Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has challenged the youth to use digital skills to create jobs instead of causing cyber-crime.
In the recent past, many young people use digital technology to cause various crimes. These include cyber bullying, cyber fraud, cyber assassination, defamation and other forms of crime.
Some of the perpetrators have ended up being charged in court.
But Dr Omollo has issued a warning against young people who misuse digital technology.
Speaking at Oriwo Boys High School in Rachuonyo West Sub-county when he presided over a graduation ceremony for over 290 youth who acquired digital skills through a programme implemented by the National Government and Huawei, Dr Omollo said cybercrime can ruin lives of young people.
Dr Omollo said the government had prioritised promotion of digital technology but the efforts should not be abused by cybercrime perpetrators.
“Crime such as digital fraud, cyber bullying, defamation and others must stop. Anybody who gets involved must face legal action,” Dr Omollo said.
The PS said the government is investing hugely in digital literacy to boost job creation among young people. He argued that the youth can use the skills to earn a living through online jobs.
“Digital skills can enable someone to earn a living if utilised wisely. Many people are earning huge amounts of money through the work they do online,” Omollo said.
He said the country’s economy is shifting to digital technology and called on Kenyans to use the technology.
“One of the key agenda of President William Ruto’s government was to promote the digital economy. Today, many young people can use their computers or mobile phones to earn a living at home,” he added.
The PS called on the students who acquired the training to use their skills in transforming their lives and their communities.
“We want the students who have graduated here to cascade the knowledge to other young people in the society for it to make an impact,” Dr Omollo said.
HUAWEI’s official Adam Lane urged the students to apply the skills to enhance their online safety.
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Lane argued that there were many cases of online security such as misuse of personal data.
“Online security is a key component of our training. I believe our trainees are going to share the skills in their communities to enlighten people on how they can be safe online. Avoid sharing your data online anyhow,” Lane said.
Uriri MP Mark Nyamita said the programme will reduce rural urban migration.
“Don’t use digital technology to insult politicians. Use it to earn money and this will help to reduce rural urban migration,” Nyamita said.
Students who acquired the training said the skills will transform their livelihoods.
“The skills learnt will enable us to earn a living through online jobs,” said Damada Akinyi, trainee.
