TENP Hosts High-Level KOICA Forum to Champion Green Skills, Gender Equality and Industry-Driven TVET

The Eldoret National Polytechnic has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering industry-driven, inclusive and sustainable technical education after hosting a Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) Round Table Session under the KOICA-supported Greening Dual TVET Programme.

The forum, held on July 27, brought together representatives from The Eldoret National Polytechnic, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI), Kitale National Polytechnic and industry partners to strengthen collaboration in implementing quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) that responds to the needs of industry and the green economy.

The session focused on reviewing institutional progress under the Greening Dual TVET Programme, providing technical support and developing practical Gender Action Plans to enhance the programme's long-term sustainability across participating institutions.

The workshop was facilitated by Professor Yun Jeong Kim of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), alongside Linda Cherop and Catherine Wanjiku from GFA, who guided discussions on gender-responsive budgeting, institutional development and the integration of green skills into TVET training.

The delegation was received by The Eldoret National Polytechnic Chief Principal, Dr. Charles Koech, DHL, OGW, who officially opened the workshop. Dr. Koech said the institution remains committed to strengthening partnerships that enhance the quality of technical education while equipping learners with practical skills required in today's evolving labour market.

He noted that the partnership between KOICA, GFA and Kenyan TVET institutions has played a significant role in promoting the Dual TVET model, expanding opportunities for workplace-based learning and integrating green skills into training programmes.

Dr. Koech further said that the institution appreciates the continued support from KOICA and GFA, noting that the collaboration has enabled TVET institutions to embrace innovative approaches that prepare graduates for emerging opportunities in sustainable industries and the green economy.

He emphasized that the participation of industry partners demonstrates the importance of stronger collaboration between learning institutions and employers in ensuring trainees acquire practical competencies that meet current workplace demands. According to the Chief Principal, such partnerships are key to improving graduate employability while supporting national efforts toward sustainable economic development.

The discussions also explored ways of strengthening Gender Responsive Budgeting within TVET institutions to promote equitable resource allocation, inclusive learning environments and greater participation of both men and women in technical education.

Through the continued implementation of the Dual TVET model and the integration of green courses into its curriculum, Dr. Koech said The Eldoret National Polytechnic remains focused on providing demand-driven training that equips learners with relevant technical, entrepreneurial and green skills needed for the jobs of today and the sustainable economy of the future.