By Maslah Mumin | BORESHA Project
Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is the most practical avenue for acquiring readily employable skills for the world of work. Kenya and in particular Mandera needs skilled workers. Competent artisans and technicians are needed to fill skills gaps in various sectors of the Mandera local economy, including the building and construction industry, power and energy plants, water distribution and sanitation systems, and large public works. Adequately trained workers are also in short supply. In today’s world young people who have undertaken any form of TVET have a much better chance of finding decent employment and making a living. It is with this backdrop that we bring you the story of Hussein Hassan, a 24-year-old Plant Operator trainee from Mandera, Kenya.
“It has always been my desire and wish to learn how to operate the Motor grader, Mobile Crane and the Truck Shovel, these are heavy machines that if I master them well have the potential of turning not only my life around but that of my family and relatives back home” Says Hussein. Hussein is one among several trainees from Mandera that we have supported and continue to support with skills training. We flew them from Mandera to Nairobi, paid their school fees and enrolled them at Sensei Institute of Technology which is the leading institution for technical skills training in Nairobi. It offers access to an industry-based training program, professionally delivered, that will not only equip you with practical skills, but also gives you the theory behind the skill.
The course Hussein in undertaking is driven by market demands, today there are a lot of infrastructure projects ongoing in Mandera county, thanks in large part to devolution, there is therefore need for skilled plant operators like Hussein that can be able to take up the local jobs. “This training will go a long way in helping me access quite a number of job opportunities not only Mandera County but throughout the country and beyond, therefore supporting my livelihood and leading me towards the path of self-reliance and resilience” says Hussein.
Hussein looks forward to being a certified Plant Operator after successfully passing all his exams come January where he will be able to fully operate the Motor grader, Mobile Crane and the Truck Shovel. Indeed, the journey of a thousand miles starts with one step, his one step started when he decided to leave his family, friends and relatives back in Mandera for Nairobi where he hopes his life will take a turn for the best.