Trans Nzoia County is ramping up efforts to address youth unemployment through a strategic focus on vocational and technical training, amid growing concerns over the socioeconomic implications of idle youth in densely populated areas such as Tuwan Ward.
Speaking during the Annual General Meeting at the Kitale Vocational Training Centre, County Director for Vocational Training, Eliud Lusweti, issued a stern warning, describing the region’s youth bulge as “a ticking time bomb” if not urgently addressed through skills development.
“Empowering young people with technical skills is not just an option,it is an imperative,” Lusweti asserted.
He urged stakeholders to form a united front in confronting the twin challenges of joblessness and under-skilling, particularly in urban wards grappling with high youth populations.
Lusweti lauded the administration of Governor George Natembeya for substantially increasing investment in vocational education. Student capitation has been boosted from KSh 2,000 to KSh 13,000 per learner, while the county’s vocational training budget has surged from KSh 7 million to KSh 45 million for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.
In a move aimed at enhancing self-reliance among graduates, the county has also rolled out a program to distribute startup toolkits to learners completing courses at all 32 vocational training centres—a milestone first launched during the county’s inaugural graduation ceremony.
Further strengthening the vocational ecosystem, Lusweti revealed that 133 permanent and pensionable trainers will be hired in the next financial cycle to address long-standing staffing gaps and ensure continuity in training delivery.
Tuwan Ward MCA, Hon. Francis Obingo “Daddy” Were, echoed Lusweti’s sentiments, reiterating the urgency of equipping youth with market-relevant skills. He outlined infrastructural gains achieved under his watch, including the construction of a twin classroom, and pledged to advocate for additional upgrades such as a perimeter wall and dining facilities.
READ ALSO:
“From construction to cosmetology, and from plumbing to electrical installation, technical skills open doors to both local and international job markets,” said Were.
Board Chair Washington Ngesa also addressed the forum, emphasising the critical need for hands-on training, access to modern equipment, and investment in qualified personnel. He called for enhanced funding and public-private partnerships to elevate the quality and competitiveness of vocational education in the county.
The AGM concluded with a resounding call to action directed at parents, community leaders, and civil society organisations: to destigmatise vocational training and rally behind the transformative power of technical education in reshaping the future of Trans Nzoia’s youth.
The event drew a cross-section of stakeholders, including county officials, educators, alumni, parents, and local leaders, all united in their support for vocational learning.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
