Nyandarua Senator John Methu has urged the government to increase funding for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, warning that continued underfunding is undermining skills development across the country.
Speaking at Nyandarua National Polytechnic during the institution’s Alumni Annual General Meeting, Methu said urgent intervention is needed to improve infrastructure, enhance quality training and strengthen student capacity-building programmes.
The Senator expressed concern over the 2023/2024 budget allocation of Ksh5.2 billion to TVETs against a recommended Ksh8.8 billion, noting that the Ksh3.6 billion shortfall has negatively affected enrolment and institutional standards.
He called for coordinated efforts between the government and stakeholders to ensure the Ministry of Education is adequately funded to enable tertiary institutions to admit and accommodate more learners.
During the forum, education leaders also challenged alumni to actively support their former institutions.
Chief Principal Jane Gitau urged former students to strengthen the institution’s endowment fund to boost scholarships, research and innovation.
Nyandarua Chief Officer for Education Pachomius Wambugu echoed the call, encouraging alumni networks to support mentorship programmes, internships and financial contributions.
The appeal comes at a time when universities and tertiary institutions are grappling with financial strain, with some facing staff unrest over delayed payments and collective bargaining agreements.
Leaders maintained that sustainable investment in TVETs is critical to equipping young people with practical skills and driving Kenya’s economic growth.
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