BUSIA: Matayos Member of Parliament Geoffrey Odanga has called on parents and students to embrace Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing it as the primary engine for unlocking youth employment and practical skills.

Speaking at St. Mary’s Burumba Secondary School during the issuance of bursary cheques worth Sh 71 million, Odanga emphasized that shifting mindsets toward technical training is essential for the country’s economic future.

“Technical education is the way to go. Our country’s future lies in it,” the MP stated. “We must change our attitude and understand that there are vast opportunities after such training. Students who do not proceed to university should not be discouraged; they can build successful careers through specialized skills.”

Embrace TVETs, a call to parents

Odanga urged parents to utilize Murende Technical Vocational College, noting that the institution already hosts nearly 2,000 students, 1,300 of whom hail from Matayos Sub-county.

He further highlighted a strategic partnership between the NG-CDF and the KCB Foundation.

Under this matching fund program, 100 students will receive nine months of training and, upon completion, will be provided with tools to launch their own businesses.

So far, 64 students have been on boarded.

The MP issued a stern warning to school administrators against sending students home for fees, noting that the distributed funds are specifically intended to ensure continuity in learning.

Each secondary school beneficiary received Sh 5,000.

“The financial challenges you have been facing as administrators have now been addressed,” he said. “I urge you to keep students in school so they can concentrate on their studies. We must minimize cases of children being sent home.”

In addition to fee support, the MP announced a Sh 41.8 million investment in regional school infrastructure; Sh28 million for the completion of a multi-storey tuition block, Mundika Boys High School, Sh 7.5 million for a multipurpose hall and finally Sh 6.3 million for an administration block.

Addressing broader community concerns, Odanga called on security agencies to intensify their efforts against local crime.

He expressed concern over delayed police responses and warned against officer laxity.

“Your responsibility is to provide security to residents. We will not tolerate officers who remain at one station for years without delivering results,” he cautioned.

Local school heads welcomed the relief, Elizabeth Nafula, Principal of St. James Nasewa Secondary, confirmed her school received Sh 1.1 million, benefiting over 200 students.

She noted that with the growth of local projects like the EPZ and Affordable Housing, the school is now seeking further support for dormitories to accommodate rising enrollment.

Similarly, Domitilla Nageri, Principal of Our Lady of Mercy Busia, noted that the Sh 1.2 million allocated to her institution would clear outstanding balances for many day scholars.

“This bursary is vital in supporting the education of the girl child and securing a brighter future for them,” she concluded.