A total of 824 students who completed technical training courses across various Vocational Training Centres in Trans Nzoia received certificates during a grand graduation ceremony.
The ceremony united graduates from all 32 VTCs in the county—at least one in each sub-county—who had successfully completed technical courses such as Garment Making, Food Production & Services, ICT, Agribusiness, Electrical Installation, Motor Vehicle Mechanics, Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy, Metal Processing Technology, and Building Technology.
Governor George Natembeya, who attended the event as chief guest, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting technical education, describing it as a crucial pillar in tackling unemployment and enhancing youth productivity.
He emphasised that increasing capitation funding from Ksh. 2,000 to Ksh. 13,000 per student had boosted enrolment by 20%, raising the current total to 4,000 students, with a goal of reaching 10,000 in the near future.
“This is not just a graduation ceremony; it makes a bold statement that Trans Nzoia is serious about building a future grounded in skills, innovation, and productivity,” Governor Natembeya declared.
To enhance training quality, the county government, in collaboration with a development partner, supplied equipment worth Ksh. 15 million, with more expected before the end of the year.
The Governor also unveiled plans to establish model centres and specialise certain VTCs to meet specific market needs more effectively.
With 111 instructors currently employed and 120 volunteers supporting the centres, Natembeya acknowledged the pivotal role trainers play in shaping students’ futures.
He also announced that the county has set aside funds to employ 133 new instructors, prioritising long-serving volunteers for the positions.
“Volunteers have kept the spirit of technical training alive. It’s now time to recognise and absorb them,” he asserted.
The Governor encouraged graduates to form groups, register business names, and seize opportunities available under the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) programme.
He pointed out that such groups could benefit from the Nawiri Fund, which aims to support 350 groups this year. Additionally, the county will provide start-up kits to help graduates launch their businesses immediately.
Despite the progress, the Governor acknowledged that VTCs still face considerable challenges, including limited land, negative public perception, inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of technical staff, insufficient equipment and learning materials, and erratic funding.
He noted that the county is reviewing its VTC policy, with reforms designed to tackle these challenges and unlock the full potential of vocational training.
To reduce stigma and attract more young people, the county has intensified awareness campaigns, subsidised tuition fees, and implemented initiatives such as the MoU with Tools to Work—a project that provides students with tools upon completing their training.