Eldoret National Polytechnic Launches KOICA/GIZ-Donated Protective Gear to Enhance Trainee Safety

By Elvis Wasike

The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP) has strengthened its commitment to quality technical and vocational training following the handover and launch of the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) donated by KOICA/GIZ to improve trainee safety during practical training and industrial attachment.

The milestone was marked on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, when the institution’s Chief Principal, Dr Charles Koech, officially handed over the protective equipment and launched its use, underscoring the institution’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for skills development.

The donation is expected to enhance the protection of trainees participating in industrial training, where they gain practical experience and apply classroom knowledge in real workplace settings.

Speaking during the event, Dr Koech expressed sincere appreciation to KOICA/GIZ for the valuable partnership and for providing quality protective gear that will enable trainees to undertake practical workplace learning with greater safety and confidence.

He noted that access to appropriate Personal Protective Equipment is an important component of effective technical training, particularly in programmes that involve practical work, machinery, tools and industrial environments.

The protective gear will help strengthen safety measures as trainees prepare for the world of work, where adherence to occupational health and safety standards is essential.

The initiative also highlights the importance of partnerships between technical training institutions and development organisations in improving the quality of training and ensuring that learners acquire skills in environments that prioritise their wellbeing.

For trainees enrolled in the Dual Technical and Vocational Education and Training (Dual TVET) programme, the donation represents an important boost to workplace-based learning, which combines institutional instruction with practical experience in industry.

The approach enables trainees to develop technical competencies while gaining exposure to real work environments, helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and the demands of employers.

Through Dual TVET, trainees have an opportunity to develop practical skills, understand workplace expectations and build the confidence required to transition into employment or establish their own enterprises.

The provision of protective equipment is therefore an important step towards ensuring that practical training is conducted with due consideration for safety as learners interact with equipment, tools and workplace processes.

TENP continues to strengthen its focus on hands-on learning, industry collaboration and the development of market-relevant skills as part of its broader mission to prepare graduates for the changing demands of the labour market.

The institution has increasingly positioned practical skills development and collaboration with industry partners as key pillars of its training model, recognising that employers require graduates who possess both theoretical knowledge and the ability to perform tasks competently in real working environments.

The partnership with KOICA/GIZ further demonstrates the role that development partners can play in supporting technical and vocational education through interventions that improve training conditions and equip learners with the resources they need to succeed.

Beyond enhancing trainee protection, the initiative is expected to contribute to the development of a competent, skilled and industry-ready workforce capable of supporting Kenya’s economic and industrial growth.

As the country continues to emphasise technical and vocational education as a pathway to employment, entrepreneurship and industrial development, investments in trainee safety and practical learning remain essential to producing graduates who can respond effectively to industry needs.

Dr Koech’s leadership at the institution continues to focus on strengthening training quality, promoting partnerships and ensuring that learners acquire relevant skills that can translate into meaningful employment opportunities.

TENP has reaffirmed its commitment to excellence in training and the promotion of practical learning, while acknowledging KOICA/GIZ for investing in trainee safety, skills development and the preparation of a competent workforce.

The institution continues to invite prospective trainees to pursue technical and vocational courses that equip them with practical knowledge and professional skills.

Under its guiding message, TENP encourages learners to take advantage of technical education opportunities and prepare for a future driven by innovation, competence and hands-on expertise.

“Choose TENP. Acquire Skills. Shape Your Future!”