South Imenti MP Dr Shadrack Mwiti has pleaded with parents in his constituency to take advantage of the Technical Vocational Education Training institutes to enhance skills development for their children.
Speaking during Yetu DT Sacco’s annual general meeting at Investment park, Nkubu, the MP, a firm believer in education and skill development, urged parents as well as learners to change the mindset that technical training is for those who failed in school.
He pointed out that the institutions are for those who want to succeed faster and build their futures with their own hands.
“We have various institutions in this constituency including Nkubu polytechnic, Mitunguu Technical Training institute which recently became a national polytechnic and we are also fast racking the opening of another institute at Igoji”, said Dr. Mwiti.
We can take our children to these institutions to brighten their future,” added Dr Mwiti.
He noted: “My dear parents and guardians, today I stand before you not just as your elected leader but as a father and a patriot who believes in the power of education, especially technical skills education.
“Our country is growing, industries are expanding, and opportunities are increasing, but our youth must be equipped with the right skills to take advantage of them,” said the legislator.
He urged residents to do away with the notion that success can only come through university education, yet there are countless graduates struggling to find jobs.
“For years, we have focused solely on universities, but today, I want us to rethink our approach. Skilled workers—electricians, welders, carpenters, mechanics, and IT technicians—are in high demand. Corporations and even the government are looking for skilled professionals, not just degree holders. That is why we are working hard to establish more technical Institutes right here in our constituency to give our children a chance to gain hands-on skills that will guarantee them jobs or even enable them to start their own businesses,” said Dr Mwiti.
He reminded them that a skilled welder or electrician can earn more than many office workers. A good mechanic is never out of work. A trained tailor can open a fashion business.
He said the government has subsidized fees for technical courses and that he was personally lobbying for bursaries for students from needy families.
If we want our children to benefit from these skills, he added, then we must ensure that they are not engaging in weird habits like imbibing illicit brews and guide our daughters to avoid behaviours that can lead to early pregnancies which will rob them opportunities in future.
By Dickson Mwiti
