At least 137 skilled youth in plumbing, hairdresing, beauty therapy, garment making and masonry graduated from Soy Sub-County’s Kiwato Vocational Training Centre on Wednesday.

Governor Jonathan Bii on Wednesday presided over the first 1st graduation and thanksgiving ceremony for Vocational centre.

Speaking at the event, Governor Bii said the dedication of the graduands offers a shining example of links between diligence and entrepreneurship.

He also challenged the graduating youth to take advantage of the ongoing major infrastructural projects under the Kenya Kwanza administration.

You’re now in a job market where skills are pivotal for societal advancement. Plumbing, masonry among others play an integral role amid projects in affordable housing across the 47 counties,” the Governor said

“I encourage you to seize the opportunity and make a difference in society,” he added.

The County chief went further to tell the graduands that “your skills will not only secure job opportunities but also empower entrepreneurial ventures.”

Among the projects the Governor says will provide a job opportunity for the graduands include the proposed Eldoret Railway City, Eldoret Industrial Park and the Export Processing Zone (EPZ).

This class sets a pivotal precedent for future students, as pioneers, showcasing our commitment to excellence in evolving vocational education – skills that are key in today’s job market,” Governor Bii said.

County Executive Committee Member for Education and Vocational Training, Anthony Sitienei, hailed the progress that Kiwato Vocational Training Centre had made since its inception.

He further said challenges that the institution is facing will be addressed by the county.

The challenges that have been raised, we will discuss as a county and see how best to handle them,” Sitienei said.

On her part, Chief Officer for Education and Vocational Training Marion Birgen said “We hope what Kiwato has done will also be replicated in all our VTCs to ensure the students we train get training, graduate and get into the job market.”

County Executive Committee Member for Trade and Cooperatives Eng. Martha Cheruto, Chief Officer for Land Nathan Korir, Director’s Phyllis Lagat (Vocational Training), Joel Ruto (Revolving Fund) Deputy Director Stephen Kemoi (Vocational Training) attended the graduation.