- Residents of Kaplelartet Ward say the proposed institution would bring technical training closer to local youth.
- They argue that learners currently travel long distances to access technical and vocational education opportunities.
- The residents want authorities to provide a clear implementation timeline following consultations on the proposed project.
Residents of Kaplelartet Ward in Soin/Sigowet Sub-County, Kericho County, have challenged authorities to actualise the proposed Kaplelartet Technical Training Institute (TTI).
The residents observed that the project has remained a long-standing need for the community.
The residents said the absence of a technical training institution in the area has forced families to send their children to institutions located more than 100 kilometres away.
They argued that the proposed TTI would bridge the skills gap among local youth while opening up new economic opportunities for the community.
Vivian Kiptai, who spoke on behalf of the residents, said there was overwhelming support for the project and urged authorities to move quickly from planning to construction.
“We fully support the project and are urging the relevant department to urgently commence its construction. Our young people need a technical training institution within their reach,” Kiptai said.
She said the institution would have economic benefits beyond education by attracting businesses and creating employment opportunities once operational.
Brenda Koech, a building and construction graduate, said the project was long overdue and could provide opportunities for skilled professionals who have struggled to secure employment.
“This project is long overdue. I am a building and construction graduate, but I have missed employment for many years after graduation,” Koech said.
Koech said the institution would provide a platform for young people to gain practical skills and potentially create employment for graduates in the area.
The residents, however, warned political leaders against politicising the project, insisting that development initiatives should benefit the entire community regardless of political affiliations.
They said they would strongly oppose any attempt to use the TTI project for political mileage or to delay its implementation.
Community wants clear implementation timeline
The calls come as local leaders and stakeholders continue with public participation on the proposed institution. A recent exercise at Emdit AIC brought together residents and stakeholders to discuss the project and provide feedback as planning progresses.
The proposed TTI is part of broader efforts to expand access to technical and vocational education and training, particularly for young people seeking practical and marketable skills.
Residents said road improvement projects in the area would also complement the institution by making it easier for students to access the facility once completed.
The Kaplelartet SDA Church–Emdit Primary School Road and Mutwot–Emdit Road are among routes that have benefited from road improvement works.
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The residents are now calling for a clear implementation timeline, saying they have participated in consultations and expressed their support and only want to see the long-awaited project take off.
“The community has waited long enough. What we need now is action and construction,” the residents said.
By Kimutai Langat
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