By Habil Onyango
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga presided over the graduation of 526 youths under the Genowa Fundi Mang’ula Vocational Scholarship Programme, an initiative aimed at providing the graduates with practical skills.
The graduates, who enrolled in the programme last year, undertook training in various fields including vehicle repairs, plumbing, fashion and design, welding, cooking, hairdressing, masonry, and electrical work.
The programme was co-sponsored by the Homa Bay County Government and the Kenya Commercial Bank Foundation, at a total cost of Sh 24 million.
Wanga said the programme’s goal was to equip the county’s youth with skills for self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
“This programme was not about producing job seekers; but it was about nurturing a new generation of job creators, skilled professionals who can support themselves, uplift others, and build the county’s economic base.
By cultivating talent at the grassroots level, we are bridging the skills gap and unlocking the unique potential of each ward to help establish a thriving, self-sustaining producer county. Together, we are shaping a future powered by skilled hands and bold dreams,” she said.
She added that the programme was grounded in the belief that young people, when equipped with relevant skills, can drive innovations, power local industries, and support the country’s economic transformation.
Among the graduates, 164 top performers have been fully equipped to start working immediately.
“We are not sending you to a congested job market; we are releasing you into the community as solution providers.
With your skills, you are going to construct homes, fix machines, power households, knit school uniforms, and drive local production. Each of you has a role in shaping the future of Homa Bay,” she said.
She said her government had embarked on upgrading VTC structures and enhancing the learning environment.
“New workshops are currently under construction in Kanyaluo and Ketora. Additionally, the enrolment of students will expand from 15 to 20 per ward in the next intake,” she explained.
Accompanying her were Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, Speaker Polycarp Okomo, County Assembly Majority Leader Richard Ogindo, KCB Homa Bay Branch Manager Dorothy Omollo, as well as other executive members and MCAs.
Magwanga encouraged the graduates to be innovative and creative to start earning immediately. He urged them to join forces and form companies, enabling them to become employers rather than just employees.
“The skills you have earned are essential. In life, acquiring skills is more important than depending on handouts. The knowledge you have gained will serve you for your entire lifetime,” he advised the graduate.
Edited by Sandra Blessing.
