Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has highlighted the rapid growth of vocational training in the county, saying more young people are turning to technical skills as a way of building careers and businesses.
Nyong’o said enrolment at the Rotary Vocational Training Centre in Kisumu City has increased significantly, rising from about 150 students in 2022 to roughly 2,500 trainees.
He said the growth shows a changing attitude towards technical and vocational education, with more young people recognising practical skills as an alternative path to employment.
The Rotary Vocational Training Centre offers courses in areas such as electrical engineering, masonry, plumbing, fashion and design, and information and communication technology.
Nyong’o said the skills gained through these programmes can help graduates secure employment or start their own businesses.
The governor noted that the increasing number of trainees has also created pressure on the available facilities. Demand for places at the centre is now higher than its current capacity.
He said Kisumu County would need to expand workshops and classrooms while increasing the number of instructors to accommodate more students.
Partnerships have also helped improve equipment and facilities at vocational centres across the county. Some departments have introduced income-generating activities to give trainees practical experience.
Nyong’o also highlighted plans to strengthen digital skills training at Katito Vocational Training Centre through Digital Literacy and Digital Hubs.
The facilities are expected to give young people access to computers, online learning, research and digital services.
The governor said the county's focus is to equip young people with practical skills that can help them earn a living and reduce reliance on formal employment.