Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe has challenged university and college students across the county to embrace opportunities, build confidence and play a meaningful role in Kitui’s development.

The Governor made the remarks today in Kitui town when he graced the first anniversary retreat of the Kitui County University and College Students Association (KUCSA). The event brought together students from various universities and colleges to reflect on the association’s achievements over the past year and chart its future direction.

The retreat also saw the launch of KUCSA’s Strategic Plan for the Financial Year 2026/2027, setting out the association’s priorities and programmes as it seeks to strengthen the voice and participation of students in county affairs.

Governor Malombe highlighted his administration’s investment in education and youth empowerment, noting that the Pro-Poor Education Support Programme has invested Ksh 913.7 million since 2013 and benefited 128,051 learners across the county.

He further pointed to the expansion of technical and digital skills training through 56 Vocational Training Centres and 27 ICT Centres. He said the Kitui County Youth Digital Skills Programme is also equipping young people with skills needed to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the digital economy.

Malombe emphasised that young people must be given space and a voice in shaping the future of the county. He congratulated KUCSA on reaching its first anniversary and urged students to remain respectful, honest and dependable while using every available opportunity to demonstrate their abilities and realise their potential.

The Governor was accompanied by CECMs Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele (Agriculture), Phoebe Mutemi (Culture), Reuben Itiko (Roads) and Fredrick Kimanga (Lands), as well as Chief Officers Ferdinand Kathenge (Tourism) and Nason Kang’alya (Youth), among other senior county officials.

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