The Eldoret National Polytechnic is making waves in Kenya's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector, having recorded major institutional milestones under the leadership of Chief Principal Dr. Charles Koech. Celebrating his third year in office, Dr. Koech reflected on a transformative period in which the Polytechnic has risen to national prominence as a hub of skills development, industry partnership, and inclusive education.
Speaking from his office at the institution’s main campus, Dr. Koech thanked the broader Polytechnic community for their unwavering support over the past three years. “I extend my deepest gratitude to the staff, students, parents, and all stakeholders who have stood with us on this journey,” he said. “The last three years have been both challenging and rewarding, and I am proud of what we have achieved together. The Eldoret National Polytechnic is now a recognized leader in delivering quality, practical education to our youth and empowering communities through technical skills.”
A Pioneer in Recognizing Prior Learning (RPL)
One of the Polytechnic's most significant achievements is its pioneering work in Recognizing Prior Learning (RPL). As a trailblazer in this initiative, Eldoret National Polytechnic has already certified over 300 individuals through RPL—a system that formally acknowledges skills acquired outside traditional classroom settings. These certifications validate the competencies of artisans, informal sector workers, and self-taught professionals, allowing them to participate more fully in the formal economy.
“In 2024 alone, we facilitated close to 100 RPL certifications, including website developers and computer designers based in Kakuma,” said Dr. Koech. “These assessments were carried out in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and supported by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA), along with other industry regulators. This is a life-changing opportunity for many Kenyans who possess market-ready skills but lack formal documentation.”
Industry Linkages and Local Partnerships
The success of the RPL program is rooted in strong partnerships, notably with the Jua Kali Association in Uasin Gishu County. An established Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Polytechnic and the association has facilitated collaboration in identifying skilled individuals for certification.
“This partnership has been a game-changer,” noted Dr. Koech. “The Jua Kali sector forms the backbone of our informal economy, and recognizing their skills through RPL not only boosts individual livelihoods but also contributes to the broader goal of national development.”
Status as a National Qualification Awarding Institution
Another landmark milestone is the recent accreditation of Eldoret National Polytechnic as a National Qualification Awarding Institution (NQAI). This status gives the Polytechnic the authority to develop its own curriculum, tailored to the evolving needs of the job market. In collaboration with Industry Advisory Committees—comprising professionals, employers, and industry regulators—the institution is now directly involved in designing occupational standards and translating them into practical, industry-aligned curricula.
“Being recognized as an NQAI is both a great honor and a great responsibility,” said Dr. Koech. “We are now actively involved in the entire training lifecycle—from designing courses to certifying our graduates. This level of autonomy allows us to be more responsive to market demands and to innovate in how we deliver technical training.”
A Tradition of Sports Excellence
Beyond academics and skills training, Eldoret National Polytechnic has earned a stellar reputation in sports and extracurricular activities. The institution continues to shine in athletics, with its students consistently qualifying for national competitions. This May, the Polytechnic will be represented at the National Athletics Championship, following strong performances at the Northrift regional competition held in Iten.
“We take pride in the holistic development of our students,” said Dr. Koech. “Education is not just about what happens in the classroom; it’s also about nurturing talent and character.”
Among the standout athletes is Marion Nyabiba, a celebrated middle-distance runner who recently returned from Austria, where she was on a sports scholarship. Marion is now back at the Polytechnic to complete her studies, and she remains a source of inspiration for both her peers and the institution’s broader community.
Invitation to the Youth: Enroll and Build Your Future
As Eldoret National Polytechnic continues to expand its academic offerings and infrastructural capacity, Dr. Koech extended a heartfelt invitation to young Kenyans across the country to consider TVET education as a viable and rewarding path.
“There are thousands of young people out there who have not had the opportunity to pursue higher education. I want them to know that we are here for them,” he said. “We offer a wide array of accredited programs—from engineering and ICT to hospitality and business studies. Our doors are open, and we are ready to guide them toward a successful future.”
Prospective students are encouraged to apply through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) portal or visit the Polytechnic’s official website for more information. Walk-in visits are also welcome for those who prefer face-to-face consultations.
Looking Ahead
With a strong foundation in place, The Eldoret National Polytechnic is poised for even greater achievements. Future plans include expanding digital infrastructure, enhancing research and innovation capacity, and increasing international collaboration to give students global exposure and competitiveness.
Dr. Koech concluded, “We are not just training for today—we are preparing our students for tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities. As an institution, we remain committed to excellence, inclusion, and empowerment.”
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