By Elizabeth Wanjiku

On Friday, November 8, USIU-Africa Disability Inclusion Office and Placement Career Services in collaboration with Light for the World Kenya, launched the Ready for Inclusive Sustainable Employment and Entrepreneurship (RISE/E) program, an initiative aimed at equipping all students with the skills needed to bridge the gap between graduation and meaningful employment. While the program is open to every student, it places special emphasis on ensuring students with disabilities have equal access to these opportunities, recognizing the additional barriers they often face in securing internships and job placements. The RISE/E program aims to make a difference by creating a more inclusive workforce where all students, regardless of their abilities, are prepared to excel.

In this onboarding session, students were introduced to a range of components designed to make them job-ready. These components include employability skills training, such as resume-building, interview techniques, and communication skills. Recognizing that students with disabilities may face unique challenges, the program has incorporated strategies to help them confidently navigate the workplace and advocate for accommodations where necessary. This approach not only levels the playing field but also fosters a sense of empowerment among students, enabling them to enter the workforce with the same confidence as their peers.

A key feature of the program is safeguarding, which ensures responsible and respectful interactions within professional environments. This element includes training on setting boundaries, respecting personal space, and understanding reporting channels for any issues that may arise. Safeguarding is crucial for all students but especially so for those with disabilities, who may experience heightened vulnerability in certain workplace situations. This component emphasizes mutual respect and integrity, promoting an inclusive and respectful work culture for everyone involved.

The professional development curriculum, tailored for all participants, includes essential skills such as crafting impactful CVs and cover letters, interview preparation, and workplace etiquette. Special sessions focus on building self-leadership, advocacy skills, and workplace professionalism, empowering all students to thrive in their careers. For students with disabilities, this training is particularly valuable as it includes practical strategies for self-advocacy and tips on how to discuss necessary accommodations. This inclusive approach enables every participant to feel prepared and equipped to navigate the demands of the modern workplace.

In addition to technical skills, the program addresses mental health and work-life balance, acknowledging the importance of well-being for all students as they enter demanding environments. The program provides resources and strategies to help students manage stress and maintain a balanced lifestyle, recognizing that mental health can impact productivity and overall job satisfaction. This holistic approach is beneficial for every student, as it promotes a culture of well-being and resilience.

Financial literacy is another integral component of the program. Through sessions on budgeting, saving, and long-term financial planning, students are encouraged to develop sound financial habits early in their careers. This training is essential for everyone but can be especially empowering for students with disabilities, who may face additional financial considerations. By instilling these skills, the program aims to support long-term financial independence and stability for all.

The program also values student feedback and input, creating a meeting schedule with a mix of physical and virtual sessions to accommodate diverse needs and preferences. This flexibility not only makes it easier for students with disabilities to attend but also allows every student to participate in a format that works best for them. The regular meetings provide a supportive space for learning, mentorship, and community-building, ensuring that students have access to guidance and resources as they progress.

The launch of the RISE/E program at USIU-Africa signifies a shared commitment between the university and Light for the World Kenya to foster a more inclusive job market. By providing access to skill-building, mentorship, and industry exposure, the program ensures that all students—regardless of their background or abilities—have the opportunity to succeed. The program is about creating an inclusive environment where each student can find their place in the workforce, advocate for themselves, and build a fulfilling career. Through this initiative, USIU-Africa and Light for the World are working to dismantle barriers, promote equality, and support a future where all students have the resources and support they need to thrive in their professional journeys. The training will end on Friday, January 17, 2025 when the students will graduate from the program.