By Fredrick Odiero
Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology (RIAT) has launched a driving school to address the rising demand for the course.
Speaking during the launch of the driving school, the chief principal Mrs. Maren Omondi said the driving school is meant to fill the skill gap in the country’s traffic department.
“Apart from creating a change in the transport industry, this course will provide the soft skills which are lacking in other driving schools,” said Omondi.
The Principal Secretary state department for vocational and technical training Dr Margaret Mwakima noted with satisfaction that the school had established RIAT driving school at an approximate cost Shs 6 million.
‘The move was necessitated by the demand for safe and responsible driving as well as the need to address the increasing demand for drivers’ training.’ Mwakima said.
She said that RIAT driving school will attract more students as well as enhance skill acquisition for continuing students since they will be able to get a driver’s license alongside other chosen trades.
‘The world has witnessed major advancements in science and technology with a massive shift that has signaled an industrial revolution over the last decade. The world has become a global village and a very competitive place demanding the adaption of top notch technologies in order to gain leadership in the market,’ she added.
She added the driving school will also benefit boda boda operators and generate the much needed income to the institute.
She urged the management to consider introducing refresher driving courses which will help one to become a better, safer and more confident driver.
The PS said that relearning safe driving principles would reduce the risk of road accidents.
‘Driving safely and competently save lives and money’ she noted.
Dr Mwakima said that there is need to infuse soft skills into CBET programmes arguing that the move will empower graduates to perform better and to survive in the competitive job market.
‘I urge the youth to seize this available opportunity to acquire necessary life-long skills, and competencies that will enable them compete favourably in the workplace. ‘she said.
Samwel Musumba, the Programme Director at the National Transport and Safety Authority who accompanied the PS, noted that the institution had the capacity to offer the training course.
He added that the authority would make the institution a centre of excellence in the course.
According to Musumba, the country continues to face a lot of challenges in the transport sector due to unqualified drivers and riders.
“We have people who learn to drive from home and get straight into our roads. This driving school has come at the right time,” said Musumba.
