Nandi:Governor Stephen Sang has urged newly certified hospitality workers in Nandi to utilize their qualifications to access job opportunities both locally and internationally. This appeal comes as part of the county’s efforts to enhance its tourism sector.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sang emphasized the importance of formal certification for skills acquired through practical experience, addressing a gap that previously prevented skilled workers from securing opportunities due to a lack of academic credentials. This message was delivered by County Secretary Dr. Francis Sang during a graduation ceremony at Kaiboi National Polytechnic in Mosop sub-County. The ceremony marked the certification of the first group of trainees under the Tourism Fund-sponsored Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Upskilling Programme.
At the event, Mosop MP Abraham Kirwa encouraged graduates to consider global job markets in countries like Qatar, the United States, and Germany, highlighting the worldwide demand for hospitality skills. Kirwa noted that certification enhances job mobility in competitive markets and urged trainees to continue advancing their careers through further training.
Nandi Woman Representative Cynthia Muge pointed out that the RPL programme helps overcome a significant hurdle for workers whose practical skills have not been formally acknowledged. She emphasized that formal recognition would facilitate the engagement of qualified local service providers by public institutions and stressed the importance of partnerships between government, training institutions, and industry to address skill gaps.
The inaugural group of certified trainees specialized in barista skills, events management, food and beverage production, and front office operations. Muge called for the expansion of the programme to recognize additional skills through Kaiboi and other TVET institutions, emphasizing the critical role skilled workers play in enhancing visitor experiences in the county.
She also encouraged local hospitality businesses to enhance their services and expand capacity to host major conferences and events, advocating for stronger collaboration among investors, trainers, and the government to establish Nandi as a premier conference and tourism destination.
