The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP) has taken a significant step towards expanding international employment opportunities for Kenyan skilled workers following an engagement with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) focused on strengthening labour mobility pathways from Kenya to Germany.

The GIZ delegation, led by Mr. Horst Bauernfeind, GIZ Project Manager, was received by Mr. Paul Seurey, Deputy Principal – Administration, and Mrs. Penninah Ogutu, Deputy Principal – Academics, who represented the Chief Principal.

The engagement brought together key TENP officials, including Mr. Jared Lagat, Industrial Linkages Officer; Mr. David Chepkang'or, International Partnerships Coordinator; Mr. Albert Odulla, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Coordinator; Ms. June Ketter, German Language Trainer; and Academic Heads of Departments.

At the centre of the discussions was the potential to collaborate in preparing and connecting skilled TVET graduates with employment opportunities in Germany. The partnership discussions placed particular emphasis on Hospitality, Landscaping, Construction and Warehouse Logistics—sectors with potential demand for skilled workers.

The engagement highlighted the importance of equipping graduates with not only technical and vocational competencies, but also the complementary skills required to successfully navigate international labour markets.

Key areas discussed included industry linkages, recognition of prior learning, German language preparation, market-driven skills development and international employment pathways.

For TENP, the initiative presents an opportunity to strengthen the institution's role in producing globally competitive graduates whose skills respond to evolving labour market demands beyond Kenya's borders.

The collaboration also underscores the growing importance of strategic partnerships between Kenyan TVET institutions and international organisations in creating structured and sustainable pathways for skilled workers seeking opportunities abroad.

As Kenya continues to invest in technical and vocational education and training, initiatives linking graduates directly to international labour markets could provide young skilled professionals with new career opportunities while responding to workforce needs in destination countries.

The TENP-GIZ engagement therefore marks a promising milestone in building stronger bridges between skills development and international employment, with Germany emerging as a potential destination for qualified Kenyan TVET graduates.

Building Skills. Connecting Talent. Creating Pathways to Germany.