ByWasike Elvis

Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI), one of Kenya's oldest and most prestigious public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, has announced that applications for its September intake are now open.

The Eldoret-based institution is inviting prospective students to enroll in artisan, craft, diploma, and higher diploma programmes across engineering, ICT, business, hospitality, agriculture, health sciences, and other technical fields.

Established in 1962 as a technical and trade school, RVTTI has grown into a regional centre of excellence in technical education. It was upgraded to a technical high school in 1979, offering A-Level science programmes, before becoming the Rift Valley region's first Technical Training Institute in 1986. 

Today, the institution enrolls close to 10,000 students and is led by Chief Principal Ms. Loice  Kutoh , an education administrator who assumed leadership after serving as principal of Aldai Technical Training Institute and Sang'alo Institute of Science and Technology. Under her stewardship, the institute has continued to strengthen research, innovation, and industry collaboration. 

RVTTI's reputation extends beyond Kenya. In 2013, it was designated an East African Community Centre of Excellence in TVET, and in 2016 became a member of the UNESCO-UNEVOC Network, making it one of the region's internationally recognized technical training institutions. It is also ISO 9001:2015 certified and has been a pioneer in implementing Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET). 

The institute has also distinguished itself in research, hosting annual international TVET conferences since 2012 and publishing peer-reviewed journals, including the Africa Journal of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (AfriTVET), which showcases innovations and research from scholars across Africa. 

According to the institute, students benefit from accredited programmes, modern workshops and laboratories, hands-on practical training, and strong partnerships with industry that prepare graduates for employment and entrepreneurship.

Located along the Eldoret–Kaptagat Road, opposite KCC and about 4.7 kilometres from Eldoret Central Business District, RVTTI continues to attract learners from across the country as demand for technical and vocational education rises.

The announcement of the September intake comes as Kenya continues to prioritize TVET education as a key driver of industrialization, innovation, and youth employment, with the government encouraging more young people to pursue skills-based training.