By Nyang’au Araka
The view and serenity of newly elevated Nyamira National Polytechnic (NNP) and its vicinity is nothing short of a blend of nature and synthetics.
Formerly known as Ekerubo Gietai Technical Training Institute, NNP sits where every glance reveals a calm panorama.
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Next to it is the vibrant Kerito tea estate that ripples down the slopes like a living green duvet.
The greenery outside the centre of training whose new status was pronounced a few months back by President William Ruto is also home a hospitable community.
The landscape, the infrastructure, the training staff, the students, all shape the mood and inspire the mind as one readies self for acquisition of new skills and competencies.
Technical training has continued to gain popularity in Kenya in recent years, owing to its potential to unlock young people’s potential as self-employees and potential employers.
To boost enrollment and enable more Kenyans access technical training, the Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) Foundation is offering fully funded scholarships in select technical institutions in nine counties.
At NNP, the sponsor is targeting those interested to pursue a course in Electrical Installation, Hairdressing, Hospitality and Domestic Services.
The other targeted counties are Mombasa, Taita Taveta, Kilifi, Garissa, Kirinyaga, Kajiado, Kiambu, Nyamira and Kisumu.
North Mugirango MP, Joash Nyamoko who has been passionate and at the centre of NNP’s recent growth says he is elated with this offer.
“This opportunity comes with incredible benefits like mentorship, hands-on training, and career guidance to help you succeed in your chosen field,” Nyamoko said.
Nyamoko urged potential applicants to take advantage of the opportunity to acquire professional skills.
“Don’t miss this chance to gain skills that are in high demand and kick-start a rewarding career,” he said.
Other courses offered at NNP (but not included in the scholarship) include civil engineering, community development and social work, fashion and design, ICT and Business Management.
The institution also offers secretarial studies, masonry, human resource management, supply chain management, plumping technology, agriculture extension, among other courses.
According to the 2019 population census, about 35.7 million Kenyans (75.1%) are below 35 years, while 32.73 million (68.9%) live in rural areas.
The Kenya Institute of Public Policy and Research Analysis (KIPPRA), says that Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes can reduce rural-urban migration and alleviate joblessness among the youth.
“Quality TVET is widely recognized as having an important role to play in tackling youth unemployment,” says the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in an article published on their website.
