Evans Nasiuma, an aspiring member of the county assembly for Nabiswa ward, said this practice prevents thousands of Form Four graduates from enrolling in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
"You cannot join a technical institute without your certificate. The withholding of documents is condemning many youths to a cycle of poverty," Nasiuma said during the launch of the Janerose Nasimiyu Mutama Foundation in Kitale.
He appealed to President William Ruto to implement policies that bar the school administrators from withholding certificates, enabling affected youth to pursue their educational aspirations.
He said Technical and vocational training is a critical pathway to addressing youth unemployment and poverty in Trans Nzoia County.
Nasiuma emphasized the urgent need to equip young people with practical skills through TVET institutions.
"Technical skills are increasingly vital in today's economy, especially for rural youth who face limited opportunities for formal employment," he said at the foundation launch.
The aspiring politician urged the county government and other stakeholders to increase investment in the TVET sector by improving infrastructure, providing bursaries for needy students, and ensuring all qualified students can access their academic documents.
"With proper support, TVET can be a game-changer in Trans Nzoia. We need skilled welders, electricians, mechanics, and ICT technicians — not just degree holders. Skills are the key to self-reliance," Nasiuma concluded.