Kisumu – Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has launched a new initiative to strengthen vocational training centers across the county, pledging infrastructure support for international partners focused on equipping youth with practical skills.
Speaking at the official unveiling of a revamped motor vehicle mechanics department at Akado Vocational Training Center in Kisumu East, Nyong’o emphasized the county’s commitment to technical and vocational education as a long-term solution to unemployment.
“When we invest in skills, we invest in an assured future of productivity,” the governor stated. “But this can only be achieved through collaboration.”
The new program is a joint effort with Comundo, a Swiss-based organization working to enhance trade skills in underserved regions. Marc Bloch, the group’s country director, said the initiative is in line with Kenya’s national push to expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for global competitiveness.
“We support these centers with technical experts who train alongside students, delivering practical, market-oriented education,” Bloch explained during the event.
At Akado, Comundo has outfitted the training center with updated tools and facilities to support mechanical training. In Kisumu West, the group has also introduced aquaculture instruction at Sabako Vocational Training Center, focused on teaching modern fish farming methods to students and the surrounding Lake Victoria community.
Bloch said the goal is to eventually elevate selected training centers to “Centers of Excellence,” each specializing in targeted professions based on local demand and economic potential.
County officials say the program directly addresses youth unemployment. Bovince Ochieng, Chief Officer for Education, Technical Training, Innovation, and Social Services, said the county is committed to expanding the reach of vocational training.
“We are equipping VTCs in each of our eight sub-counties to give every young person access to skills that can create livelihoods,” Ochieng said.
Pascalia Ouma, the County Director for Technical Training, Innovation, and Social Services, urged parents and communities to support TVET enrollment. “Even when jobs aren’t available, with the right skills, youth can create their own,” she said.
The partnership comes as counties across Kenya seek ways to bridge the gap between education and employment. Nyong’o said Kisumu is open to more collaborations that will help modernize its training infrastructure.
Comundo’s involvement reflects a shift toward community-based, skills-focused education models that blend training with practical application a direction that local leaders hope will prepare youth for both self-employment and entry into the labor market.
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