School leavers from Ruiru Sub County are hopeful to further their education after the opening of a 1,000 capacity Vocational Training center in Gatong’ora ward yesterday.
The Sh57 million center, the first such public institution in the populous constituency was constructed by the national government in collaboration with the area NG/CDF on seven acres surrendered by the community.
Speaking during its opening, area MP Simon King’ara said at least 100 new students have enrolled for lessons which are set to begin later this month.
He said the institution will be run by Kabete National Polytechnic in Nairobi before being taken over by a local management board.
King’ara called on the school leavers willing to take up technical skills to enroll at the facility to equip them with skills to earn.
Among the courses to be trained at the institution include mechanics, welding, electronics, plumbing and computer courses among others.
“Our youth and school leavers now have a chance to advance their skills by acquiring the necessary skills which shall enable them to get jobs or become self-employed,” he said.
The MP also commended President William Ruto for directing the equipping of the center to the tune of Sh100 million saying the facility will greatly boost the local economy in the near future.
He was accompanied by area Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Margret Mbugua who assured that security agencies will be on the alert to ensure that peddlers of harmful substances are kept off the institution and asked locals to co-operate.
The Kabete National Polytechnic Principal Okumu Odhiambo called on the locals to take advantage of the institution and put up businesses saying it does not have hostels or kitchen facilities.
Residents led by Peter Karanja welcomed the initiative saying it will have a huge impact on the local economy.
By Muoki Charles
