Devolved governments have been urged to provide more resources and improve staffing in vocational training centres (VTCs) to ensure students receive quality education. This call was made during the release of the "State of Service Delivery in Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) Within Siaya and Kakamega Counties" report by Transparency International Kenya (TI-Kenya).
The report revealed significant gaps in equipment and infrastructure, with Brian Kibira, Chief Planning Officer for the Western region, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms in the sector. Speaking during the launch in Kakamega town, Kibira lauded the collaboration between Kakamega County and TI-Kenya, which made the study possible.
Dr. Boniface Okoth, the County Executive for Education in Kakamega, pledged to implement the recommendations and called on parents to enroll their children in vocational schools to equip them with practical life skills. The report also highlighted the need to make VTCs accessible for people with disabilities, with contributors like Catherine Namayi Shihundi advocating for disability-friendly infrastructure.
Key Findings
Fee Affordability:
- In Kakamega County, 84% of students found fees affordable, compared to 61% in Siaya County. However, 69% of parents in Kakamega County perceived fees as unfair.
Awareness of Funds:
- Awareness of institutional funding was low, with 98% of students in Siaya and 94% in Kakamega unaware of allocations.
Service Satisfaction:
- While 78% of students in Kakamega and 79% in Siaya expressed satisfaction with services, complaints were raised about specific VTCs, including Khisa and Umala, citing poor resources and tough instructors.
Complaint Handling:
- Parents in both counties expressed dissatisfaction with how complaints were managed, citing inadequate funding, lack of equipment, and inconsistent service delivery.
The report also highlighted the disparity in perceptions of fees between parents and students, emphasizing the need for better communication and equity in fee structures.
The findings underscore the necessity for devolved governments to invest in staffing, modern equipment, and accessible facilities to improve service delivery in VTCs. Released on November 20, 2024, at Golf Hotel in Kakamega, the report provides a roadmap for addressing challenges in the sector and enhancing vocational training.
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