Uasin Gishu to expand ECDE and VTCs as enrolment rises

Bii says the county targets to put up over 90 new early childhood education centres in the region and equip over 30 VTCs.

“Our target is to ensure that the young children have a good education foundation while also expanding the VTCs to offer technical courses to youth,” he said.

He said enrolment in ECDE units had increased to over 45,000 children hence the need to expand available facilities and recruit more teachers.

Governor Bii spoke when he presided over the launch of the Uasin Gishu Tujiajiri KCB Scholarship Programme for 2026.

A total of 25 students drawn from across the county will benefit from the initiative, which will see their training fully funded through a partnership between the county government of Uasin Gishu and the KCB Foundation.

Governor Bii revealed that the county had signed a memorandum of understanding with the KCB Foundation to support skills development and youth empowerment. 

“Under the Tujiajiri Programme, beneficiaries will undergo tailored six- and nine-month training courses and receive toolkits upon graduation, empowering them to secure their future,” the governor said.

Under the partnership, the county government has allocated Sh25 million for the programme, with the KCB Foundation committing an equal amount.

Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea challenged the programme beneficiaries to remain focused and fully utilise the opportunity to improve their livelihoods. He also lauded Governor Bii for prioritising investment in the education sector.

“We appreciate you, governor, for your continued support to the needy, doubling bursaries, employing ECDE teachers and investing in education infrastructure,” Kapkea said.

 KCB Foundation managing director Mendi Njonjo commended the county for implementing transformative initiatives aimed at improving basic education and vocational training.

Mendi noted that the KCB Tujiajiri Programme offers learners a chance to acquire practical skills that will enable them to earn a sustainable living.

Some of the scholarship slots have been reserved for persons with disabilities, vulnerable members of society and teen mothers.

County executive for education and vocational training Lucy Ng’endo said the county has allocated adequate resources to support VTCs and thanked KCB Foundation for partnering with the county to empower the youth.

The event was also attended by county secretary Phillip Melly, education chief officer Eunice Suter and county assembly education committee chairperson Thomas Yego, all of who urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity to uplift their lives and those of their families.