Govt Extends Deadline For NYOTA Aptitude Test
The process is being carried out simultaneously in all 290 constituency headquarters across the country.
Marvin Chege 
In a move to promote inclusivity and ensure no aspiring entrepreneur is left behind, the government has extended the deadline for the NYOTA Project Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test (EAT) by one day — from Friday, October 24, 2025, to Saturday, October 25, 2025.
The announcement was made by the Principal Secretary for MSMEs Development, Susan Mang’eni, during a visit to Moiben Constituency in Uasin Gishu County, where she joined local leaders in overseeing the ongoing nationwide physical validation exercise. The process is being carried out simultaneously in all 290 constituency headquarters across the country.
Mang’eni explained that the short extension was necessary to ensure every eligible applicant gets a fair shot at completing the exercise, "emphasizing the Government’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness in the ongoing youth empowerment initiative," according to a statement sent to Viral Tea.
The NYOTA Project is a flagship government youth empowerment initiative aimed at identifying, nurturing, and supporting Kenya’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
PS Susan Mang'eni speaking during a NYOTA verification exercise in Uasin Gishu County on October 24, 2025. /VIRAL TEA KE
Through the Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test, the project seeks to evaluate participants’ business skills and readiness for enterprise development programs that will follow.
Joining the PS at the Moiben event were Prof. Phylis Bartoo, Member of Parliament for Moiben Constituency, officials from implementing agencies, and officers from the National Government Administration (NGAO).
The leaders praised the project for bridging the gap between innovation and opportunity among the youth, noting that empowering young entrepreneurs is key to driving Kenya’s economic growth.
The extension has already generated a wave of excitement among youth applicants nationwide, especially those who were racing against the clock to complete the test.
With the new deadline, the government hopes to boost participation and reinforce its message that no one should be locked out of opportunity because of time constraints.
The NYOTA Project continues to gain momentum as one of Kenya’s most promising platforms for youth empowerment and MSME growth, signalling the state’s renewed focus on turning youthful energy into enterprise.
What Is The NYOTA Project Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test?
This is a national assessment initiative launched under Kenya’s State Department for MSMEs Development to identify and nurture the next generation of young entrepreneurs. It’s part of the wider NYOTA Project — a flagship government program designed to empower youth by equipping them with the skills, mindset, and opportunities needed to succeed in business and self-employment.
At its core, the aptitude test serves as a screening and discovery tool. It evaluates participants’ entrepreneurial potential by measuring their problem-solving ability, creativity, financial literacy, business acumen, and leadership traits.
The test helps the government and its implementing partners determine which participants are most suited for further capacity-building programs, mentorship, or funding opportunities under the NYOTA initiative.
The program’s design reflects a major shift in Kenya’s youth empowerment strategy — moving away from blanket funding schemes toward data-driven, merit-based empowerment. By first assessing applicants through the aptitude test, the government ensures that support and resources go to individuals who demonstrate genuine entrepreneurial readiness and commitment.
Beyond testing, the NYOTA Project is about building a culture of enterprise among young Kenyans. Those who perform well in the aptitude test are expected to proceed to business incubation, training, and access-to-finance stages, where they receive guidance from industry experts, exposure to investors, and connections to markets.
Ultimately, the NYOTA Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test is not just an exam but a gateway into Kenya’s evolving entrepreneurship ecosystem. It embodies the government’s broader mission to transform youth from job seekers into job creators, driving innovation, productivity, and sustainable growth across the country.
