The Senate Committee on Education has called on county governments across Kenya to significantly increase funding for Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) to accommodate the growing number of learners unable to secure university placements.
During a recent session in Trans-Nzoia County, the committee, led by nominated Senator Betty Batuli, expressed concern over alarmingly low university absorption rates and inadequate county investment in youth career development programs.
Trans-Nzoia County emerged as a key example of the challenges facing Kenya’s education sector, with fewer than 20 per cent of learners progressing to the university level. Senator Margaret Kamar, the committee’s vice-chair, emphasised the urgent need to redirect the focus to vocational education and training.
“It is worrying that less than 20 per cent in Trans-Nzoia transition to university,” Kamar stated. “More focus should be directed to VETs to enable those unable to join a university to secure slots and develop their careers in technical skills.”
Senator Batuli noted that at least 60 per cent of learners in Trans-Nzoia County would benefit from training at VTCs rather than traditional university education. However, the county currently operates only one national polytechnic, which cannot accommodate the high volume of students transitioning from high school to tertiary institutions.
“We urge the county to invest in infrastructure and human capital,” Batuli said, stressing that the transition of young people into the workforce is critical for economic development.
Despite concerns about the capacity of vocational training, the committee commended Trans-Nzoia County for its achievements in early childhood development education (ECDE).
READ ALSO:
Gretsa University postpones 16th graduation ceremony to November 18
Senator Johnes Mwarume of Taita Taveta praised the county’s construction of 123 ECDE classrooms over the past three years and the placement of 791 out of 992 ECDE teachers on permanent and pensionable terms.
The committee also recognised the county’s establishment of at least one VTC in each of its 25 wards, bringing the total to 32.
Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya told the committee that the county’s Ukombozi Milk Programme has significantly improved ECDE enrollment, nutrition, and learner retention. Enrollment figures have risen from 37,813 to 42,152 learners.
However, Natembeya acknowledged a shortfall of 695 ECDE teachers and pledged to address the gap progressively, in line with staff establishment guidelines. He also raised concerns about delayed exchequer releases from the national government, which he said have disrupted academic calendars.
County Education CEC Janerose Mutama outlined several development partnerships aimed at enhancing vocational training capacity. The county has partnered with Tools to Work, based in Holland, to donate modern fabricated tools and equipment to VTCs.
Additional partners supporting the county’s education initiatives include the KCB Foundation, Safaricom, the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), and the national government’s Recognition of Prior Learning program. The county is also working with the TVET Authority on capacity building, curriculum alignment, mentorship programs, and industrial attachments.
The Senate Committee’s visit underscores the urgent need for counties to prioritise vocational and technical education as a viable pathway for youth who do not pursue university education.
With the majority of learners unable to access higher education, senators stressed that investing in VTCs is essential for developing a skilled workforce and driving economic growth at the county level.
The committee’s recommendations are expected to inform future budget allocations and policy decisions regarding technical and vocational education across Kenya’s 47 counties.
By Osborne Benn
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
