Turkana County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Sports, and Social Protection, Willyjustus Lopeyok Akwalata, has called on the management of county-owned Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) to implement robust student recruitment programs aimed at increasing enrolment.
During a spot-check visit to various VTCs in Turkana South and Turkana East, Akwalata raised concerns over the low enrolment rates, which have significantly hindered the optimal utilization of available facilities. He emphasized the urgent need to encourage more youth to embrace vocational education as a pathway to economic empowerment and self-reliance.
"These facilities are well-equipped to provide practical skills that are crucial for employment and entrepreneurship. However, the low enrolment is a setback to the county’s vision of developing a skilled workforce. We need to be proactive in promoting these centers to the youth and their parents," Akwalata stated.
The CECM attributed the low enrolment to factors such as lack of awareness, misconceptions about vocational education, and competition from other learning institutions. He urged VTC management teams to engage local communities, conduct outreach programs, and collaborate with stakeholders to create awareness of the opportunities available at these centers.
Strengthening Vocational Training
Akwalata underscored the importance of vocational training in addressing unemployment among youth in Turkana County. He noted that with proper training in trades such as carpentry, tailoring, welding, and motor vehicle mechanics, young people could secure sustainable livelihoods and contribute to the county's economic growth.
To support the initiative, the CECM pledged the county government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure, providing adequate learning materials, and offering scholarships for disadvantaged students.
"We want to ensure that every young person in Turkana has access to quality vocational education. No one should be left behind due to financial challenges or other barriers," he said.
Call to Action
The county government is also exploring partnerships with local businesses, NGOs, and development agencies to strengthen the capacity of VTCs. These collaborations aim to improve training quality and link graduates to job opportunities in both local and national markets.
Akwalata called on the youth to take advantage of the affordable training opportunities provided by the county. He also appealed to parents and guardians to encourage their children to enroll in VTCs, noting that vocational skills are critical in today’s dynamic job market.
The CECM's visit was part of an ongoing effort to assess and revitalize the vocational education sector in Turkana. His recommendations signal a renewed focus on ensuring that VTCs play a central role in equipping the youth with practical skills for a brighter future.
With these efforts, the Turkana County Government hopes to increase enrolment and make vocational education a cornerstone of youth empowerment in the region.
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