Diana Muthoni-Getira, a sociology and economics intern, has found a new calling as a health and safety officer at the Nyeri Modern Market construction site in Rware Ward, Nyeri County. She says her experience on site has enabled her to develop a new career pathway, taking on responsibilities beyond her academic background. The construction site is providing young people with opportunities to apply their academic training in new ways.
Muthoni-Getira's experience on site has exposed her to aspects of construction that were outside her academic background. She says she didn't know much about construction or the development happening at the site when she started. However, she has gained practical experience and built professional networks, meeting people from different places who come for employment.
The Nyeri Modern Market project has engaged seven interns, providing young people with opportunities to gain practical experience. Project Clerk of Works Dorcas Kathambi Kang'ethe says the interns have developed their skills during their time on site, with some becoming interested in construction. The project is taking shape as a modern trading facility designed to provide improved trading spaces and accommodate a higher number of traders.
The Nyeri Modern Market construction has generated employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers within the locality. At 70 per cent physical progress, the project is expected to facilitate the relocation of traders from the bus terminal and provide dedicated spaces for different categories of traders. The market will include areas for fruits and vegetables, clothes and shoes, household goods, as well as cold stores and bulk stores.
The project brief notes that significant time was required during mass excavation after the site was found to be located on a former dumping area, requiring excavation of more than 10 metres. The development is also intended to provide supporting facilities, including an ICT hub, social hall, M-Pesa shops, a children's play area, and waste management facilities.
For Muthoni-Getira, the experience has demonstrated the value of practical exposure for young people entering the workforce. She encourages young people to take advantage of opportunities that allow them to gain practical experience and develop skills. The site provides opportunities for people to learn from one another, with qualified workers taking on responsibilities while others receive practical training.
The Nyeri Modern Market campaign brief identifies employment, expanded trading space, and increased opportunities for businesses among the anticipated socio-economic benefits of the development. Muthoni-Getira's story highlights the importance of practical experience in shaping young people's careers and providing them with skills and opportunities for growth.
Key points
- A sociology and economics intern has taken on a health and safety role at the Nyeri Modern Market construction site.
- The Nyeri Modern Market project has engaged seven interns, providing young people with opportunities to gain practical experience.
- The project is expected to facilitate the relocation of traders from the bus terminal and provide dedicated spaces for different categories of traders.
