Francis Wambugu Irungu Gichugu Member of Parliament Robert Githinji Gichimu has called on parents and students transitioning to tertiary education to prioritize technical courses, describing them as pathways to self-employment and wealth creation.
Speaking during the launch of the newly renovated Ngungu Primary School in Kabare Ward on Thursday, Gichimu urged families to steer clear of traditional academic routes in favor of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. “Choose a course that will help you employ yourself!” he noted, stressing the importance of studying a course that will help you build a skill that is marketable.
The MP highlighted his administration’s commitment to skills development through the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF). He informed residents that plans are underway to support 100 registered individuals with prior practical experience but no formal certification. This initiative, via Recognition of Prior Learning, aims to equip them with official papers, enabling access to government jobs and formal employment opportunities.
Gichimu’s NGCDF interventions have transformed Ngungu Primary School, elevating it from what parents and teachers once described as a dire state to a modern facility now drawing pupils from private institutions. Recent upgrades include tiling the floors of 13 classrooms, fresh painting, new roofing, and ceiling installations in the administration block.
Paul Mbiti, a parent at Ngungu School, praised the changes. “The school has taken a new design and we have seen learners transferring from private schools to Ngungu,” he noted.
Teachers share similar optimism about the impact on academic outcomes. “The learners are very motivated by the renovations and I know this will enhance their performance,” said Dorothy Gakuru, the headteacher.
The event also served as a platform for Gichimu to address broader educational access. He declared that public schools belong to all Kenyans, insisting no learner should be denied admission based on origin, provided they meet qualification criteria. “Let us not bring tribalism to this issue,” he added, in a pointed call against discriminatory practices amid ongoing national debates on school placements.
Water scarcity, a longstanding challenge in parts of Kabare Ward, featured prominently too. Gichimu acknowledged the persistent issue and assured residents of a permanent resolve. He revealed that Sh.200 million has been secured for the works, with contractors already notified and set to commence operations shortly. “I have been trying to resolve the issue,” he said, outlining his efforts to deliver piped water to affected areas.
The launch drew hundreds of locals, showing Gichimu’s growing influence in Kirinyaga County through targeted infrastructure projects. As Kenya grapples with youth unemployment rates hovering above 20%, his push for TVET aligns with national goals under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, emphasizing practical skills over white-collar aspirations.
His remarks resonate with a forward-looking approach aimed at creating a brighter future for the people of Gichugu.
