As over 3,000 students graduated from Matili Technical Training Institute in Bungoma County, leaders used the moment to send a strong message: success in today’s world demands more than just certificates.
Speaking at the graduation held on Friday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen urged the graduates to embrace integrity, excellence, and resilience as they step into an increasingly complex and competitive society.
“Do not be cheated by anybody into believing that people like the CSs or your leaders just got here. These are people who have gone through it, believe and trust in the process,” he said.
Murkomen warned against shortcuts, emphasising that professionalism and ethical conduct are critical, especially in technical fields where lives may depend on the quality of work.
“You must make sure you do well in whatever you do. Do it and do it in an excellent manner,” he said.
He added, “Your job has integrity. You will be entrusted with responsibilities where people’s lives depend on your work.”
The CS also linked the importance of discipline to broader societal challenges, including mental health pressures among young people.
“We are grappling with issues of mental health and rapid technological change that is putting pressure on the youth. Some get lost due to societal pressures,” he noted.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, a key driver of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) reforms, reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming technical education into a powerful engine for job creation and innovation.
“We must build a generation that values excellence and integrity. These are the foundations that will define Kenya’s future workforce,” Kindiki said.
He highlighted ongoing reforms, including the adoption of dual training systems to give students hands-on industry exposure, and curriculum reviews to align training with labour market demands.
At the institutional level, Matili TTI continues to grow in stature, with increasing calls for its elevation to a national polytechnic.
Principal Secretary Esther Muoria encouraged graduates to remain proactive and purposeful as they navigate life after school.
“The expectation of you is to go there and prosper. Go out, work hard and be busy, volunteer, God works with busy people,” she said.
She emphasised that technical education equips learners not just with job skills, but with life skills essential for collaboration and growth.
As the graduates celebrated their achievement, the message from leaders was unmistakable: the true test begins beyond the graduation stage.
In a rapidly evolving economy, success will depend not just on what graduates know, but how they apply their skills with discipline, integrity and a commitment to excellence.
