By Matilda Atieno
The air at Akado Vocational Training Center buzzed with electric energy as the institution transformed into a colorful theatre of brilliance for International Youth Skills Day 2026. It was a day characterized by vibrant displays, uniting young talents from public and private vocational training centers across the entire county. This remarkable gathering served as a powerful reminder of what the youth can achieve when they are provided with the right tools, mentorship, and opportunities to shine.
The celebrations kicked off on a constructive note with a high-level workshop aimed at bridging the gap between classroom training and the modern workplace. Organized in a strategic partnership with Tech for SM and Maseno University, this session brought together essential industrial players to deliberate on how to better align technical training with the current market demands. The dialogue proved fruitful, setting a tone of purpose and collaboration that defined the rest of the day.
Following the workshop, the event exploded into an exhibition of raw talent and technical ingenuity. Students showcased their hard-earned prowess in a diverse range of fields, including plumbing, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and cutting-edge solarization technology. Fashion and beauty enthusiasts displayed their creative flair through stunning designs, while those in agribusiness and ICT proved that the future of the county is firmly in the hands of the tech-savvy and the agriculturally innovative. Cosmetology students added to the vibrant atmosphere with demonstrations of their professional skills, leaving guests impressed by the high standard of training being received across the county.
The atmosphere remained electric as the focus shifted from technical demonstrations to the football pitch. The spirit of sportsmanship was evident throughout, with the women’s final seeing Kianja VTC face off against the formidable Akado side, while the men’s final featured a gripping duel between Akado and Rotary VTC. Both matches were beautifully played and conducted in a friendly spirit, culminating in a triumphant moment as Akado VTC scooped the trophies in both the male and female categories, leaving Rotary and Kianja to take home well-deserved second-place positions.
The event was graced by the Chief Officer for Education and TVET, Mr. Bovince Ochieng, who attended alongside the County Director of TVET, Madam Paschalia Ouma, to witness the impressive display of skill. Addressing the enthusiastic gathering, Mr. Ochieng hailed the day as a massive milestone for the county’s vocational education sector. He spoke passionately about the importance of the event, emphasizing that the government is fully committed to nurturing talents that are not only employable but also innovative. Mr. Ochieng took a moment to sincerely recognize and appreciate the industrial players and stakeholders, noting that their involvement transforms mere training into real-world opportunities. He highlighted that the role of these stakeholders is the backbone of the county’s progress, providing the necessary guidance and industry insights that bridge the critical transition from a student to a professional.
The day was a resounding success that underscored the vital role of every participant, from the instructors who provide the foundation to the students who display the application of their skills. The celebration proved that when industry leaders, educators, and the government align their goals, the youth of Kisumu County become an unstoppable force for economic development.
