Trans Nzoia County Director for Vocational Training, Mr. Eliud Lusweti, has warned that with Tuwan ward holding one of the highest populations in the county, a lack of access to skills-based training could lead to a rise in insecurity. “We are sitting on a time bomb,” Lusweti stated. “Empowering youth with technical skills is no longer optional—it is an urgent necessity.”

Addressing stakeholders at the Kitale Vocational Training Centre’s Annual General Meeting urged unified efforts to address youth unemployment in Tuwan Ward through technical skills training.

Mr Lusweti applauded the efforts by the administration of H.E. Governor George Natembeya for increasing student capitation funds to the Vocational Training Centre’s from KSh 2,000 to KSh 13,000 per student and for increasing the budget for vocational centers from KSh 7 million to KSh 45 million for the 2025–2026 financial year. He further revealed that the county plans to offer startup toolkits to every graduate in all 32 vocational centers across Trans Nzoia, a program successfully rolled out during the county’s first-ever graduation ceremony.

The director also announced the county’s commitment to hiring 133 permanent and pensionable trainers in the upcoming fiscal year, ensuring that staff shortages don’t slow the momentum of vocational learning.

The area Member of County Assembly for Tuwan Ward, Hon. Francis Obingo “Daddy” Were, echoed Lusweti’s concerns and reaffirmed his support for the Centre’s development. Were highlighted infrastructural improvements under his tenure—including a twin classroom—and promised to push for further enhancements like a perimeter wall and dining hall.

He emphasized the real-world relevance of technical training: “Whether it’s construction, plumbing, beauty, or electrical work, there are countless job opportunities both locally and abroad. Youth with skills have a competitive edge in today’s world.”

Board Chair Mr. Washington Ngesa also weighed in, stressing the need for practical experience, modern equipment, and well-trained instructors. He called for increased investments to ensure that vocational training graduates are job-market ready.

The AGM concluded with a collective call to parents, local leadership, and civil society: rally behind vocational training, remove the stigma, and empower a generation of youth to become economically self-sufficient.

The event, held at the institution’s grounds, brought together county leaders, local representatives, parents, the institutions alumina and vocational trainers in a spirited show of support for transformative education.

The AGM also witnessed the commissioning of two changing rooms for the Kitale Vocational Training Centre security officers, constructed with support from the parents and the Board of Management.