Uasin Gishu youth urged to join vocational training centres County expands education support

Youth in Uasin Gishu County have been encouraged to enroll in Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) to gain practical and technical skills that can help them secure employment and create self-reliance in an increasingly competitive job market.

Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim said vocational training remains one of the most effective pathways for empowering young people economically.

Speaking during the ongoing ward-level bursary disbursement exercise, he noted that many opportunities currently available in the labour market require technical competencies and hands-on expertise, adding that the county government is investing heavily in education and skills development to ensure local youth are not left behind.

“We are encouraging our young people to embrace vocational training because it equips them with practical skills that are directly linked to employment opportunities and entrepreneurship,” said Governor Chelilim. “Technical education is no longer a second option; it is a powerful avenue for building sustainable livelihoods.”

The governor spoke as hundreds of parents and students gathered to receive bursary cheques aimed at supporting learners from vulnerable and low-income households across the four wards.

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Governor Chelilim highlighted the development strides achieved by his administration over the past three years, particularly in the education sector, saying the county government has prioritized improving learning infrastructure from early childhood education to vocational training institutions.

“In just three years, Kipsomba Ward has witnessed tremendous progress across key sectors. We have completed several ECDE centres, including Mobet, Cheplaskei, Kapsumbeiywet, Kapchan, Teldet, Chemororoch, Kapngetuny, and Cheplelaibei, significantly improving access to early childhood education,” said the governor.

He added that similar progress had been recorded in Soy Ward.

“In Soy Ward, we have completed the Keith–Budalangi and Kongasis ECDE centres as part of our continued investment in quality education,” he said.

Governor Chelilim further observed that the county government has continued to register significant milestones in the education sector through expanded bursary allocations, construction of classrooms, support for vocational training centres, and enhancement of learning facilities.

He said the bursary programme would greatly ease the burden on parents struggling to raise school fees amid prevailing economic challenges.

“We understand the financial difficulties many families are facing. This bursary programme is intended to ensure that no learner is forced to stay at home because of lack of fees,” he said.

Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea emphasized the transformative role of education in society, noting that investing in learners is equivalent to investing in the future prosperity of the county.

“We want every child to have an equal opportunity to access education regardless of their background,” said Kapkea. “Education remains one of the most effective tools for transforming lives and uplifting communities.”

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County Executive Committee Member for Education Lucy Ng’endo said the bursary initiative has continued to make a meaningful difference for many students who would otherwise struggle to complete their studies.

“We are optimistic that this programme will continue empowering students to remain in school, excel academically, and eventually contribute positively to society,” she said.

Chief Officer for Education Eunice Suter reiterated the county government’s commitment to inclusive education and equitable access to learning opportunities.

“No needy child should miss education because of lack of school fees,” said Suter. “The county government remains committed to supporting vulnerable learners and ensuring that every child has a chance to succeed.”

During the exercise, bursary cheques were issued to more than 4,000 beneficiaries drawn from Soy, Kipsomba, Kiplombe, and Huruma wards.

The event was attended by several Members of the County Assembly, including Mary Goreti, Isaac Tamogei, and Gilbert Lagat.

Also present were County Secretary Phillip Meli and County Executive Committee Members Anthony Sitienei, Micah Rogony, Janet Kurgat, Robert Kemei, Serem, Edward Sawe, and Dr. Philip Chebunet.

Chief Officers in attendance included Ambrose Tarus, Eliud Kipkorir, Ruth Samoei, Marion Birgen, and CPA Victorine Kapkiyai.

Others present included Directors Peter Ruto, Phyllis Lagat, and Kiptanui Barno, alongside other county officials and local leaders.

The exercise targeted Soy, Kipsomba, Kiplombe, and Huruma wards in Soy and Turbo sub-counties.

By Kimutai Langat