The enrollment in Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Eastern Kenya has surged by an impressive 1,000%, according to the region’s top government official. Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, speaking during a recent tour of government projects, emphasized the sharp rise in TVET programs’ popularity among youth and communities keen on acquiring technical skills. The commissioner noted that in some institutions, student numbers had grown exponentially from around 100 to as many as 4,500 in a short period.
“We are witnessing a significant demand for TVET education,” Rotich stated. “In one example, an institution that previously had an enrollment of around 100 students now serves 4,500 students. Another institution has grown to 3,700 students.” This phenomenal growth reflects the increasing awareness of the importance of technical skills in today’s job market, with more young people seeking education that can equip them with practical and marketable abilities.
Rotich was speaking to the press on Thursday while leading a delegation on a tour of various government projects, including the Konza Technopolis in Machakos County. The tour aimed to assess the progress and implementation of government development projects across the region. Among the projects visited were the 4,118-unit affordable housing project in Athi River, the Kinanie Leather Industrial Park EPZ, and the Konza City Special Economic Zone. Rotich also inspected the refurbishment of the Machakos County Commissioner’s offices.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring timely and successful delivery of these projects, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in their execution. “I assure the citizens that the work entrusted to us is taken seriously. Every penny invested in development projects will be accounted for, and we guarantee value for the money spent,” Rotich stressed.
His comments come at a time when some government projects have faced delays due to various challenges, including financial shortfalls and supply chain issues. However, Rotich expressed confidence that these hurdles would be overcome and the public’s expectations met. He also took the opportunity to warn against unnecessary delays and mismanagement, stating that all actors involved in these projects must uphold their responsibilities.
While touring the region, Rotich was accompanied by officials from various government departments, including those from Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s office. The field visits are part of an ongoing monitoring and evaluation process aimed at ensuring that projects are on track and meet the desired standards of quality and efficiency. According to Rotich, these visits have been largely positive, with many projects showing good progress despite some challenges.
One of the key obstacles mentioned was the financial flow for the completion of several projects. This, Rotich explained, had been particularly problematic in sectors such as agriculture and infrastructure development, where funding delays had hindered the procurement of inputs for farmers and slowed progress in road construction.
In the road sector, Rotich acknowledged that financing issues had led to delays in some key infrastructure projects. “The promises made by the government and the development plans are enormous. However, once we succeed in completing these projects, we will have fulfilled the public’s expectations,” he said. He also addressed the common perception that the government is not delivering on its promises, arguing that this was far from the truth. “The government has done a lot, and we intend to engage with the public more actively to showcase these achievements and dispel any misconceptions.”
Rotich emphasized that the monitoring process is designed to ensure that projects are completed on time and meet the required standards. He urged contractors to remain patient in the face of delayed payments, reassuring them that the government was committed to meeting its financial obligations. “While there may be some delays, I want to assure everyone that the government is determined to meet its promises,” he added.
The rapid expansion of TVET enrollment in Eastern Kenya is a testament to the increasing importance of technical skills in the country’s economy. As more young people enroll in these programs, the region is set to benefit from a more skilled workforce, better equipped to meet the demands of both local and international markets. The government’s continued investment in infrastructure, education, and economic development projects will be crucial in sustaining this growth and ensuring long-term prosperity for the region.
