Residents of Ndenderu Ward in Kiambu County have petitioned Governor Kimani Wamatangi to urgently upgrade and equip Ndenderu Vocational Training Centre, citing the need to expand access to technical skills training and improve employment opportunities for young people.
In a petition addressed to the governor, the community wants the county government to modernise the institution, provide adequate training equipment and introduce additional courses aligned with the demands of the job market.
The petition, presented by Ndenderu Ward United Community Based Organisation chairman John Mweha Kariuki, says the proposed intervention would transform the centre into a modern skills development institution capable of preparing young people for employment and entrepreneurship.
Among the courses proposed are catering and hospitality, driving, welding and fabrication, carpentry, masonry and business studies.
The residents argue that expanding the institution’s curriculum would give learners more opportunities to acquire practical and marketable skills, reducing their dependence on scarce formal employment opportunities.
They have also called on the county government to introduce sponsorship programmes targeting needy youth from the ward who may be unable to meet the cost of vocational training.
The petition highlights concerns over the current condition of the institution, with the community submitting photographs to demonstrate the state of its facilities and the need for urgent investment.
The proposed upgrading would involve improving the learning environment, equipping workshops and providing the necessary resources to support effective practical training.
Kariuki said the community was ready to work with the county administration to strengthen vocational education, empower young people and improve the general welfare of residents.
The appeal comes amid growing calls for greater investment in technical and vocational education as Kenya seeks to address youth unemployment and bridge the skills gap affecting several sectors of the economy.
Vocational training centres play a critical role in equipping young people with practical competencies that can enable them to secure employment, establish businesses or provide specialised services within their communities.
The residents want the governor’s administration, through the county’s Department of Education, to consider the proposals and take appropriate action.
Copies of the petition were also sent to the County Executive Committee Member for Education and the manager of Karuri Municipality, seeking their attention and intervention.
