Naivas Limited has formalised strategic partnerships with seven Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to strengthen retail skills development and create employment opportunities for young Kenyans.
The agreements were signed during a ceremony at the retailer’s head office in Nairobi on Friday, October 23, 2026, in the presence of the Principal Secretary for Technical and Vocational Education and Training.
The partnerships aim to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry requirements by equipping students with practical skills needed in Kenya’s growing retail sector.
Naivas said it has already recruited more than 300 graduates and students from the participating institutions into its stores across the country.
The collaboration focuses particularly on the retailer’s Fresh Department, including specialised areas such as bakery and delicatessen (deli), where practical expertise is essential to daily operations.
Through the partnership, Naivas has worked with the institutions to review and align training curricula with current industry standards and workplace expectations.
The retailer’s subject matter experts from its Bakery and Deli divisions have contributed to curriculum development, helping ensure students acquire relevant technical knowledge before entering the job market.
Students have also benefited from structured industrial attachments at Naivas stores, gaining hands-on experience in retail operations and developing the confidence, professionalism and technical abilities required by employers.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Naivas Chief Executive Officer Andreas Von Paleske reaffirmed the company’s commitment to investing in local talent and creating meaningful career opportunities for young people.
The formal agreements establish a framework for deeper cooperation in curriculum development, internships, industrial attachments, recruitment, knowledge sharing and continued engagement between the retailer and the institutions.
The Principal Secretary for TVET commended the initiative, noting the importance of industry-led partnerships in preparing graduates with practical, market-relevant skills.
The collaboration is also expected to strengthen commercial ties between Naivas and the participating institutions. The institutions engage with the retailer as suppliers and retail partners, creating opportunities for mutual benefit while supporting skills development and economic growth.
The agreements bring together education and industry stakeholders to address workforce needs while improving graduates’ readiness for employment in a competitive retail environment.
The signing ceremony was attended by Naivas Executive Committee members, its Chief Human Resources Officer, senior management representatives from the participating institutions, government officials and other stakeholders from the education and retail sectors.
Naivas said the initiative reflects its continued commitment to youth empowerment, innovation in skills development and community growth.
The partnerships come as employers increasingly seek workers with practical experience and specialised skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
By strengthening links between training institutions and businesses, the retailer aims to develop a sustainable talent pipeline for its operations while supporting young Kenyans seeking career opportunities in the retail industry.