Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has called for a thorough Senate investigation into the state of Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) in Vihiga County, citing concerns over mismanagement, underfunding, and lack of transparency in the education sector.
In a formal request to the Senate dated July 29, 2024, Osotsi urged the Standing Committee on Education to conduct an in-depth review of the county government’s expenditure on education over the past five financial years.
The senator wants a detailed breakdown of budget allocations and actual spending between 2019/2020 and 2023/2024, with a focus on Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE), bursaries, the Governor’s Scholarship Fund, and vocational centres.
Osotsi is also demanding answers on the current condition of VTCs and related institutions across the county. His statement requests a comprehensive schedule showing how capitation funds and training materials were distributed, alongside an audit of equipment received by each institution.
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A key area of concern is the welfare of VTC staff. The senator has asked for a month-by-month salary breakdown from 2019 to 2024, highlighting the status of statutory deductions and any salary arrears. He further seeks clarification on outstanding liabilities, including debts owed to suppliers.
The senator’s statement, which bears signatures and handwritten approvals, calls for urgent action to ensure better oversight and governance in the vocational training sector. He insists the county must outline steps it has taken or plans to take to improve funding and deliver quality, competency-based training for young people.
“Vocational education is critical for equipping our youth with practical skills, but it can only succeed with proper investment and accountability,” Osotsi noted.
The request is now before the Senate, with the Education Committee expected to table a detailed response in upcoming sessions. The outcome could set a precedent for how county governments manage vocational training institutions nationwide.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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