Over 900 Youthful Trainees Sit for National Trade Tests in Mandera

By Adan Mohamed - Reporter

20 April 2026 - The April 2026 National Trade Test Examinations for vocational training centres have officially begun in Mandera County, aimed at enhancing and strengthening skills development among local youth.

The assessments, which started this April, have brought together 912 trainees from seven vocational centres across the county.

Speaking during the commencement, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education and Human Capital Development, Bashir Ibrahim Alio, said the programme reflects the county’s strong commitment to investing in human capital.

“This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to empowering our youth with practical skills that will enable them to secure employment and create their own opportunities,” he said.

He noted that all candidates are sitting for the exams free of charge, with fees fully covered through a joint effort between the County Government and development partners.

Out of the 912 trainees, 423 are sponsored by the County Government, 295 by the KCB Foundation, 114 under the ELEVATE Programme (OSDA and RACIDA), and 80 under the BORESHA-NABAD Programme (RACIDA).

The exams are being conducted at six NITA-accredited centres located in Mandera, Takaba, Rhamu, Elwak, Banissa, and Rhamu Dimtu.

Trainees are being assessed in key technical areas including electrical installation, motor vehicle mechanics, welding, fashion design, and food and beverage courses.

To support graduates after completion, the county government has announced plans to provide start-up kits to help trainees transition into self-employment.

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Since the onset of devolution, Mandera County has made significant investments in vocational training centres across the region to support youth seeking practical skills and employment opportunities.

The county government has established and expanded training centres in various sub-counties, providing accessible and affordable technical education for young people who may not pursue formal academic pathways.

These centres offer hands-on training in areas such as mechanics, electrical work, tailoring, and hospitality.

The county government says the initiative is aimed at equipping youth with marketable skills, reducing unemployment, and promoting self-reliance through entrepreneurship and skilled labour.

The CECM thanked Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif for his leadership and appreciated development partners for their continued support of vocational training in the county.