Technical schools record low enrollment in Naivasha

The Naivasha Technical and Vocational College which was completed three years ago, but its yet to tap its full potential despite been equipped with Sh100m worth of equipment. Lack of hostels in the facility and accessibility have been the main challenges currently facing the institution. [Antony Gitonga, Standard]

The number of youths seeking enrolment at technical institutions in Naivasha is on the decline despite the low fees charged by government institutions.

According to Naivasha Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Josiah Odongo, the trend was worrying despite the increasing demand for skilled labour in the area. 

Odongo lamented that institutions, such as one located in Longonot, which is equipped with state-of-the-art technical training equipment, continued to attract few students.

The DCC has now directed local government administration officers, including Chiefs and their assistants, to mobilize and sensitize eligible youths to enroll in these institutions.

He said that taking advantage of the cutting-edge training offered would significantly boost the youths' chances of securing jobs in Naivasha, which is experiencing growing investment that demands technical skills.

The DCC expressed concern over the lack of technical skills among local youths, which had kept them from seizing new job opportunities such as plumbing among other skills.

He reiterated that the skills gained through technical training would also help them secure job opportunities at government-led initiatives like the ongoing Affordable Housing projects in various regions.

In addition, the government had approved the prior learning policy that accredits and formalizes technical skills acquired from informal setups such as Jua Kali.

The policy targets thousands of youths with technical skills but lacks certifications for the knowledge to enable them to benefit from local and international job opportunities.

Meanwhile, Odongo assured the public of the government's preparedness for the secure administration of the upcoming national exams, scheduled from October 28 to November 22.

He confirmed that students set to sit for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KIPSEA) and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams had already completed their rehearsals.