The Cabinet Secretary for Water and Sanitation, Erick Mugaa, has issued a clarion call to the youth, urging them to embrace technical skills by enrolling in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
Speaking at a recent event, the CS highlighted the transformative potential of technical education in addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth.
Mugaa stressed the importance of technical training as a means of empowering the youth to become self-reliant.
“The skills gained from TVET institutions provide young people with the tools to create their own opportunities, reducing reliance on white-collar jobs,” he said.
The CS emphasized that sectors such as construction, agriculture, technology, and manufacturing are in dire need of a skilled workforce.
He pointed out that these industries offer immense potential for job creation and innovation, especially for those equipped with practical skills.
“Technical training not only paves the way for employment but also empowers individuals to create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” Mugaa stated.
Bridging the Skills Gap
Mugaa noted the widening skills gap in various sectors, attributing it to an overemphasis on traditional academic pathways.
He argued that technical skills are crucial in bridging this gap and meeting the evolving demands of the modern job market.
“Economies around the world are rapidly evolving, driven by technology, engineering, and manufacturing. This has created a high demand for a skilled workforce proficient in these areas. TVET institutions play a pivotal role in preparing graduates to meet this demand,” he remarked.
The CS also underscored the role of TVET education in tackling unemployment, stating that skilled workers are better positioned to secure jobs or establish their own enterprises.
“By equipping young people with the necessary skills, we can significantly reduce unemployment rates while boosting economic growth,” he added.
Investing in the Future
Mugaa’s remarks come at a time when governments and stakeholders across the globe are advocating for increased investment in technical education to drive economic development.
The CS called on young people to seize the opportunities presented by TVET institutions, emphasizing that technical skills are not just a pathway to personal success but also a cornerstone for national progress.
He concluded by encouraging stakeholders to prioritize and support the growth of TVET institutions, ensuring that they are adequately equipped to meet the growing demand for technical education.
“The youth hold the key to our nation’s future, and technical skills are the foundation on which that future will be built,” Mugaa affirmed.
With his passionate appeal, the Cabinet Secretary has reignited the conversation on the importance of vocational training in shaping a skilled and empowered workforce, poised to drive innovation and economic resilience.