President William Ruto has challenged young Kenyans to put learning and skills development ahead of the desire for quick earnings, saying the knowledge and experience gained at the beginning of a career are what shape future success.
Speaking on Friday during the launch of the Next Generation Youth Employment Programme (NextGen.KE) at State House, Nairobi, the President said young people should see their first jobs as opportunities to grow professionally, build discipline and prepare themselves for bigger responsibilities in the future rather than focusing only on a pay cheque.
"And to the young people of Kenya, I leave you with one challenge. Give special attention to learning before earning. Your first job is not merely a source of income. It is your next great classroom."
Ruto said the changing world of work rewards those who continue learning, embrace new experiences and use every opportunity to improve themselves. He said every assignment, challenge and correction helps prepare young people for greater responsibilities in the future.
"Every task you undertake, every mistake you correct, every mentor you encounter and every challenge you overcome is preparing you for opportunities you cannot yet see."
He urged young people not to be discouraged by setbacks, saying every experience gained along the way contributes to personal and professional growth and eventually opens doors that may not be visible at the beginning of a career.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and UNDP Kenya Resident Representative Dr Jean-Luc Stalon sign the Next Generation of Kenya Youth Employment Programme financial agreement at State House, Nairobi, on July 24, 2026. PHOTO/PCS
The President said lasting career success comes from investing in knowledge, practical skills, discipline and good character instead of pursuing immediate financial rewards alone.
"Those who focus only on today's salary often limit tomorrow's possibilities. But those who dedicate themselves to acquiring knowledge, building skills, cultivating discipline and developing character eventually create opportunities that money alone can never buy."
Ruto said the government launched NextGen.KE to help young people move smoothly from school into the workplace by equipping them with practical experience, workplace readiness and the skills employers are looking for.
He noted that while education provides a strong foundation, graduates also need exposure to real working environments where they can apply what they have learnt, gain confidence and strengthen their abilities.
According to the President, the programme reflects the government's commitment to creating more opportunities for young people and helping them realise their full potential through meaningful employment.
He said Kenya had placed young people at the centre of its development plans and was now moving beyond discussions on youth unemployment to implementing programmes that expand employment opportunities and strengthen the country's workforce.
Ruto also stressed the importance of mentorship and apprenticeship, saying every generation has a duty to pass knowledge, skills and experience to those coming after them because this is how strong professions and successful nations are built.
As he concluded his address, the President said careers, prosperity and national progress are achieved through deliberate decisions and sustained effort rather than luck.
"That is how careers are built, that is how prosperity is created, and that is how nations are transformed. Not by chance, but by choice."
He officially launched the Next Generation Youth Employment Programme, expressing confidence that it will equip young Kenyans with the experience, skills and discipline needed to compete successfully in the job market.