TVET Colleges Are Urged To Enroll Makueni Youth

TVET Colleges Are Urged To Enroll Makueni Youth. In a dynamic display of innovation and talent, a Makueni County youth recently showcased their technical skills to Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr. and other county leaders during the first Makueni County Vocational Training Centres Skills Exhibition held at Springhill Kwakakulu County Technical Training Institute (CTTI) on September 19. The event highlighted the significance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in empowering the youth and preparing them for a competitive job market.

Governor Kilonzo emphasized the importance of TVET education in combating youth unemployment and fostering a skilled workforce that can drive economic development in the county. He urged young people to take advantage of the opportunities offered by these institutions to acquire practical skills that are in high demand.

Empowering Youth through Technical Education

The Governor’s call to action is timely, as Makueni County, like many regions in Kenya, faces challenges related to youth unemployment and underemployment. With traditional academic paths often failing to meet the practical needs of the job market, TVET institutions offer a promising alternative by equipping students with hands-on skills in various trades.

“We are going to empower these technical institutions to empower our youth and foster a skilled workforce that will contribute to the county’s economic development,” said Governor Kilonzo during the event. He further noted that increasing enrollment in these institutions could significantly reduce social ills caused by idleness and lack of employment opportunities.

Showcasing Talent and Innovation

The skills exhibition featured an impressive array of talents and innovations from the students, including tailoring, masonry, motor vehicle mechanics, and solar installations. These skills not only demonstrate the diverse capabilities of the youth but also highlight the potential of TVET institutions in nurturing entrepreneurship and self-employment.

Elizabeth Muli, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for ICT, Education, and Internship, commended the students for their efforts and encouraged more youths to join TVET institutions. “Our vocational training centers are playing a critical role in equipping young people with essential life skills. This exhibition is a testament to the creativity and innovation of our youth,” Muli remarked.

Growing Enrollment in TVET Institutions

The county’s efforts to promote TVET education are yielding positive results, as evidenced by the increasing enrollment numbers. According to Muli, over 4,000 students have registered in various CTTIs across Makueni County. This growth is attributed to several policy changes aimed at making these institutions more accessible and appealing to a broader demographic.

One such policy is the elimination of compulsory uniforms for older students. Muli explained that this decision has particularly benefited students over 30 years old, many of whom are parents or working individuals. “This has helped a lot, especially to students over 30 years. Some are parents and did not feel okay in uniform. There have been no more dropouts and many others have joined,” she said.

The Impact of TVET Education on Economic Development

TVET education has the potential to transform not just the lives of individual students, but the entire community. By providing practical skills training in areas such as agriculture, construction, and technology, these institutions prepare graduates to fill gaps in the labor market or even start their own businesses. This, in turn, contributes to the county’s economic growth and development.

Governor Kilonzo highlighted the need for continuous investment in TVET institutions to ensure that they have the necessary resources and infrastructure to provide quality training. “We are committed to enhancing the capacity of our vocational training centers to meet the needs of our growing student population,” he said.

Encouraging More Youth to Join TVET Colleges

As the demand for technical skills continues to rise, it is crucial for more young people to consider TVET education as a viable path to success. The Kenyan government, through various initiatives, is working to raise the profile of these institutions and make them a preferred choice for post-secondary education.

Parents, educators, and community leaders also have a role to play in encouraging youth to pursue technical training. Muli emphasized the importance of changing societal perceptions about vocational education and recognizing the value of skilled trades in building a sustainable future.

Conclusion

The Makueni County Vocational Training Centres Skills Exhibition was a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within the youth of the region. With the support of the county government and the dedication of institutions like Springhill Kwakakulu CTTI, young people are being given the tools they need to succeed in the job market and contribute to the county’s development.