Kenya Coast National Polytechnic (KCNP),is implementing the Dual TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) training programme. This approach involves a balanced training: 50% in the industry and 50% in the educational institution. This dual-training model ensures that students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills thereby enhancing their employability upon completion of the courses.
The training block is currently ongoing at the African Marine and General Engineering Company Ltd which absorbed nine (9) of the inaugural cohort of students. The CEO of the company, who also serves as a member of the Industry Advisory Board, brings valuable insights and expertise to the training program, ensuring its alignment with industry needs and standards. Other industries that have absorbed the students in the Maritime, Shipping and Engineering sector include Isuzu EA Ltd, Kenya Navy base, Transpares Ltd and Amazon. The students at the Kenya Navy base are undertaking their industry practical training in Marine Welding. The industries in the Hospitality sector include Voyager Beach Hotel, Nyali Sun Africa Hotel, English Point, Nyali Golf Club, Mombasa Beach Hotel among others.
The Kenya Coast National Polytechnic has taken a significant stride in enhancing its position in Marine Transport and Port Logistics by developing two preliminary Competency Based curricula in collaboration with the African Marine and General Engineering Company Ltd. These curricula are Marine Welding Level 4 and Marine Welding and Fabrication Level 5. These curricula aim to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the Maritime sector. The courses have received approval from the Technical Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA). It is worth noting that Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), the regulator in the Maritime affairs, was also involved in the curriculum development process.
By Magdalene Kituku, EASTRIP – Industry Liaison Officer at Kenya Coast Polytechnic College
