A Sh156.8 million hostel project at Rachuonyo Technical and Vocational College in Kasipul Constituency, Homa Bay County, is set to ease the institution’s accommodation challenges and improve learning conditions for students.
The four-storey hostel has been handed over to the contractor, with construction expected to begin within two weeks and take 12 months to complete. Once completed, the facility will accommodate approximately 340 students. The project is part of government efforts to improve infrastructure in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions as demand for practical skills continues to grow across the country.
Speaking during the site handover ceremony, Homa Bay Deputy County Commissioner Silvester Mwangulu urged residents to support the contractor and ensure the project is completed without disruptions. He said cooperation between the community, contractor and college administration would be critical to the successful implementation of the project.
“The community has a responsibility to support this project by providing a peaceful environment for the contractor. When the Government brings development to an area, we should work together to ensure it is completed successfully,” Mwangulu said.
He also encouraged local residents to take advantage of employment and business opportunities expected to emerge during the construction period.
State Department for Housing and Infrastructure Regional Director Anderson Gichana said the hostel would expand the college’s capacity to accommodate its growing student population.
He noted that modern infrastructure was essential in creating a conducive learning environment and supporting the government’s efforts to expand access to technical and vocational training.
“This project is an important investment in the institution. Once completed, it will improve the quality of facilities available to students and ensure a better learning environment,” Gichana said.
Kasipul MP Boyd Were welcomed the investment, describing it as an important step towards strengthening technical education and empowering young people with relevant skills.
He said improved infrastructure at Rachuonyo Technical and Vocational College would increase access to training for youth in Kasipul and neighbouring areas while supporting national development.
Local administration officials also welcomed the project, noting that construction would generate employment and business opportunities for residents.
Acting Chief of Karabach Location Erick Otieno Achola urged the community to cooperate with the project team and create a favourable environment for the construction works.
Rachuonyo Technical and Vocational College Chief Principal Nelly Okeye described the hostel as a major milestone for the institution, which has continued to expand its programmes and student population.
She said the facility would provide a long-term solution to the college’s accommodation challenges while improving students’ welfare.
“This is a major boost for the college. Better accommodation will improve the welfare of our students and give them a more conducive environment to learn and develop their skills,” Okeye said.
The project is expected to strengthen Rachuonyo TVC’s capacity to train more young people by addressing one of the key challenges facing institutions experiencing rising enrolment—adequate student accommodation.