Naivas takes significant steps in addressing the skill gap in Kenya.

Naivas Chief of Strategy Andreas von Paleske during the graduate trainee inaugural cohort graduation in Nairobi on June 5, 2024.
Image: LEAH MUKANGAI

Naivas, a prominent local supermarket chain, has taken a significant step towards addressing the skills gap in Kenya’s retail sector by graduating the first cohort of its Graduate Trainee (GT) Programme.

This intensive nine-month training initiative, launched in 2023, aims to equip fresh graduates with the necessary competencies to thrive in various business functions within the retail industry.

Kenya’s labour market faces a notable skills mismatch, a challenge that hampers both job seekers and employers.

As the country pursues economic growth and development, aligning the workforce’s skills with industry demands remains a critical issue.

The GT Programme by Naivas is a proactive measure to upskill young professionals, enhancing their ability to excel in the retail sector, which contributes nine per cent to Kenya’s GDP.

Naivas Chief of Strategy Andreas von Paleske highlighted the importance of the retail sector to Kenya’s economy, noting that it is often perceived as a fallback career option.

He emphasized Naivas’ commitment to changing this perception by attracting and retaining top talent through clear career paths and initiatives like the Naivas Retail Academy, with the GT program being a key component.

The graduation of 35 trainees as Naivas employees marks a milestone in this initiative, with plans to expand the program and forge partnerships with more educational institutions.

“Naivas aims to attract and retain top talent in the country. Creating clear career paths for our employees is vital, which led to the establishment of the Naivas Retail Academy, with the GT program as a key component,”

“Today, we celebrate the first graduation of this program, welcoming 35 trainees as Naivas employees. This milestone is just the beginning, and we plan to expand the program further, including partnerships with more learning institutions,” said von Paleske.

David Kimani, Naivas’s Managing Director, reinforced the company’s commitment to transforming the retail industry by developing future leaders.

He stressed that having the right people is essential for the company’s success and sustainability beyond its founders, and the GT Programme underscores Naivas’ dedication to nurturing the next generation of retail professionals.

“Our success is measured by our ability to transform the industry, and having the right people is central to this. As a homegrown Kenyan brand, developing the next generation of leaders is crucial. This program underscores our commitment to ensuring the longevity of the business beyond its founders.”

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