Low Enrollment Rates in Naivasha Technical Training Institutions Worry Authorities.
Naivasha Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Josiah Odongo has expressed concern about the low number of students enrolling in local technical training institutions, despite the rising demand for skilled labor in the region.
Odongo pointed out that institutions, such as one in Longonot, equipped with advanced technical training resources, are still struggling to attract students.
He instructed local government administrators, including chiefs and their assistants, to raise awareness and encourage eligible youths to enroll in these institutions to gain necessary technical skills for the market.
He emphasized that taking advantage of the modern training facilities could significantly enhance youths’ job prospects in Naivasha, where investments requiring technical expertise are growing rapidly.
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Odongo expressed disappointment over the lack of skills among local youths, which prevents them from seizing opportunities in fields such as plumbing.
Job Opportunities for Skilled Youth
The DCC reiterated that youths who acquire technical skills can also secure employment in government-led initiatives like the Affordable Housing projects currently underway in different parts of the country. He urged them to take advantage of these opportunities.
Last month, the Ministry of Education assigned 2,000 new trainers to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to address the trainer-student ratio and ensure that training meets market needs.
These trainers, deployed to 242 institutions, bring the total number of trainers to 9,351, serving a student population of 420,559, which is expected to rise to over 700,000 in the coming years.
TVET Expansion and Investment in Naivasha
This year marks 100 years of TVET institutions in Kenya. President William Ruto announced plans to enroll one million students in TVET institutions over the next five years, aiming to bridge the technical skills gap both for the local market and for export.
The government, through the Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA), has licensed several investors for multi-million shilling investments, which are expected to boost Naivasha’s economy.
Due to growing demand, the government has allocated an additional 5,000 acres, up from the initial 1,000 acres, in the Mai Mahiu area of Naivasha for these investments.
Already, three companies have begun their projects: a car auction company, an electric assembly, and a potato processing plant. These ventures are expected to create numerous formal and technical job opportunities for local residents.
Odongo highlighted the government’s approval of a prior learning policy that seeks to recognize and formalize technical skills acquired informally, such as in the Jua Kali sector. This policy targets thousands of youths with skills but without formal certification, enabling them to access both local and international job markets.
Upcoming National Examinations and Security Measures
On a separate note, Odongo assured the public that the government is well-prepared for the secure administration of national exams, scheduled from October 28 to November 22.
He confirmed that rehearsals for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KIPSEA) and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams have been completed.
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The DCC warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone caught distributing fake exam materials, adding that the government has put in place measures to ensure the integrity of the exams across all grades.
Additionally, Odongo praised the Nakuru County government for introducing the Uji feeding programme for lower primary students. He acknowledged that the initiative would help improve student attendance and retention in schools.
Low Enrollment Rates in Naivasha Technical Training Institutions Worry Authorities.
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