By Alex Maina
For a long time, youth in rural parts of Uasin Gishu County have struggled in silence. They finish high school with dreams of learning a skill, becoming independent, or getting a job but those dreams often get delayed or lost. Why? Because the training centers that can help them are far away, mostly in towns.
Without nearby Vocational Training Centres (VTCs), young people face too many challenges.
They spend a lot of money on transport. Some have to travel over 14 kilometers every day just to attend classes. For many, this becomes impossible. Others are forced to skip morning or evening lessons because they can’t leave home early or return late due to insecurity. Girls are especially affected. Walking long distances early in the morning or late in the evening is unsafe. Some youth give up on education completely and are pushed into early marriages or casual labour. With nothing to do, others fall into drugs, crime, or hopelessness.
But things are changing.
In Ng’enyilel Ward, the establishment of Ng’enyilel Vocational Training Centre has brought hope. The Centre is already known as a Centre of Excellence in Building and Construction. It also offers other valuable courses like food and beverage, garment making, and hairdressing. Youth now have the chance to gain hands-on skills close to home.
“I used to travel to Eldoret town daily,” says Brian Kipkorir, a student now at Ng’enyilel VTC. “Most times I missed class because I didn’t have fare. But now, I walk 10 minutes to class, and I’ve never been happier.”
Grace Jepchirchir, another learner, shares her story:
“My parents couldn’t afford my transport to town. 400 shillings a day for transport is really expensive. I stayed home for a year before this center was opened. Now I’m doing garment making, and I believe I’ll start my own business soon.”
The new Kanenik VTC in Kiplombe Ward is also a big win for the community. It brings opportunity right to the doorsteps of youth who would have otherwise given up.
These centers are more than buildings they are lifelines.
They reduce costs, bring learning closer, offer safety, and give young people the power to change their lives. They bring dignity, purpose, and hope. Vocational training is not just education it is freedom.
