Kisumu County has intensified its investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), committing Ksh18 million to modern tools and equipment across 28 vocational training centres in a move aimed at empowering youth with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
Speaking during a graduation ceremony at Manna Vocational Training Institute in Seme, Deputy Governor Dr. Mathews Owili said the initiative forms part of a broader county strategy to bridge the technical skills gap and promote self-reliance among young people.
“Manna Vocational Training Institute exists for a purpose—to provide accessible, affordable and quality vocational education to young people who might otherwise face exclusion due to financial hardship, geographic barriers or limited opportunities,” Dr. Owili said.
He noted that Kisumu’s focus on vocational education is transforming lives by offering an alternative to traditional academic pathways while equipping trainees with industry-relevant, hands-on competencies.
“By ensuring our students train with industry-standard resources, we are guaranteeing that our youth graduate with practical and market-ready skills,” he added.
Tribute to Visionary Leadership
Dr. Owili paid tribute to Dr. Maurice Odindo, the Founding Director of Manna Ministries International, praising his leadership and dedication in establishing the institute and nurturing opportunities for disadvantaged youth.
“Your vision and steadfast commitment have inspired change, offered hope and fostered a culture where our youth can thrive with dignity,” he said.
The deputy governor also highlighted what he termed the “Manna Effect”—the positive ripple of empowerment seen in alumni who have gone on to become entrepreneurs, employers and community change-makers.
“This ripple effect proves that when specialised skills meet genuine opportunity, the entire community rises,” Dr. Owili remarked.
Call for Youth to Become Job Creators
The ceremony attracted a high-profile audience, including Roots Party Leader Prof. George Luchiri Wajackoya, who commended the county’s investment in technical education and urged graduates to use their skills to transform the local economy.
“The future belongs to those who can create, innovate and solve real problems,” Prof. Wajackoya told the graduates.
“A nation built on skills will never go hungry. Our youth must be at the centre of Kenya’s transformation—not as job seekers, but as job creators.”
He lauded Manna Vocational Training Institute for nurturing innovation and talent, noting that technical skills remain the backbone of national growth and productivity.
Sustained Support for TVET
Also present were Kisumu County Executive for Finance and Planning George Okong’o and other senior county officials, who pledged continued support for vocational institutions through increased funding and improved infrastructure.
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Owili urged them to uphold values of discipline, integrity and service as they transition into the workforce.
“This is your turning point. Your skills are not just certificates—they are passports to innovation, resilience and contribution,” he said.
The colourful ceremony marked both the achievements of the graduating class and Kisumu County’s renewed commitment to technical education as a driver of social and economic transformation.
With sustained investment in TVET and strengthened partnerships between government, private institutions and community organisations, Kisumu is positioning itself as a regional hub for skills development, innovation and inclusive growth.
