Bumula Member of Parliament (MP) Jack Wamboka now says that with the collapse of once thriving industries in Bungoma County, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions have become the region’s new economic engines that must be fully supported.
Speaking at Cardinal Otunga TVC Tulumba during the inauguration of the new Board of Governors, Wamboka said TVET institutions are now playing a critical role in sustaining local livelihoods.
He noted that residents are able to earn a living by supplying goods and services to the institutions, renting out houses to students and engaging in cottage businesses that thrive around the learning centres.
Wamboka reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening and expanding TVETs in Bumula Constituency, saying they hold the key to youth empowerment, job creation and long-term economic stability.
The newly inaugurated board will be chaired by Prof. Saul Namango, others include; Dr. Robert Nyukuri, with CPA Emily Simiyu and Brian Singoro.
The MP said that when he took over from former MP Mwambu Mabonga, Bumula ranked last in education performance countywide.
However, through close collaboration with school heads and strategic investment by the NG-CDF, the constituency has risen to number three in Bungoma.
“After the collapse of Bungoma’s strategic investments like Nzoia Sugar Company and Webuye Panpaper, we have embarked on strengthening TVETs to stimulate local economic growth,” Wamboka said.
He cited Cardinal Otunga TVC Tulumba and Musakasa TTI as institutions where he has invested heavily to boost learning infrastructure and student enrollment.
He also praised Education Cabinet Secretary Ogamba Migos for supporting education development in Bumula, including facilitating the appointment of a substantive principal at Cardinal Otunga TVC.
Wamboka further claimed that between 2017 and 2022, the Bumula NG-CDF under former MP Mwambu Mabonga allocated Ksh500, 000 to Cardinal Otunga TVC, but the funds cannot be traced.
“According to NG-CDF financial records, Sh500, 000 was allocated to this institution, but there is no accountability for that money,” he alleged.
The Public Investments Committee (PIC) Chairperson noted that when he assumed office, Cardinal Otunga TVC had no substantive principal and had a very low student population, a situation he says has since improved.
Wamboka reiterated his commitment to transforming the lives of young people through technical training, urging TVET heads to manage resources responsibly for maximum impact.
To further boost development at Cardinal Otunga TVC, the MP announced that NG-CDF has allocated Sh25 million for major infrastructure projects.
“I had instructed the Principal that the Sh25 million should not be touched until a board was in place. Now that the board has been inaugurated, you can begin implementing the projects,” he said.
Planned projects include the construction of a storey building to house lecture halls and workshops, procurement of modern hospitality equipment and establishment of a training restaurant to enhance practical learning.
Wamboka urged the new board to ensure transparency, efficiency and accountability as the institution enters a new phase of growth.
