Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) at Risk if CDF Cease Operation.
Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) across the country could experience substantial difficulties if the court ruling that halted the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) remains in effect until its potential discontinuation on June 30, 2026.
The CDF has been a vital financial resource for students in VTCs, acting as a lifeline for institutions that do not benefit from Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funding.
Without these essential funds, many financially disadvantaged learners may lose their opportunity to gain important job market skills.
VTCs have historically depended on two key sources of funding: county government bursaries and CDF allocations, managed by Members of Parliament. The possible termination of CDF has raised concerns among educators, parents, and students regarding the future of vocational education.
Impact on Vulnerable Learners
Mr. Raphael Nyadenge, Principal of Ndere Vocational Training Center in Siaya County, emphasized his concerns about the court order’s effect on VTCs.
He explained that many vulnerable students would be severely affected if CDF is disbanded, as they depend on bursaries to continue their education.
Nyadenge highlighted that most students at VTCs come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and rely heavily on CDF bursaries to remain in school.
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“The disbanding of CDF will disadvantage many vulnerable learners who rely on bursaries. Their education will be in jeopardy,” Nyadenge said.
Nyadenge also pointed out the importance of changing public perceptions of VTCs. He argued that vocational institutions should be viewed with the same regard as other higher education institutions.
He noted that VTCs are often stereotyped as a fallback option for students who failed elsewhere, when in fact they play a crucial role in imparting essential skills in a world increasingly focused on skill-based employment.
Importance of Vocational Skills in the Job Market
Nyadenge’s appeal aligns with the rising demand for technical and vocational skills in the labor market. In light of high unemployment rates, VTCs provide essential training that prepares individuals for employment.
Nyadenge encouraged both young people and working professionals to consider enrolling in VTCs to either acquire new skills or improve existing ones, which could enhance their career opportunities and earnings.
Nyadenge stressed that the potential end of CDF funding comes at a challenging time for VTCs, which have been pivotal in delivering affordable technical education to many Kenyans.
With few alternative funding sources available, the future of both students and these institutions remains unclear.
Nyadenge called for the government to consider sustainable financing solutions to ensure that VTCs continue providing crucial skills training to young people, even if CDF support ends.
Stakeholders have also voiced their concerns, urging the government to explore long-term funding options to keep VTCs operational and maintain their role in equipping the nation’s youth with much-needed skills.
Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) at Risk if CDF Cease Operation.
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