Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo has assented to the Vihiga County Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) Bill, 2025, paving the way for enhanced funding, improved governance and expanded opportunities for youth across the county.
The Bill was signed into law in the presence of Deputy Governor Wilberforce Kitiezo and members of the Vihiga County Assembly leadership, marking a significant boost to the operationalisation of vocational training centres (VTCs) in the county.
The legislation provides a clear legal framework for the management and financing of VTCs, which are key institutions in skills development and socio-economic transformation. Established under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2013, the centres have faced persistent challenges, including inadequate funding and limited training equipment.
Speaking during the assent ceremony, Governor Ottichilo said the new law addresses these gaps by guaranteeing structured funding for the centres, including adequate capitation and the acquisition of modern training equipment to support learners.
“The Bill provides for sustainable funding of our vocational training centres. This will ensure learners have access to sufficient resources and equipment to acquire relevant skills,” said the Governor.
He commended the County Assembly for fast-tracking the Bill, noting that it also opens up access to bursaries for VTC learners through a well-defined and transparent framework.
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“VTC learners will now be able to access bursaries in an organised manner. Further, the law allows centres to initiate income-generating and entrepreneurial activities that will not only supplement funding but also create self-employment opportunities,” he added.
The Bill is expected to strengthen the role of vocational training in addressing youth unemployment, promoting entrepreneurship and supporting local economic growth. County officials said the law aligns with Vihiga’s development priorities by empowering young people with practical, market-driven skills.
With the assent of the Bill, the county government is set to roll out implementation measures aimed at fully operationalising vocational training centres and positioning them as engines of skills development and economic empowerment in Vihiga County.
By Gofdrey Wamalwa
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