Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Graduates have been challenged to take advantage of the free international labour movement to export their skills to new frontiers
Speaking during the first graduation ceremony for Baringo Technical College, Principal Secretary in the State Department of Vocational and Technical Training (VTT) Dr Margaret Mwakima, noted that the entire East Africa Community for example has initiated a free movement where TVET graduates can capitalize from the various opportunities that are available.
Mwakima said that the labour market in vocational and technical fields is remitting back to home counties and contributing to social economic development.
She stated that this opportunity combined with a prior learning policy framework which her department intends to roll out soon, will see skillful practitioners get international recognition in their line of duties.
“Graduands go out there and take advantage of what the government has invested for your own posterity,” she said.
Mwakima at the same time urged all TVET principals and board of management to plan for modalities of ensuring that their institutions are well branded so as to attract more students ready to pursue market-oriented courses that are helpful at a time when white collar jobs are hard to come by.
She said that the dignity of TVET institutions must be restored through collaborations with other stakeholders so that the learners get the requisite knowledge and skills that are at par with the ever-changing market.
Baringo County Commissioner Abdirisack Jaldesa in his remarks underscored the need to have technical skills stating that there is wealth in the sector compared to the ever scarce white collar jobs.
Jaldesa stated that technical skills are crucial now that the country continues to implement flagship projects and programmes under the country’s Vision 2030 strategy.
Chief Principal Josphat Kipkemboi said his institution established 1985 has experienced tremendous growth with the current student population standing at 3,031 engaging 54 academic programmes.
Kipkemboi said the college prides itself for overseeing the first 975 graduands who completed diploma and certificate courses in the various technical courses.
He urged the graduands who are entering the job market during a time when the world is faced with global economic challenges to invest in their personal development by identifying opportunities that can bring change.
David Kipkemei, VTT Secretary Administration requested for at least one mega flagship project that will expand the institution established by the late former President Daniel Arap Moi.
Kipkemei also challenged parents and local leaders to promote the institution by advocating for more enrolment from Baringo residents so that they can benefit from technical skills that will in turn transform their society.
During the ceremony which was also attended by Technical Education director Tom Mulati, the PS for Vocational Technical Training commissioned the college’s new medical facility which will greatly boost the accessibility of health services.
By Benson Kelio and Joshua Kibet
