The Senate Committee on Education has urged county governments to allocate more resources toward Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) to absorb learners who fail to secure university placements.
During a sitting in Trans-Nzoia County, the committee—led by Nominated Senator Betty Batuli—expressed concern over the low university absorption rates across several counties, saying the trend should alarm all education stakeholders.
“It is worrying that less than 20 percent of students in Trans-Nzoia proceed to university. More focus should be directed to VTCs to enable those unable to join universities to acquire technical skills and develop meaningful careers,” said Margaret Kamar, the committee’s vice-chairperson.
Senator Batuli noted that at least 60 percent of learners in Trans-Nzoia County can only be accommodated in vocational institutions due to limited university slots. She pointed out that the county has only one national polytechnic, which cannot absorb the growing number of high school graduates.
“We urge the county government to invest more in infrastructure and human capital to strengthen vocational education,” Batuli emphasized.
Despite these challenges, the senators commended Trans-Nzoia County for making commendable strides in the education sector, particularly in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE).
Senator Johnes Mwarume of Taita Taveta lauded the county for constructing 123 ECDE classrooms in the past three years and for placing 791 out of 992 ECDE teachers on permanent and pensionable terms.
“We applaud the county for prioritizing early childhood education and improving teacher welfare,” Mwarume said.
The committee also praised the county leadership for ensuring that each of the 25 wards has at least one vocational training center, bringing the total number of VTCs in Trans-Nzoia to 32.
Governor George Natembeya told the committee that the Ukombozi Milk Programme has significantly boosted ECDE enrollment, nutrition, and learner retention. Enrollment numbers have risen from 37,813 to 42,152 learners since the program’s introduction.
Natembeya, however, cited a shortfall of 695 ECDE teachers and pledged to address the deficit progressively based on the county’s staffing plan. He also raised concerns about delayed exchequer disbursements, which he said disrupt academic calendars.
The governor highlighted ongoing partnerships with development organizations, including Tools to Work (Netherlands), KCB Foundation, Safaricom, and NITA, as well as collaboration with the TVET Authority to enhance curriculum alignment, mentorship, and industrial attachments.
“These partnerships have been vital in equipping our VTCs with modern tools and resources to prepare our youth for a competitive job market,” Natembeya noted.
The Senate committee pledged to continue advocating for increased national and county funding to strengthen vocational and technical education as a key pillar in addressing youth unemployment and supporting Kenya’s economic growth.