Career Pathways Event Empowers Students with Disabilities at JKUAT – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

*Trainees follow proceedings during the training session.*

Employment opportunities for persons with disabilities exist across various sectors, however, access is often limited due to barriers such as workplace inclusivity, accessibility, and awareness.

To address this gap, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), in partnership with Riziki Source, organized a Career Pathways event aimed at empowering persons with disabilities through career development, skills training, and improved access to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Held on March 5, 2026, the event was coordinated by the Jomo Kenyatta University Students Association (JKUSA) and targeted university students. The initiative sought to connect participants with employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, bridging the gap between job seekers with disabilities and inclusive employers.

*Mr. Hassan Oyugi, Head Trainer from Riziki Source Organization, during the training session.*

The interactive forum also welcomed all students, including those directly or indirectly affected by disability, to promote awareness and inclusivity within the university community and beyond.

As part of the event, participants were trained on how to use the Riziki Source App, a mobile platform that connects job seekers with disabilities to employment, internships, and training opportunities across Kenya.

Speaking during the event, Hassan Oyugi, Head Trainer and Programmes Officer at Riziki Source, guided students on how to install, register, and effectively use the app. He encouraged participants to sign up to enhance their access to employment and internship opportunities.

Mr. Oyugi also shared his personal experience as a beneficiary of the app, noting that after completing his university studies in 2019, he secured a job at Riziki Source through the platform.

“The app allows students and job seekers with disabilities to create detailed profiles highlighting their skills, qualifications, and any accommodations they may require. Through the platform, inclusive companies and employers can identify and connect with potential candidates,” said Mr. Oyugi.

*JKUAT staff members and Riziki Source representatives join trainees for a group photo after the session.*

Mr. Isaac Wambua Muinde, from JKUAT’s Gender, Mentorship and Disability Department, thanked Riziki Source for partnering with the university and providing a platform to connect students with career opportunities. He encouraged students with disabilities to pursue employment without feeling disadvantaged.

“Talent is universal, but opportunity is not always equally distributed. Through initiatives like this, we are committed to bridging that gap and ensuring persons with disabilities can fully participate in the workforce,” said Mr. Muinde.

JKUSA Special Needs Representative Marcus Malingi also expressed appreciation to JKUAT and Riziki Source, highlighting the role universities play in creating inclusive environments through education, mentorship, and exposure to industry.

“Today is not just about careers; it is about opportunity, dignity, and inclusion. For many years, persons with disabilities have faced barriers in education, employment, and social participation. However, initiatives like this demonstrate that such barriers can be overcome when institutions and communities work together with a shared vision,” said Mr. Malingi.

The event brought together students from JKUAT, Kenyatta University, Technical University of Kenya, and Multimedia University, providing a platform to explore career opportunities and promote inclusive employment for persons with disabilities.