Ndia Technical and Vocational College held its first graduation since inception in 2018 at a function held in Ndia Constituency, Kirinyaga County which saw 209 graduates awarded diplomas and certificates in various courses.
While congratulating the graduates and the institution, various speakers emphasized the vital role of technical institutions, calling on parents to enroll their children for the courses offered.
David Ng’ang’a, representing Principal Secretary, State Department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET), said it is on the agenda of the Kenya Kwanza government to make sure all TVETs are well equipped to provide basic knowledge to learners.
He added that the incorporation of the dual trainers’ programme has given the trainees deep and real-world experience that enables them to acknowledge the gap between theory and practice.
He acknowledged good cooperation between several TVET institutions that have seen them enter into agreements with industries within their regions in order to offer industrial training courses.
“The visionary leadership of the Kenya government and NG-CDF for offering unwavering support in the establishment of this institution and their commitment in investing in education and skill development has paved the way for a brighter future for our youths”
He said the reforms recommended by the presidential working party on education will be fully implemented. “The education taskforce gave out a report last year and we as a ministry have embarked on implementing its recommendations that includes full roll out of competence-based education and training programs.”
Ndia Member of Parliament Mr George Kariuki who was among the guests said gone are the days when TVET was seen as a waste of time and parents preferred other learning institutions over them.
The legislator noted that the technical schools have proven to produce qualified and skilled workers in different departments and challenged residents to take advantage of the courses offered at the institution by enrolling their children.
“TVET is vital for fostering innovation, enhancing productivity and driving economic growth. It provides a pathway for youth to acquire skills that meet the demands of the modern labour market,” Kariuki said.
The MP further promised to invest an additional Sh10 million from the local NG-CDF to help the school get more lecture halls and workshops along with other facilities.
Ndia Technical Vocational College principal Nicholas Muriuki said the institution opened in 2018 with 33 students adding the number has since risen to 622 students undertaking different courses. He said their programs are tailored to meet demands of the ever-evolving job market.
He revealed that they also offer fully subsidized German Language Training which commenced in March this year.
He attributed the growth to collaboration from the national government and the NGCDF office that has been allocating resources to develop it.
Anthony Wandu, Chair BOG, called on those who have acquired skills in the Jua kali sector to register for exams in the institution to acquire certificates through the Recognition Prior-Learning Program.
“Let’s continue to support this institution by bringing our sons and daughters here. If you go around today you will notice that we have opened a new workshop, and further, the government is investing more than Sh200 million in facilities. Those who have skills can register for exam and receive certificates through RPL-Recognition Prior-Learning,” Wandu divulged.
Kirinyaga West Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) John Mbugua said the institution has transformed the area in terms of business and improvement of security.
By Mutai Kipngetich
