Kindiki Highlights Education Initiatives in Kilifi Visit

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reiterated the government’s dedication to enhancing Kenya’s education sector, pointing to notable progress in technical training and infrastructure development while touring Kilifi County. During his address in Buni Gandani within Rabai Constituency, the Deputy President noted that targeted policy measures to improve tertiary education and vocational training are yielding results, evidenced by a significant increase in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution enrollments. Kindiki reported that TVET enrollments have surged from 297,000 students in 2022 to 718,000 presently, propelled by reforms including the Dual Training Policy (DTP), Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and modular-based learning approaches. The administration has also enhanced sector capacity by recruiting 3,300 tutors and upgrading training equipment. The Deputy President emphasized that these measures aim to align education with industry requirements, providing youth with practical skills that boost employability and productivity. Kindiki also underscored the Housing Fund’s contribution to student welfare, mentioning a nationwide initiative to build hostels for university and tertiary students. This program seeks to offer secure, affordable, and suitable housing to improve educational experiences. During his tour, the Deputy President oversaw the groundbreaking for the Rabai Technical and Vocational College hostel project, featuring 340 bed spaces at a cost of Sh157 million. This development is anticipated to substantially alleviate housing difficulties for local students. In Mwawesa, also in Rabai Constituency, Kindiki identified greater government investment in education as a primary catalyst for reforms, highlighting that the education budget has expanded from Sh500 billion in 2022 to Sh765 billion in the 2026/27 fiscal year. The Deputy President outlined multiple government actions to enhance educational quality and accessibility, such as refining the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum, hiring 100,000 more teachers, and constructing 23,000 classrooms and 1,600 laboratories across the country. He also mentioned the implementation of a student-focused university funding approach and the rise in higher education funding from Sh45 billion to Sh82 billion as pivotal moves toward more accessible and fair university education. The Deputy President stated, ‘Our administration is committed to guaranteeing that every learner receives quality, affordable, and pertinent education aligned with contemporary economic needs.’ During another event, Kindiki inaugurated the Chonyi Comprehensive School, built using Rabai Constituency Development Funds at a cost of Sh12 million. This facility is projected to broaden basic education opportunities for local students. Kindiki was joined by Rabai MP Kenga Mupe, Kenya Roads Board Chairperson Aisha Jumwa, Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund Board Chairman George Kithi, County Assembly members, and community leaders. Community members welcomed the initiatives, expressing hope that education and training investments will create opportunities for young people and stimulate socio-economic advancement in Kilifi County. The Kilifi visit is part of the government’s wider national development strategy focused on expanding educational access, improving infrastructure, and improving community livelihoods.