BY ANGELA R. KIURA
Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku has urged Kenyan youth to embrace technical and vocational training as a pathway to employment and economic growth.
Speaking during the handover of a new college bus to Chuka Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College in Tharaka Nithi County, Ruku said the government is committed to equipping young people with practical skills to meet market demands.
“The President and his Deputy are delivering tangible development, and TVETs are the factories of the future workforce,” said Ruku.
The 62-seater bus, procured through the Chuka Igamba Ng’ombe NG-CDF, aims to ease transport for students and enhance access to hands-on training. The CS also announced the construction of 1,750 hostel units at the institution, expected to house over 4,300 students.
Ruku further revealed that 50 ICT labs have already been rolled out, with more underway. He said the National Youth Service (NYS) will double its intake from 20,000 in January 2025 to 40,000 by 2026 under a directive from President William Ruto.
“These efforts aim to empower youth with both technical expertise and discipline to become job creators,” he said, citing 40 Chuka TVET graduates recently employed in the UK and Europe as a result of Kenya’s labor export strategy.
The CS also highlighted ongoing development projects in Tharaka Nithi, including the Sh200 million Natasha Memorial Hospital, a Sh300 million market in Chuka, and roadworks on the Kibugua-Itugururu stretch. Huduma Centres in Chuka and Kathwana are also now operational.
He defended the Kenya Kwanza administration’s track record, noting resumed and new projects nationwide, and credited government policies for stabilizing the shilling and lowering inflation.
Accompanied by MPs Patrick Munene, Sabina Chege, Mugambi Rindikiri, and Gabriel Kagombe, Ruku urged the Mt. Kenya region to stay united and focused on development.
“This is more than a bus—it is a vision for youth empowerment and national progress,” he concluded.
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