Bomet: The Finlay Community Trust has funded the establishment of new Mechanical and Masonry Workshops at Sot Technical Training Institute in Merigi Ward, Bomet East Sub-County. The workshops, which represent a Sh10.1 million investment, are expected to significantly impact the technical skills training available to students.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sot TTI Principal Mr. Robert Cheres highlighted the transformative nature of this investment, stating that it is a major advancement for both the institution and the community. With over 690 students benefiting each year, the workshops aim to equip learners with practical skills essential for success in the competitive job market. Cheres expressed his gratitude, noting that the workshops will enhance training capacity and inspire confidence among students pursuing careers in mechanical and masonry fields. He emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between educational institutions and the private sector.
The Finlay Community Trust, funded by Browns Plantations Kenya and Finlay, focuses on empowering communities and promoting sustainable growth in Bomet and Kericho Counties. Ambassador Joshua Terer, Vice Chairperson of the Trust, spoke at the event, emphasizing the long-term impact of the project. He described the workshops as a bridge to opportunity, providing youth with practical skills that lead to employment and entrepreneurship.
Bomet County Deputy Governor Shadrack Rotich praised the investment as a strategic move for economic empowerment and youth development. He noted that the workshops are more than infrastructure; they represent a commitment to equipping young people with essential skills for self-reliance and employment, driving local economic growth.
The workshops are part of a larger initiative by the Finlay Community Trust to boost TVET education in Bomet and Kericho counties. Recently, the Trust completed a Civil Engineering Workshop at Chepseon Youth Polytechnic in Kericho County. As Kenya's TVET enrolment grows, the demand for technical training increases, highlighting the need for collaboration between government institutions and the private sector to address infrastructure challenges.
Beyond infrastructure, the Trust supports students through an annual TVET Scholarship Programme, aiding over 40 students, with graduates receiving a Sh50,000 toolkit to support their transition into the workforce. Since 2010, the Trust has invested over Sh320 million in 79 educational projects, aligning with Kenya's Vision 2030 and the Competency-Based Education and Training framework. These initiatives are vital for community empowerment and workforce development as Kenya advances towards industrialization and job creation.