Mandera turns to TVET to tackle unemployment

Trainees drawn from seven vocational training centres across the county undertaking the exam./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Mandera has taken a significant step in strengthening its technical and vocational education sector.

On Tuesday, the education department launched the National Trade Test examinations, a milestone that highlights ongoing efforts to equip young people with practical skills and improve their chances of employment and self-reliance.

The examinations has drawn trainees from seven vocational training centres across the county.

The initiative forms part of a broader strategy by the county government to address unemployment by investing in skills development that is aligned with market needs.

Education executive Bashir Alio described the exercise as a critical moment for the trainees and a reflection of the county’s long-term commitment to human capital development.

He said the growing demand for technical skills— locally and nationally—has made vocational training an essential pillar in economic empowerment.

The candidates are undertaking their assessments at six centres accredited by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), located in Mandera, Takaba, Rhamu, Elwak, Banissa and Rhamu Dimtu.

They are being examined in a range of market-relevant trades, including electrical installation, motor vehicle mechanics, welding and fabrication, fashion design, and food and beverage production.

These areas have been carefully selected to match employment opportunities within the region, as well as to support entrepreneurship among graduates.

A key highlight of this year’s examinations is the comprehensive financial support provided to the trainees.

The county in collaboration with development partners, has fully covered examination fees for all candidates.

According to Alio, this intervention is meant to eliminate financial barriers that often prevent skilled trainees from obtaining formal certification.

“This support ensures that no trainee is left behind due to inability to pay examination fees,” he said.

County officials engaging some of the trainees /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Alio said that in addition to certification, the county government has put in place measures to support graduates as they transition into the workforce.

He said successful candidates will receive start-up toolkits tailored to their specific trades, enabling them to begin income-generating activities immediately after completion.

This move is expected to encourage self-employment and reduce dependency on scarce formal jobs.