Student President Darius Kipchirchir Calls for Stronger Support to TVET Trainees at Eldoret National Polytechnic Graduation

By Wasike Elvis 

The 20th Graduation Ceremony of The Eldoret National Polytechnic was marked by a passionate and visionary address from Student President Darius Kipchirchir, who called for deeper collaboration between government, industry, and learning institutions to strengthen student welfare and enhance the impact of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Speaking before the Chief Guest, dignitaries, parents, faculty, and fellow students, Kipchirchir welcomed attendees on behalf of the student fraternity, describing the day as the culmination of “hard work, perseverance, and shared commitment to the future of our nation.”

He highlighted ongoing efforts by the student leadership to transform the council into an “issue-based organ” focused on responsible and inclusive governance. According to him, the council is committed to championing student welfare, promoting constructive dialogue with the institution’s management, and advocating for a supportive academic environment.

Kipchirchir applauded the Government of Kenya for recognizing the voice of student leaders through national engagement platforms such as the recently concluded **Jukwaa La Wasomi National Student Leaders and Agencies Summit** in Nairobi. He urged state agencies to deepen collaboration with the institution to ensure safety and security for students both on and off campus.

Addressing infrastructure challenges brought about by rising student enrolment, he appealed to the government to expedite the construction of additional hostels, noting that accommodation shortages continue to affect many trainees. He also raised concern over delays in education financing, calling for timely and consistent scholarship disbursements and stronger support for financially vulnerable but deserving students.

The Student President commended the positive direction of the TVET sector in preparing youth for employment and innovation. He urged the Ministry of Education’s State Department for TVET to develop policies compelling industry players to remove barriers that hinder student attachments, apprenticeships, and industrial collaborations.

“Stronger partnerships between training institutions and the world of work are essential,” he emphasized, calling for a more seamless transition from training to practical industry experience.

In a rallying message to graduating students, Kipchirchir described the day not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also “a call to action.” He encouraged graduates to pursue their careers with diligence, seek experiential opportunities, and become job creators through innovation and entrepreneurship.

As the ceremony came to a close, he extended warm festive wishes, saying, “I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous and impactful 2026.”

The event marked a significant milestone for the institution, celebrating its ongoing commitment to producing skilled, empowered, and industry-ready graduates.