On Saturday, February 3rd, 2024, Khwisero Technical and Vocational College (TVC) hosted H.E. President William Ruto, who launched the 64th Jitume Lab as part of his tour of Kakamega County. This lab is part of the #Jitume Programme, powered by the Konza Technopolis Development Authority, aimed at empowering Kenyan youth with digital skills to actively participate in the growing digital economy.
President Ruto was accompanied by notable leaders, including Governor H.E FCPA Fernandes Barasa OGW, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli, Cabinet Secretary for Education Hon. Ezekiel Machogu, and PS Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, MBS, among others. They all emphasized the importance of utilizing the digital tools provided to upskill the youth and enhance their employability in an increasingly digitized world.
During the launch, President Ruto highlighted ICT’s pivotal role in reshaping technical institutions. He stressed that youth in rural areas like Khwisero can gain the skills necessary to generate income in the digital economy by embracing digital tools and training. “Even in the rural parts of our country like Khumusalaba in Kakamega County, the young people will earn decent incomes to support livelihoods,” the President remarked.
The President also shared that opportunities had already been secured with international firms to provide jobs for young people who complete the training. “Your job will just be about dialing the keyboard and then you make money, simple,” he added, urging the youth to seize the opportunity.
COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli, from Khwisero, thanked the President for bringing the Jitume Programme to his home constituency. Atwoli highlighted that providing 100 computers for the Jitume Lab marks a significant milestone in vocational training for Khwisero’s youth.
The event also coincided with the launch of Khwisero Sub County’s five-year strategic plan. The plan, covering 2023 to 2027, focuses on key priorities, including education, security, environmental conservation, sports, and digital transformation. Area MP Christopher Aseka reaffirmed his commitment to the successful implementation of the Sh. 933.5 million plan, despite potential challenges in funds disbursement.
