The Trans Nzoia County government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening vocational training as part of efforts to reduce youth unemployment and promote self-reliance.
County Chief Officer for Education and Vocational Training, Kennedy Etiang, urged the public to embrace vocational and technical education and discard the long-held belief that such training is meant for academic failures.
He was speaking during the handover of start-up kits to 180 youths who recently graduated from Matisi, Machungwa, and Kitale Vocational Training Centres under a partnership between the county government and Child Rescue Kenya (CRK).
Mr. Etiang said vocational training plays a critical role in equipping young people with valuable technical and entrepreneurial skills that enable them to start income-generating activities and reduce dependency.
He reiterated the county’s commitment to strengthening the sector through increased investment in training facilities, modern equipment, and qualified instructors.
“As a government, we are committed to ensuring that the 32 vocational training centres across Trans Nzoia County are fully equipped to meet the growing demand for practical skills. The CRK programme is a noble initiative targeting vulnerable youths, providing them with training and equipment to start their own businesses and improve their livelihoods,” he said.
The Chief Officer lauded the partnership between the county and Child Rescue Kenya, saying it has transformed the lives of many young people and called for more stakeholders to join efforts in advancing technical education.
Trans Nzoia County Director for Vocational Training, Eliud Lusweti, commended CRK and its partner Cooperaid for their eight-year collaboration with the county.
“This initiative stands out because it not only trains youths but also provides them with start-up kits. Many organizations stop at the training stage, but CRK goes further, ensuring graduates are ready to begin earning immediately,” he noted.
Mr. Lusweti added that the county has adopted a similar approach, distributing start-up kits to over 2,500 recent graduates to help them kickstart their careers and small businesses.
CRK Programmes Manager, Stephine Baraza, said the organization has trained and equipped 945 youths since 2018.
“Our follow-up evaluations show significant improvement in the lives of the beneficiaries. Some have become trainers themselves, while others are now supporting their families,” she said, adding that CRK is exploring ways to expand the programme.
By Isaiah Nayika
