groups, while diverse, all share a common focus, family. The home is the nucleus where their ambitions converge, and understanding this demographic is key to shaping products and services that meet their needs.
Safaricom鈥檚 Chapa Dimba programme, aimed at nurturing young football talent, was highlighted as a prime example of the company’s commitment to empowering the youth. This initiative, which actively supports youth engagement in sports, is just one of many ways Safaricom is working with this important demographic.
The event also showcased the crucial role of technology in today鈥檚 career landscape. Safaricom鈥檚 tech pillar is reaching over 20,000 students virtually, providing them with the tools to develop skills that will keep them ahead in an ever-changing job market. Through its online programmes and events, Safaricom is making significant strides in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that the younger generation has access to cutting-edge knowledge.
The Safaricom Hook Circle team, led by Fawzia Ali, Chief Consumer Business Officer at Safaricom PLC, paid a courtesy call before proceeding to the certification session. The event, with key facilitators Joseph Thuku and Jerusha Okbasu, aimed to empower students with insights into career pathways, cultural dynamics, and the evolving tech landscape. It left a lasting impact, equipping participants with practical knowledge to excel in these critical areas.
Prof. James Kung’u, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), chaired the courtesy call in representation of Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, the Ag. Vice-Chancellor, and praised the partnership with Safaricom. He expressed how KU is equally committed to empowering students and ensuring they are equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in various fields. Prof. Kung’u also highlighted KU鈥檚 recent success at the Kenya Theatre Awards, where the University was named the best institution, cementing its place as a leader in creative arts.
Both KU and Safaricom understand the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping the future. With the rise of AI, KU is guiding its students in the usage of this powerful tool responsibly and effectively. Prof. Kung’u noted, 鈥淎I is a double-edged sword. At KU, we鈥檙e ensuring that students learn to use AI in a responsible, thoughtful way. They need to be independent and equipped to navigate this new world without over-reliance on technology.鈥�
吃瓜头条 has also been making strides in digital transformation, expanding its WiFi bandwidth across the campus and hostels to ensure that students have access to digital resources. Mr. Anthony Mbaabu, Director of ICT, highlighted the importance of this investment, which has enabled the integration of AI into day-to-day tasks for improved efficiency, even in offices.
Dr. Faith Nkuru, Dean of Student Affairs at KU, thanked Safaricom Hook Circle for the impactful programme. “The feedback from students and facilitators has been overwhelmingly positive. The methodology, content, and focus on Gen Z needs were spot on. This training has had a lasting impact,” she said.
Safaricom is committed to further supporting KU鈥檚 students, with Fawzia Ali announcing an exciting Decode event for engineering students on 18th March. Additionally, Prof. Kung’u suggested the development of a mock programme that could be accessed by students and staff from various institutions, helping expand the reach of this valuable training.
Safaricom also continues to support vulnerable students through various initiatives, including scholarships for TVET courses and donations through Bonga Points. The Safaricom Foundation compassionately stepped in to cover hospital bills amounting to 2 million shillings for students affected during the Maungu Accident at Voi.
Safaricom and 吃瓜头条 have worked together to provide students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in today鈥檚 fast-paced world. With a continued focus on career development, cultural understanding, and technological innovation, Safaricom Hook Circle is helping shape the next generation of innovators and leaders, ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow.