By Wasike Elvis
The Eldoret National Polytechnic Chief Principal, Dr. Charles Koech, OGW, led the institution’s top management, staff, and students in commemorating the National TVET Tree Planting Week. Accompanied by the Deputy Principal (Administration & Academics), Dean of Students, Registrars, Heads of Departments, and other staff members, Dr. Koech spearheaded a tree planting exercise within the institution's grounds.
The initiative is part of preparations for the upcoming North Rift Region Tree Planting Day, scheduled for Friday, 9th May 2025, at Kessup Forest. It reflects the institution’s commitment to environmental conservation and national reforestation efforts.
In addition to the environmental drive, Eldoret National Polytechnic recently hosted a pivotal training session under the government’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program, marking a significant step in the certification of skilled but previously uncertified workers. The event drew participation from 20 institutions across the North Rift region, positioning the area as a leader in the rollout of this transformative national initiative.
Dr. Koech praised the region’s involvement, noting that it reflects serious commitment to empowering individuals with practical skills but no formal qualifications. “We are making sure no talent goes unrecognized,” he stated.
The RPL program aims to formally assess and certify able workers across the country, opening doors to employment and further education. According to Stanley Maindi, Director of the RPL Delivery Unit, over 5,170 artisans have already been assessed through the program, many of whom have secured jobs as a result.
Local TVET institutions will serve as examination centers, and the resulting certifications will be recognized both nationally and internationally.
Meshack Opuora, Director of TVET, emphasized that the program targets 15 million skilled Kenyans who lack formal employment. While the certification may come at a cost, the long-term benefits for both youth and older citizens are expected to be immense.
In regions like Nyanza, the program will also benefit those with blue economy skills such as fishing, boat maintenance, and fish processing—enhancing livelihoods and local economies.
The program, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, is a key part of the government's bottom-up economic transformation agenda and is rapidly gaining momentum across the country.
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