The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP) has taken a significant step towards advancing gender equality, inclusion and the well-being of trainees following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with African Christian Outreach (ACO).

The partnership, formalised on Thursday, October 8, 2026, seeks to strengthen collaboration in mainstreaming gender and promoting coordinated efforts towards eliminating gender inequalities within the institution and the wider community.

The agreement underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing gender-related challenges, sharing expertise and fostering an inclusive environment where all trainees can access opportunities, participate fully in institutional activities and pursue their academic and professional aspirations without discrimination.

The institution’s Chief Principal, Dr. Charles Koech, hosted a delegation from African Christian Outreach led by its Director, Mr. Victor Otieno. The delegation also included Madam Anne Indiazi, Coordinator of the New Beginning Crisis Pregnancy Center, and Madam Deng Apok, a Counsellor at the Crisis Pregnancy Center.

The engagement brought together institutional leadership and key personnel responsible for trainee welfare, gender mainstreaming and research and development, reflecting the importance of a coordinated approach in promoting equality and strengthening support systems within the polytechnic.

Also in attendance were Mr. Reuben Chemitei, Dean of Trainees; Madam Jane Marindich, Deputy Dean of Trainees and Gender Lead; and Dr. Fredrick Agengo, Research and Development (R&D) Coordinator.

Their participation highlighted the institution’s commitment to integrating gender considerations into its programmes, policies and institutional practices while strengthening collaboration with organisations that bring relevant experience and expertise to gender-related interventions.

Strengthening Gender Mainstreaming Through Strategic Partnerships

Gender mainstreaming is an important component of building an inclusive learning environment. It involves considering the needs, experiences and interests of different genders in institutional policies, programmes and decision-making processes to promote fairness and equal opportunities.

Through its partnership with ACO, The Eldoret National Polytechnic is reaffirming the need for collective responsibility in addressing gender inequalities and strengthening efforts aimed at promoting the welfare of trainees.

The collaboration provides an opportunity for the two institutions to draw on their respective areas of expertise and work towards a common goal of fostering an environment that recognises dignity, equality and respect for all.

The involvement of the New Beginning Crisis Pregnancy Center also brings a counselling and support-services perspective to the engagement. Such expertise is relevant to discussions on trainee welfare, awareness and access to appropriate support for individuals facing personal and social challenges.

By bringing together education-sector leadership and personnel working in outreach and counselling, the partnership demonstrates the value of collaboration in addressing issues that may affect the well-being, participation and educational experiences of trainees.

Promoting a Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment

Technical and vocational education and training institutions play an important role in equipping learners with practical skills, professional competencies and knowledge for the world of work. Creating an environment where all trainees feel respected, safe and supported is essential to achieving these objectives.

Gender inequalities can affect participation, access to opportunities and the overall learning experience. Addressing these challenges requires deliberate institutional efforts, awareness, appropriate support mechanisms and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

The MoU between TENP and ACO reflects a shared recognition that promoting gender equality requires sustained engagement rather than isolated interventions.

Through strategic cooperation, institutions and partner organisations can strengthen awareness, encourage positive attitudes, support inclusive practices and contribute to the development of systems that respond to gender-related concerns.

The partnership also reinforces the importance of involving different departments and institutional leaders in gender mainstreaming. The participation of the Dean of Trainees, Deputy Dean of Trainees and Gender Lead, and the R&D Coordinator demonstrates the relevance of integrating trainee welfare, gender considerations and institutional development into a coordinated approach.

A Renewed Commitment to Collective Responsibility

The signing of the MoU marks another milestone in The Eldoret National Polytechnic’s efforts to build strategic relationships that support its institutional objectives and contribute to the welfare of its trainees.

By working with African Christian Outreach, the polytechnic is emphasising the importance of shared responsibility, collaboration and the exchange of knowledge in tackling gender inequalities.

The partnership further highlights the role that organisations outside the education sector can play in complementing institutional efforts through relevant expertise, outreach and support services.

As gender equality remains an important consideration in education and social development, partnerships of this nature provide a platform for stakeholders to work together towards practical, sustainable and inclusive solutions.

The collaboration reaffirms TENP’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships, leveraging shared expertise and promoting coordinated action towards eliminating gender inequalities.

The Eldoret National Polytechnic remains committed to advancing an inclusive institutional culture where equality, dignity, respect and the well-being of every trainee are recognised as essential to educational success and sustainable development.

The MoU signing on October 8, 2026, stands as a testament to the value of collaboration in strengthening gender mainstreaming and advancing a shared vision of a more equitable and inclusive learning environment.