The National Assembly Committee on Education has urged relevant government bodies to take immediate action and repossess land that was grabbed from Kitale National Polytechnic, stressing that the recovery of the approximately 50-acre parcel is crucial for supporting the institution’s expansion plans.
Speaking while he led the committee on a tour of the institution, Chairperson Julius Melly emphasized the critical need to recover nearly 50 acres of land to support the polytechnic’s expansion amid increasing student enrollment and mounting infrastructure pressure.
“We recognize that the council has been addressing this issue, but we also lend our support to the urgent call for the government to expedite efforts to recover the land that has been unlawfully taken over by private developers,” he said.
Last year, the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Esther Mworia, announced a comprehensive plan to recover the grabbed land.
Mworia directed the area county commissioner Gideon Oyagi to work with the polytechnic's management to ensure that the encroached land is recovered.
“Once the commissioner has a map of the institution, he will begin survey work to ensure that all the land that was grabbed is returned, either willingly or through eviction for those who refuse,” said the principal secretary.
She stated that the grabbing of public land undermines institutions and hinders their ability to serve their mandates effectively, reiterating President William Ruto’s mandate to recover all grabbed lands across the country.
The Tinderet Member of Parliament commended the institution for its exemplary efforts in advancing the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, highlighting its successful partnerships with industries that ensure students gain practical experience and are well-equipped to enter the job market upon graduation.
“The Kitale National Polytechnic has set a remarkable example in advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. Through its strong industry partnerships, the institution is providing students with invaluable hands-on experience, ensuring they are not only educated but fully prepared to thrive in the job market,” he said.
The MP also praised the polytechnic for its active role in the implementation of TVET programs, highlighting the institution’s successful collaborations with various industries, ensuring that students acquire practical experience and are well-prepared for the workforce after graduation.
“TVET is a cornerstone for industrial growth, innovation, and skills development,” Melly noted, emphasizing its importance in equipping the workforce with the necessary skills to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
He highlighted Kitale Polytechnic as a model for how educational institutions can align their goals with the country’s broader development objectives, while also praising the polytechnic for its achievements in innovation, research, and development, especially in the large-scale fabrication of farm tools.
The MP also highlighted the institution's well-equipped garage, which serves both educational and community needs by offering mechanical training and providing affordable repair services to local residents.
Despite these successes, he observed that the polytechnic is facing challenges related to overcrowded classrooms and lecture halls, especially with the anticipated increase in student population from 8,000 to 12,000.
"We are committed to ensuring that additional infrastructure is put in place to accommodate this growth," Melly assured, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to providing adequate facilities for the expanding student body.
Addressing concerns over the new student funding formula, Melly acknowledged the challenges some students are facing in securing financial support for their education and expressed a commitment to finding solutions to ease the burden.
He also touched on the challenges related to modular training and the implementation of dual training, which requires close cooperation between educational institutions and industries, highlighting the need for stronger partnerships to ensure effective skill development and workforce readiness.
Additionally, Melly emphasized the importance of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to support the Jua Kali sector, enabling skilled workers without formal education to be recognized, certified, and given opportunities for further growth and development.
"We also encourage the development of programs in cosmetology, an area with growing demand," he added, noting the potential for job creation and economic growth within the sector.
The Chief Principal, Dr. Tom Mulati, stated that the polytechnic continues to lead in recognizing prior learning, with 800 individuals showing interest in the program. Of these, 295 were admitted, and 195 have successfully completed their qualifications.
"This initiative has been instrumental in recognizing and accrediting skills gained outside traditional education systems. It provides an inclusive approach that addresses the diverse needs of our society, empowering individuals to advance their careers and contribute meaningfully to the economy," said Dr. Mulati.