Vihiga: Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) in Vihiga County have been urged to reduce over-reliance on government funding by enhancing Institutional Generated Income (IGI). The County Executive for Education, Science, Technical and Vocational Training, Anne Desma, speaking during an engagement forum with VTC managers, directors of VTCs, and departmental leaders, emphasised the need to transform VTCs from traditional teaching centres into entrepreneurial and innovation hubs.
According to Kenya News Agency, Desma outlined key strategies to achieve this shift, including forging stronger partnerships with corporates and development partners, introducing market-driven short, evening, and weekend courses, as well as establishing vibrant production units such as carpentry, catering, tailoring, ICT, and metalwork.
The county executive also encouraged the promotion of 'earn-while-you-learn', which would allow trainees to gain practical experience while still generating some income. Rebranding of VTCs, she said, remains essential in boosting youth enrolment and building confidence in technical education.
At the same time, Desma reaffirmed Governor Dr Wilber Ottichilo's commitment to strengthening capitation for VTCs and rolling out the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum as part of ongoing reforms in the sector. She further challenged each VTC to identify its most viable trade for income generation, noting that innovation, accountability, and strong institutional leadership were vital for sustainability.
'With innovation, accountability and strong government support, our VTCs will become sustainable and better equipped to produce both skilled and self-reliant graduates,' she said.