Girls in Mombasa County have been encouraged to enrol in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and pursue courses traditionally dominated by men, particularly those linked to the blue economy, as part of efforts to promote gender equality and expand economic opportunities.
The call was made during a career symposium held at Tononoka Social Hall, organised by the Mombasa County Department of Education in partnership with Colleges and Institutes Canada and the Akili Dada Organisation.
Speaking at the event, Mombasa County Director of Vocational Training Nancy Gathigia urged young women to challenge gender stereotypes by pursuing technical and vocational careers based on their interests and abilities rather than societal expectations.
“Our girls should not shy away from male-dominated courses and should understand that there are no specific roles for men or women in TVET institutions,” Gathigia said.
She emphasised that women are equally capable of excelling in technical fields and noted that increasing female participation in TVET programmes would help bridge the gender gap in industries traditionally perceived as male preserves.
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To support young mothers in continuing their education, Gathigia said the county government has established childcare facilities at Mtongwe Technical Vocational College and Kisauni Technical Vocational College. She added that plans are underway to expand the initiative to more TVET institutions across the county.
According to Gathigia, the childcare programme is designed to ensure that motherhood does not interrupt education and skills development, enabling more young women to complete their studies and improve their economic prospects.
“This childcare initiative is intended to ensure that motherhood does not hinder education and skills development, allowing more young women to complete their training and secure better economic opportunities,” she said.
Akili Dada Coast Regional Representative Elvina Kahindi also encouraged young people, particularly girls, to take advantage of career forums and training opportunities in the blue economy sector.
Kahindi said Akili Dada has partnered with Colleges and Institutes Canada through the Kenya Blue Economy Skills Training Programme to raise awareness about career opportunities in the sector and encourage more girls to enrol in TVET institutions offering blue economy-related courses.
She urged young women across the region to visit TVET institutions in Mombasa and register for available programmes, emphasising that the sector offers opportunities for everyone.
“Blue economy courses are not only for young men but for everyone. We want to see more girls enrolling in these programmes,” Kahindi said.
The symposium formed part of ongoing efforts by the county government and its partners to empower girls through technical education, promote gender inclusion in vocational training, and equip young people with skills needed to tap into the growing blue economy sector.
By our reporter
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