By Mercy Buyanzi
An increase in capitation funding from Ksh. 2,000 to the current Ksh. 13,000 per student in Trans Nzoia Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) by the County Government has led to a 20 percent increase in enrollment.
Governor George Natembeya on Thursday stated that his government has prioritised technical skills development to enhance self-employment.
The Governor made these remarks at Kitale School during the first graduation ceremony of all Trans Nzoia Vocational Training Centres (VTCs).
In collaboration with a donor, the Governor said his government had provided equipment worth Sh. 15 million to the centres to aid in training.
An additional consignment, he noted, will be delivered before the end of the year.
He appreciated the work done by the instructors in the centres and pledged that his government will soon hire more instructors to enhance the quality of training.
“Priority will be given to instructors who have been volunteering,” said Natembeya.
The Governor advised the graduates to register business names in groups and apply for AGPO tenders, which he said will be funded through the Nawiri Fund.
He noted that this initiative would help the graduates become economically empowered.
He further added that his Department of Trade will this year fund 350 groups through the Nawiri Fund.
A total of 824 students graduated in various courses, including Garment Making, Food Production & Services, ICT, Agribusiness, Electrical Installation, Motor Vehicle Mechanics, Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy, Metal Processing Technology, and Building Technology.
