Over 100 Isiolo Youth Enrolled in TVET Mashinani Programme to Boost Job Skills
More than 100 young people from Isiolo County have begun vocational training under the Wezesha Vijana TVET Mashinani Programme, an initiative aimed at equipping unemployed youth with practical skills to boost their income and job prospects.
The programme, supported by the Safaricom Foundation in partnership with the Isiolo County Government and Catholic Relief Services (CRS), offers short technical courses in mobile phone repair, motorcycle mechanics, plumbing, baking, and pastry.
Speaking during the launch of the second cohort at Kambi Turkana in Burat Ward, CRS Youth and Entrepreneurship Head Irene Wairimu said the initiative targets vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities and young mothers.
TVET Mashinani provides marketable skills to youth of both genders, including those living with disabilities, she said, adding that the partnership among CRS, Safaricom Foundation, Caritas Isiolo, the county government, and local institutions is helping transform lives.
Isiolo County Chief Officer for Vocational Training, Ibrahim Chala, said 115 youths are currently enrolled — 35 in plumbing, 20 in motorcycle repair, 35 in mobile phone repair, and 25 in baking and pastry.
He noted that new training facilities, including an administration block, welding offices, and electrical workshops, will be constructed to support expansion. Participants will also receive KNQA-recognized certificates upon completion.
Safaricom Foundation Programme Manager, Nicholas Wechuli, said TVET Mashinani is part of a wider youth empowerment agenda, noting that more than 333 youth benefitted during the first rollout in 2023 across Isiolo, Marsabit, and Nairobi.
This second cohort will train over 300 youth. Our goal is to empower at least 2,400 young people nationwide, said Wechuli. He urged youth to prioritize technical skills, which he described as permanent and marketable anywhere.
Isiolo CEC for Tourism, Trade, and Cooperatives, Dr. Lawrence Mwongela, encouraged more young people to join the programme, noting that vocational skills are key to long-term economic independence.
We are fully committed to supporting training programmes that uplift our community, he said.
The TVET Mashinani programme is expected to strengthen youth employment opportunities across Isiolo, providing long-term skills and creating pathways to economic empowerment.