Eldoret: Kesses Member of Parliament CPA Julius Rutto has called for a legally binding framework to ensure Kenyan graduates are given priority in all major development projects, particularly those executed in partnership with foreign contractors. Speaking on Monday during the 20th graduation ceremony at The Eldoret National Polytechnic in Uasin Gishu County, the legislator highlighted the need to end the trend where foreign firms undertake multibillion-shilling infrastructure projects using mostly imported technical labour, only to leave with both the earnings and the expertise.
According to Kenya News Agency, the MP noted that while Kenya continues to collaborate with development partners, the country has not benefited immensely from skills transfer. He emphasized the necessity of a policy requiring all future projects to reserve positions for Kenyan technical personnel, especially newly trained graduates from local Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
He further stated that such a framework would enable Kenyan youth to contribute to national development meaningfully while benefiting from hands-on training alongside foreign experts. The MP stressed that prioritising local graduates would enhance the country’s workforce and secure Kenya’s long-term self-reliance in fields such as engineering, ICT, and construction.
The call for action aligns with the government’s ongoing major infrastructure programmes, including the expansion of the Northern Corridor and the Affordable Housing initiative. These projects, the MP argued, should provide direct employment opportunities for the graduates receiving diplomas and certificates at the ceremony.
