Standard Chartered has unveiled the RISE (Ready for Sustainable Inclusive Employability) programme, a significant initiative under its Futuremakers 2.0 Strategy.

This new phase, executed in collaboration with Sightsavers and Light for the World, aims to bolster the employability of young individuals, both with and without disabilities.

The RISE programme, spanning from April 2024 to March 2027, represents a substantial investment of Sh133 million ($1,029,402).

Its primary goal is to facilitate the entry of young people into the labour market and ensure their retention in decent employment, whether waged or self-employed. Additionally, RISE seeks to enhance the overall labour market system to sustain the programme's outcomes.

Over the next three years, RISE intends to enroll 2,000 young individuals into its jobseeker or job creator pathways.

The programme anticipates that, within six months of its completion, 605 participants will secure decent jobs or maintain their self-employment status.

This effort is financially supported by the Standard Chartered Foundation.

Kariuki Ngari, Managing Director and CEO of Standard Chartered Kenya and Africa, articulated the broader vision behind the initiative.

"Increasing economic participation creates thriving communities, enhancing access to jobs can assist in reducing inequality and boost prosperity," Ngari remarked.

"To maximise our ability to help in this transition, we have taken a stand to Lift Participation and promote economic inclusion through our Futuremakers by Standard Chartered initiative. We hope to develop a talent pool of diversely skilled, employment-ready young people who are fit for the future workplace."

The RISE programme underscores Standard Chartered's commitment to fostering economic inclusion and empowering the next generation to thrive in an evolving job market.