ABSA Bank Delegation Visits The Eldoret National Polytechnic to Strengthen Strategic Partnership

A high-level delegation from Absa Bank Kenya on February 13, 2026, paid a courtesy call to the Chief Principal of The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP), Dr. Charles Koech, in a move aimed at deepening collaboration between the financial sector and technical training institutions.

The ABSA team was led by James Agin, Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) Director. The delegation also included Charles Wokabi, Head of ABSA Foundation and Sustainability; Eng. Songok, Regional Manager; Bethuel Chumba, Branch Manager, ABSA Eldoret; and Wilson Korir, Relationship Manager. Their visit underscored the bank’s commitment to supporting education, innovation and sustainable development within local communities.

The team was warmly received by Chief Principal Dr. Charles Koech and later joined in the engagement by members of the Deputy Principal administration, including Mr. Seurey Paul, Human Resource Officer; Mr. Eliud Kiptanui; and OCS/WITED Coordinator, Md. Anita Kosgei. The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to exchange ideas and explore areas of strategic alignment.

During the deliberations, the two entities discussed potential areas of mutual convergence and partnership designed to enhance the growth and competitiveness of the polytechnic while empowering its trainees. Among the key areas highlighted was collaboration in the space of innovation, where ABSA expressed interest in supporting student-led projects with the potential for commercialization and real-world impact.

Mentorship in entrepreneurial skills also featured prominently in the discussions. The bank’s leadership emphasized the importance of equipping trainees not only with technical competencies but also with financial literacy, business planning skills and market access knowledge to enable them to successfully transition into self-employment or enterprise development.

Additionally, the parties explored opportunities for sponsorship programs targeting marginalized and vulnerable trainees. Such support would help ease financial barriers to education and ensure that deserving students are able to complete their studies without interruption. The bank also indicated willingness to explore insurance cover solutions for TENP employees, particularly temporary staff, as part of enhancing staff welfare and institutional resilience.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Koech appreciated the visit and reaffirmed TENP’s commitment to building strong partnerships with industry players. He noted that collaboration with financial institutions is crucial in strengthening innovation ecosystems within technical institutions and preparing trainees to meet the dynamic demands of the job market.

The ABSA delegation, on its part, reiterated the bank’s focus on sustainability, community empowerment and inclusive economic growth. They emphasized that partnerships with institutions like TENP are vital in nurturing talent, stimulating entrepreneurship and driving grassroots economic transformation.

The courtesy call marked a significant milestone in fostering closer ties between the corporate sector and technical education institutions. Both parties expressed optimism that the engagement would culminate in structured programs and initiatives that will benefit trainees, staff and the wider community.

The visit concluded with a shared commitment to continuous dialogue and collaboration, signaling the beginning of what is expected to be a mutually beneficial partnership anchored on innovation, mentorship and social impact.