The Nyeri National Polytechnic recently received state-of-the-art dairy training equipment. The training equipment has been donated through Kenya Education for Employment Program (KEFEP), a program launched in 2016 to support the revitalization of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system. The program has been funded by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada and implemented by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan).
The new equipment supports the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) courses, allowing students to work on equipment currently used in the industry. It provides practical experience and competence in equipment operation, use, and maintenance. So far, two cohorts have been trained on how to use the equipment, including making dairy products such as yoghurt and cheese.
The equipment was handed over by Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria the PS State Department for Vocational and Technical Training, Christopher Thornley the Canadian High Commissioner, and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga.
While delivering Education CS Ezekiel Machogu’s speech, the PS. noted that the program has helped to increase economic opportunities for TVET graduates by strengthening the quality and delivery of skills. She further called upon all state, and county agencies and relevant stakeholders to harmonize in skilling young people for employment and entrepreneurship.
Mr. Thornley opined that agribusiness is the key to economic development hence the Canadian government will continue to partner with the Kenyan government to support this sector. “I am thrilled to witness the great impact this dairy project has had, including being an income-generating opportunity for the Nyeri National Polytechnic,” added the High Commissioner.
Governor Kahiga reiterated the County Government’s commitment to projects geared towards supporting dairy cooperatives and self-help groups to enhance milk safety by upgrading their infrastructure and provision of milk coolers. “This is a great opportunity, which is in line with my manifesto’s core pillar of improving the social economic development of the people of Nyeri, particularly youth empowerment,” added the Governor.
Also present were the Chief Principal, Nyeri National Polytechnic David Mwangi, Nyeri Education CEC Margaret Macharia, Nyeri Agriculture CEC James Wachihi, Nyeri Central DCC Joseph Mwangi, Representative of the Chairperson Governing Council Evelyne Anupi, Director, Technical Vocational Education and Training Tom Mulati, Regional Director of Education Sabina Aroni, among others.
