A delegation from the Netherlands-based organisation Tools to Work arrived in Trans Nzoia County on Monday for a five-day impact assessment mission aimed at reinforcing its ongoing partnership with the County Government on vocational training.
Led by Director Peter Peek, the team is evaluating how equipment donated to vocational training centres over the past three years has enhanced youth skills development and improved training standards.
Sophi Elizabeth Kibuywa, Director of DECECE and the national liaison officer for the programme, commended Trans Nzoia for fully embracing the initiative.
“Our goal is to equip youths with practical skills that enable them to create employment. Already, graduates from Anderson Vocational Training Centre are working with DECECE, and their livelihoods have improved significantly,” she said.
Trans Nzoia County Director of Vocational Training, Eliud Lusweti, described the support as unprecedented.
“It’s been over 63 years since independence, and no organisation has supported vocational centres with tools at this scale. Over 400 sewing machines have been distributed to 32 centres, and instructors have been trained,” he said.
He added that more than 20 instructors have also been trained in machine repair and maintenance to ensure sustainability.
County Director of Early Childhood Education, Peter Omonya, said the intervention has revitalised vocational centres and called for similar support in ECDE institutions.
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“Children learn best through play. With 457 ECDE centres hosting about 42,000 learners, playing equipment would bring a major shift,” he noted.
Chief Officer for Education and Vocational Training, Mr. Kennedy Etiang, praised the programme for reinforcing hands-on skills training.
“During last year’s graduation, 68 top performers received start-up kits. This has reduced dropout rates and increased enrolment. As Kenya transitions from a purely academic system to technical skills development, this programme is preparing our youths for self-employment,” he said.
Etiang added that the rising interest in vocational training may soon call for expansion of existing centres to accommodate growing numbers.
Director of Administration in the department, Pius Munialo, emphasised the need for long-term maintenance.
“We must plan for repairs and servicing of tools. Establishing a centre of excellence will ensure machines remain functional for many years,” he said.
Representing Governor George Natembeya, CEC for Education Janerose Nasimiyu Mutama assured the delegation of transparency and proper distribution of equipment.
“Technical equipment is costly, but with Tools to Work on board, vocational training is transforming lives. Over 800 students graduated this year, and enrolment continues to rise because learners now have access to quality training tools,” she noted.
The Dutch delegation further revealed they are exploring expanded knowledge-transfer initiatives, including student exchange programmes.
Peek reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing the partnership.
“This partnership is about prosperity. Our visit aims to review equipment utilisation and explore sustainable maintenance solutions,” he said.
In the afternoon, the team toured Anderson Vocational Training Centre in Endebess Sub-County, witnessing firsthand how the donated equipment is transforming the lives of hundreds of trainees,a progress they applauded.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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