A total of 179 students graduated from Kauwi Vocational Training Centre (VTC) on Thursday October 23rd, 2025 after completing various technical and vocational courses, reaffirming the institution’s vital role in equipping Kenya’s workforce with industry-relevant skills.

The colorful graduation ceremony, held at the institution’s grounds in Kauwi Ward, Kitui West Constituency, attracted hundreds of parents, community members, and several distinguished guests.

In her address, Mrs. Milcah Martha, the Principal/Manager of Kauwi VTC, congratulated the graduates and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to innovation, curriculum modernization, and strong alignment with industry needs. “Do not limit your aspirations to formal employment,” Mrs. Milcah urged. “Use your knowledge and skills to create businesses, mentor others, and provide solutions to challenges within your communities.”

She further encouraged them to be proactive and entrepreneurial, reminding them that the skills they have acquired are a foundation for self-reliance. “Opportunities exist, but don’t just sit and wait to be employed,” she advised. “We have given you the skills to make money, go out, innovate, and create your own opportunities.”

Mrs. Milcah also commended the County Government of Kitui, led by Governor Julius Malombe, for its continued support. She revealed that in the current financial year, the county allocated Ksh. 850,000 in pro-poor bursaries to help parents clear school fees. Additionally, the county covered examination fees for all second-year students, contributing Ksh. 5,000 per student, a total of Ksh. 895,000 significantly easing the financial burden on parents. “We sincerely thank the County Government of Kitui for its unwavering support,” she said. “Each financial year, the county funds a project at our institution. This year, we received one of the largest bursary allocations among all VTCs in the county. The county has also supplied sewing machines to our Dressmaking Department and tools to our Electrical Department, which we deeply appreciate.”

She further appealed for continued support to other departments to enhance the learning environment and ensure all workshops are well-equipped.

READ ALSO: Hon. Irene Kasalu Explains Why She Has Prioritized Education Through NGAAF Kitty in Kitui County

Dr. David Mueke, one of the guest speaker at the graduation ceremony, challenged the graduates to turn their technical abilities into economic value through professionalism, continuous learning, and adaptability.

“A skill alone does not make you an expert,” Dr. Mueke emphasized. “What makes you an expert is your commitment to continually improving that skill. Between skill and wealth lies professional character that’s what transforms knowledge into value.”

He also urged society to change its perception of vocational education, noting that success is not limited to university graduates. “Let’s dismantle the mindset that only those who go to university succeed, it’s simply not true,” he stated.

This year’s ceremony marked the 7th Graduation since the institution’s establishment in 2017. The 179 graduates received certificates in various disciplines, including: Fashion Design – 24 graduates, Electrical Wireman (17), Building Technology (12), Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy (27), Carpentry (15), Motor Vehicle Mechanics (40), Welding (30), and Plumbing/Pipe Fitting (14) students all graduating with (Grade III) and an additional 8 graduates advanced to (Grade II).

The steady growth of technical and vocational training underscores its vital role in driving Kenya’s economic transformation and youth empowerment.

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