MPs Raise Alarm Over Underfunding of TVET Institutions in Western Kenya
This follows an inspection tour to Kisumu, Siaya, and Busia counties where the lawmakers visited Kisumu National Polytechnic, Siaya National Polytechnic, and Bumbe National Polytechnic.
Members of the National Assembly Committee on Education have expressed deep concern over the state of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, citing underfunding and infrastructure deficiencies. Parliament of Kenya.
By Robert Assad
Members of the National Assembly Committee on Education have expressed deep concern over the state of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, citing underfunding and infrastructure deficiencies.
This follows an inspection tour to Kisumu, Siaya, and Busia counties where the lawmakers visited Kisumu National Polytechnic, Siaya National Polytechnic, and Bumbe National Polytechnic.
Led by Committee Chairperson Julius Melly, the MPs inspected ongoing infrastructure projects and held discussions with institutional leaders. They discovered that despite the increasing demand for technical education, these institutions are grappling with delayed capitation, insufficient funding, and poor infrastructure.
At Kisumu National Polytechnic, Principal Catherine Kelonye revealed that the institution currently hosts 11,748 trainees but faces a growing funding shortfall. “The funding model promises KES 30,000 per student annually, yet we only received KES 11,000 in the 2022/2023 financial year, and KES 12,500 this year,” she stated. “This gap is affecting our operations and service delivery.”
In Siaya County, Siaya National Polytechnic Chief Principal Daniel Randa highlighted the challenges of inadequate student accommodation and financial hardships among students. “Most of our learners come from needy backgrounds. Many parents cannot meet even the basic requirements,” Randa said. He, however, commended the government’s efforts in making funding more accessible, noting it presents opportunities to increase enrolment.
Meanwhile, at Bumbe National Polytechnic in Busia, Principal Calestus Omollo raised concerns over high staff turnover, limited equipment, and poor enrolment in certain skill areas due to lingering negative perceptions about TVETs. He also mentioned severe infrastructure deficits that hinder effective training.
The MPs also noted the deplorable condition of roads leading to Bumbe, Nyamira, and Bungoma National Polytechnics, which further complicates access to the institutions.
Hon. Melly reiterated the Committee’s commitment to spearheading policy reforms. “These institutions are vital to Kenya’s industrial transformation. We must ensure capitation reflects actual costs and is disbursed promptly,” he said.
Hon. Julius Taitumu echoed the need for prioritising investment in TVETs, saying, “This is where the future of employment lies. We must increase funding and staffing to match national development needs.”
The Committee is set to table a report in Parliament recommending improvements in funding models, infrastructure development, and better alignment of TVET programs with the country’s economic priorities.
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