KAKUMA — Turkana Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus has urged county-owned Technical and Vocational Colleges (TVCs) to align their training programs with local economic activities and job opportunities.
Speaking at the Cradle Hotel in Kakuma during a two-day forum on the County Vocational Education Strategic Plan, Dr. Erus warned that failing to adjust to market needs leaves graduates struggling to secure employment or start successful businesses.
He noted that joint research conducted by the county and key stakeholders identified several high-potential value chains for wealth creation, including fishing, livestock processing, renewable energy (wind and solar), and extractive industries.
“I would be very surprised if institutions like Kalokol and Kataboi fail to offer programs in boat making, net repair, and cold-chain handling to strengthen the area’s dominant blue economy,” Dr. Erus said.
He urged the Directorate of Vocational Training to ensure the Strategic Plan addresses evolving skill requirements, linking the initiative to the national discourse on ‘The Kenya We Want by 2060,’ spearheaded by President William Ruto.
“I am satisfied that the plan provides for market alignment,” Dr. Erus added. “Failure at the implementation stage means TVCs will continue producing graduates unable to keep pace with Turkana’s economic growth.”
Turkana operates eight functional TVCs under the TVET CDACC system, training technicians, technologists, and artisans. The forum supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) via the PROSPECTS project brought together county officials, development partners, and the County Assembly Committee on Education and Sports.
ILO Kenya Chief Technical Advisor Carolyne Njuki highlighted past successes, including supporting the Lodwar Vocational Training Center with cobblestone paving technology used to upgrade the Lodwar Fresh Produce Market. She pledged continued support in tracking labor market trends.
Dr. Lawrence Odollo, an ILO consultant who guided the Strategic Plan, praised the initiative as a crucial step for local youth, noting that a clear strategy ensures the county gets vocational training right.
Director of Vocational Training Stephen Eregae appealed to County Assembly members present for the necessary budgetary support to implement the plan successfully.
