Riragia Technical and Vocational College (TVC) marked a historic moment as it held its first graduation ceremony, drawing praise from local leaders and the Education Ministry.
The occasion, which was graced by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba in Marani Sub County, saw 203 graduands feted with different disciplines.
Speaking at the ceremony, Riragia TVC’s Principal Dr. Paul Makori extended his sincere gratitude to the Education Ministry for the unwavering support and acknowledged the leadership of its founding Principal, Mr. Evans Bosire, who is currently at Sigalagala National Polytechnic.
“The provision of equipment by the national government has helped to elevate technical training standards,” noted Dr. Makori.
The Principal recalled the launch of the institution in 2019, saying that the institution began with only five pioneering trainees, eight trainers, and five dedicated support staff.
He celebrated the institution’s national recognition and growth, citing that the recent enrolment successes are a sign of strong public trust.
The Principal expressed gratitude to parents, guardians, and the county leadership for their role in supporting 2,672 currently enrolled trainees.
“Thanks to our community outreach and local bursaries from the area member of Parliament (MP), Riragia admitted 700 students in September and 462 more in May. As a result, the college is well on track to reach its target of 5,000 students in the coming years,” Dr. Makori continued.
Further, he offered heartfelt congratulations to the graduating trainees and reminded them to be ambassadors of the institution.
The Principal concluded by recognising the efforts of the Ririaga TVC’s teaching and non-teaching staff and thanked sponsors and families for standing by their students.
The Kenya Association of Teaching and Training Institutions (KATTI) Secretary General Shadrack Tonui noted that Riragia TVC was one of the region’s youngest but fastest-growing technical institutions.
He expressed full support for the government’s target of enrolling two million trainees in TVET by July, saying the move will position Kenya as a global tech hub.
The Secretary General, who is also the Principal of Kericho Township TVC, appealed for the timely release of scholarships and loans, adding that any delays will undermine planning and delivery of services in higher education.
He praised the government for rolling out the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative to TVETs.
“The rollout of RPL is a revolutionary step in recognising uncertified but skilled artisans like masons, tailors, and plumbers,” affirmed Tonui.
Speaking at the same event, Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi called for the establishment of a dedicated administrative unit to support Riragia’s growing student base and institutional needs.
Nyakundi emphasised the college’s potential and pledged legislative support alongside the Cabinet Secretary.
The MP noted land constraints as a major hurdle to further growth and urged the Ministry of Education to help the institution acquire additional land for expansion.
In conclusion, Hon. Nyakundi reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening educational development in the region and thanked all partners for their dedication.
By Wesonga Dancan and Willis Moturi
