Eldoret: The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Julius Ogamba, has called on graduates to confidently enter the job market, not just as job seekers but as entrepreneurs and innovators, contributing meaningfully to the nation’s economy. Ogamba made these remarks during the 20th graduation ceremony of The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP) in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu, where 3,619 graduates were celebrated as the institution marked its 40th anniversary.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Cabinet Secretary emphasized the government’s commitment to equipping the youth with the skills needed to meet both current and future labor market demands. He highlighted the importance of the modular curriculum and the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), along with policies like the Recognition of Prior Learning and the dual training policy, as essential tools in providing practical hands-on competencies aligned with industry standards.
Ogamba stressed the need for reforming the TVET system to enhance industry engagement and partnerships between TVET institutions and industry through the dual training policy. This approach ensures that trainers become integral to government projects, keeping training relevant and future-ready. He encouraged all TVET institutions to continuously reposition themselves to deliver quality and relevant training by enhancing industry partnerships and updating equipment.
Commending the governing council and the staff of TENP, Ogamba acknowledged the institution’s growth from a humble technical school to a leading center of technical and vocational training in Kenya. He praised the polytechnic’s significant role in developing the country’s technical workforce, producing artisans, technicians, technologists, and innovators who contribute substantially to the economy.
Chief Principal Dr. Charles Koech credited government support for the polytechnic’s development, including infrastructural expansion and academic diversification. He announced plans to expand departments to accommodate emerging fields in technology, engineering, entrepreneurship, applied sciences, computing, and business. Dr. Koech also highlighted the collaboration with Uasin Gishu county government and industry partners like Rivatex East Africa Ltd and others, which strengthens teaching, practical exposure, and internships.
Dr. Koech emphasized the importance of curriculum reforms driven by industry experts and labor market surveys, ensuring courses align with job market needs. He spoke about the institution’s dedication to applied research, innovation, and quality assurance, adopting global best practices to maintain competitiveness. The annual International Research Conference was highlighted as a platform for academic advancement, impacting both industry and academia.
Dr. Paul Murgor, Governing Council Chairman, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to providing strategic leadership to position TENP as a center of excellence in technological advancement. He pledged to continue working with stakeholders to elevate the institution’s status further.
