We Will Improve Learning Experiences in VTC’s

The Trans Nzoia administration has introduced plans that will improve learning experiences at county vocational training centers, County CEC for education Julie Kichewen Rutto has announced.

The CEC said efforts by development partners have assisted the county in upturn enrollment and broadening the courses they offer at the centers.

She was speaking during the official opening of a one-week Capacity building training for the center managers and board of management from the 31 vocational Training centers at the Kitale National Polytechnic.

“The county government will invest more resources into training centers to ensure that they meet standards. By partnering with the Italian Way Cooperation and the Technical Vocational Education Training Authority (TVETA), we will improve and boost the delivery of technical skills. Ultimately, the skills will be useful for self-employment,” added Mrs. Kichwen.

She said Governor Natembeya’s manifestos focus more on skill transfer and job creation saying improving technical education will help the county equip youth with technical skills.

According to her, the Department of Education will implement an initiative that will equip training centers with modern tools and equipment through adequate funding.

“The training for the managers and board of management on the proper management of the vocational training centers in West Pokot and Trans-Nzoia counties is so timely and it’s going a long way in improving the standard of training offered by the training center,” said Kichwen.
In order for the centers to be self-sufficient rather than dependent on government assistance, she challenged managers to initiate income-generating activities.

The West Pokot County Education CEC Rebecca Kide echoed her sentiments, saying both counties are committed to ensuring students receive bursaries and other support to finish their studies.

Currently, Mrs. Kide said, 80 percent of job openings are technical, so young people from the two counties should take advantage of VTC.

“The political goodwill from the two county governors; Simon Kachapin and George Natembea is key in changing the perception that VTCs belong to failures. Young people need to enroll in large numbers as the government is ready to sponsor them. Already both counties have set aside 30% of bursary funds to assist them,” she said.

Among those who attended the training includes Chief officer Susan Ngerah, Trans Nzoia County Director vacational training Eliud Lusweti among other government officials.