Nairobi : Gacami, Othaya Sub-County: Nestled in the remote town of Gacami, the Rukira Vocational Training Institute (VTC) has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding its previous struggles and emerging as a hub for leather production in Nyeri County. Two years ago, the 68-year-old institution faced declining enrollments in its artisan courses, but a substantial investment from the Nyeri County government changed its fate.
According to Kenya News Agency, the county government injected Sh13 million worth of equipment into the institution, establishing a leather shoe production facility. This initiative marked the inception of Nyeri County's first cottage industry specializing in leather products. The vocational center has since trained approximately 80 youths in leather works, providing them with employable skills.
Lawrence Magashi, the manager of Rukira VTC, highlighted the institute's new role in the community, attracting youths who were previously idle. The leather department's visibility has grown, and locals have been encouraged to enroll and gain skills in shoe making and crafting other leather products. The first trainees received free training, and the initiative has contributed to the community's development.
The institute's proximity to educational institutions in the county has also proved beneficial. Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) centers, primary, and secondary schools have become major clients, placing orders for school shoes. The revenue from shoe sales supports the institution, offering quality shoes at competitive prices.
Despite the financial success, Magashi emphasized that the primary goal remains skill development. Currently, about 30 trainees are enrolled in the leather technology course. Jeremiah Wanjiru, a Grade III student, sees the trade as a path to entrepreneurship, while Maureen Muthoni, one of the few female students, aims to start her own business in fashion and design.
The Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute reports that the leather industry contributes 17 million jobs annually. The Ministry of Cooperatives projects the industry's value to reach Sh100 billion by 2040, with production capacity increasing significantly. However, Magashi notes that attracting youths to vocational courses remains challenging due to perceived difficulties.
To combat this, Mary Karaba, Principal Education Officer for Othaya sub-county, mentioned efforts to popularize vocational training and encourage university-bound students to consider VTCs. Successful students receive tools to start their businesses, benefiting individuals like teenage mothers who gain essential skills.
Consolata Njai, a leather technology trainer, shared that many alumni have successfully integrated into the juakali sector or found employment in various leather industries. She encourages youth to consider artisan courses, highlighting the marketability and employment potential in the leather sector.