Michuki Technical Training Institute Upgraded to National Polytechnic.
The recent decision by the cabinet to elevate Michuki Technical Training Institute to a National Polytechnic has sparked widespread celebrations among the residents of Kangema sub-county.
This approval, alongside the elevation of four other institutions, has increased the number of national polytechnics in Kenya from 23 to 28.
The news has been hailed as a transformative development for both the education sector and the socio-economic landscape of Kangema constituency.
On Friday, the institute became a hive of activity as locals gathered to mark this achievement, which had spread rapidly through the community.
The institution, established in 1956 as a youth training centre, has since grown into a provider of technical, industrial, vocational, and entrepreneurship training.
The upgrade is expected to further bolster its role as a global leader in vocational education.
Residents expressed optimism about the socio-economic benefits the national status would bring. John Mwangi Njoka, an octogenarian, highlighted how the institute has historically uplifted the community’s economy and social standing.
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He emphasized that increased student enrolment would attract more investors, particularly in housing and other infrastructure projects, thereby stimulating the local economy.
Njoka specifically lauded Kangema MP Peter Kihungi for his steadfast commitment to education and for championing the upgrade. He urged investors to take advantage of the development, noting that the nearby ultra-modern Karugia market would also benefit, contributing to the country’s GDP growth.
Impacts on Education and Employment
Kangema MP Peter Kihungi acknowledged that the elevation would expand the institute’s academic programmes, enhance research capabilities, and create job opportunities.
He stated that Michuki National Polytechnic would now serve as a hub for other vocational training institutions in Murang’a County, sharing resources and offering specialized courses unavailable elsewhere.
He also pledged to support the institution in its transition to meet the requirements of its new status, including investments in infrastructure and faculty development.
Chief Principal Ann Mbogo expressed her excitement over the milestone, emphasizing its potential to address skills gaps in the community.
She stated that the polytechnic, which currently serves over 5,300 trainees, would develop curriculums tailored to local needs, award qualifications, and certify informal learners.
She assured the community of the institute’s commitment to lifelong learning and its readiness to enhance economic participation both locally and globally.
Mbogo further explained that the institution would adopt a cluster model, mentoring other TVET institutions in the county and implementing the TVET sector blueprint.
She reiterated that the polytechnic would become a qualification-awarding institution, responsible for curriculum development and certification.
Advanced Facilities and Economic Potential
The institute already boasts several well-established departments, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and applied sciences.
It also serves as an examination centre for KNEC, NITA, CDACC, and KASNEB. At the applied sciences department, head of section Daniel Mwangi showcased a modern laboratory equipped for yoghurt production and water treatment.
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He noted that the department processes 1,000 litres of milk daily, purchased from local farmers, and anticipated that the elevation would increase demand for their products, boosting incomes in the area.
The upgrade aligns with the national framework requiring at least one national polytechnic in every county and a TVET institution in each constituency. This policy aims to decentralize technical education and ensure equitable access to vocational training across the country.
Michuki Technical Training Institute Upgraded to National Polytechnic.
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