Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has emphasized the government’s dedication to developing and building new Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to provide young people with skills that are in demand in the job market.
During the launch of the Likoni Technical and Vocational Training Centre, which specializes in refrigeration and air conditioning, CS Ogamba stated that this center will train skilled workers for over 58 industries that will operate in the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
He explained that the programs offered at the center will prepare students for jobs in fields such as refrigeration, welding, plumbing, ICT, construction, and infrastructure engineering.
The CS assured that the TVC would receive the necessary infrastructure, equipment, and trainers to produce high-quality graduates. He encouraged young people to enroll in TVET institutions to acquire these skills.
“This is a vital TVC, and as a government, we will support its growth. It currently has 810 trainees, with a goal of exceeding 3,000 by the end of the year,” he noted.
To safeguard the institution’s 12 acres of land, the government has allocated 10 million shillings for a perimeter wall. Additionally, 100 computers will be provided to enhance learning at the center.
On Friday, the government plans to sign an agreement with the African Export-Import Bank to facilitate the operation of the Dongo Kundu SEZ, with the signing ceremony to be attended by the Head of State during his week-long development tour of the Coast region.
To ensure a reliable electricity supply for the industries, the government has also set aside 6.5 billion shillings for the construction of a 50-kilometer, 220 KV transmission line from the Mariakani substation to the Dongo Kundu SEZ.
Likoni MP Mishi Mboko urged the government to establish a Huduma Centre in the densely populated constituency to prevent residents from having to travel to the nearby Mvita constituency. She also called for the reinstatement of ferries at Mtongwe to alleviate congestion at the Likoni Crossing Channel.
Governor Abdulswamad Nassir pledged to offer internship opportunities for students from the Likoni TVC within County government departments, stating, “After their internships, we will assist with job placements.”
