Students with special needs (SN) from the Machakos Technical Institute for the Blind can now access online jobs courtesy of training conducted by the government through the Jitume Digital Lab.Machakos institute Board of Directors chairman, Alex Kaluyu, while speaking to the media said that the training program is set to help students sustain themselves through online jobs while studying.Kaluyu emphasized that through the one-week training, the institution aims to train youths who can create employment for themselves and others.He urged the youths to become independent by taking advantage of the digital space and earn income that will uplift their lives and their families.'This is a great opportunity to diversify their chance at employability and it helps in completing the journey towards digital inclusion,' said the board chair.He noted that online jobs provide equal employment opportunities for students with or without disabilities.Kaluyu also noted that digital access is inclusive and will help students with special needs together with regular students train together, learn from each other, and be able to easily interact with each other.'Acquisition of social skills is part of the mentorship that we are looking for and mentor them within the digital space, employability, and business space so that they can participate equally like any other youth,' he added.The board chair disclosed that technology is the game changer and equalizer of opportunities and the institution for both regular and students with special needs.''The students have been equipped with the computers, software, and content that is in the computers and they can now use the internet to access more content,' noted Kaluyu.Kaluyu commended the ICTA, Konza Techno polis, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) for their support, saying since the launch of the jitume lab last year, the institution has seen a lot of improvement in access to IT skills for youth especially those who are visually impaired.One of the trainers, Annie Kiruja said the government program will help students get access to various opportunities online.Kiruja said that the training includes transcription, content writing, and data entry for both special needs students and regular students.She called on the trainees to practice self-discipline and be patient.Kiruja said after every training the students will be mentored until they start earning.Source: Kenya News Agency