Mfangano Vocational Training Center (VTC)
The CEC Member for Education and ICT, Hon. Beatrice Asiago yesterday hosted the Chief Administrative Secretary for the Ministry of Education, State Department of Vocational Training Hon. Zack Kinuthia who officially handed over Mfangano Vocational Training Center (VTC) to the County Government.
Speaking to the press after the ceremony at the institution, the CAS acknowledged importance of technical institutions as platforms to prepare young people with skills for the ever-demanding job market.
He stated that the construction of the VCT started before devolution hence the National Government had to hand it over to the County Government for management since VTCs are devolved functions.
“The National Government disburses ksh.15, 000 to every student who enrolls in VTCs across the County. I am therefore urging residents of Mfangano to take advantage of the Government’s initiative and register for courses because they are affordable,” said Kinuthia.
The CEC Member, Hon. Asiago stated that the County Government is keen to improve vocational education ensuring that all the 40 wards within the County have a VTC.
She added that the County Government has made tremendous strides since the inception of devolution. Where the county has since inherited 18 VTCs from the National Government and currently has 30 VTCs.
“There were 8 instructors under permanent and pensionable terms and 34 on contract, today the County has 142 instructors,”
County Chief officer for Education, Mr. Wilfred Awuor disclosed that enrolment in VTCs have increased from 1844 students in 2013 to 3001 students currently.
“Some of the courses offered in the VTC include carpentry and joinery, building, fashion and design, plumbing, ICT among others. I therefore call upon youth to register for courses at the VTCs.”
Some of the officials who attended the event were the Deputy County Commissioner for Mbita Sub-county, Mr. Abraham Kemboi, Director VET, Eng. Mwaa Mutinda, stakeholders, county officials among others.