Maasai National Polytechnic has started applying Module programs as directed by the State Department for Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) aimed at ensuring that graduates can perfectly fit in the employment world.
Module teaching involves breaking down courses or program into smaller, manageable units called modules.
Maasai polytechnic Principal Dr. Rosbella Chukwu said the program allows trainees to focus on specific skills or knowledge areas and potentially progress at their own pace, with the option to specialize or exit at various levels.
Speaking during sensitization of trainers on the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) module training, the principal said the new program allows trainees to transition to the job market in a shorter period of time; they will be able to even sponsor their education.
The trainees will now be able to undertake their preferred course in modules and get a certification for every level undertaken, the certificate will allow them enter into the job market using the skills acquired or proceed with the course.
The institution will adopt a micro-credential system to assess and certify learners. This system will be used to accredit learners undertaking short training programs.
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“The new program allows to teach them for three months and the industry teaches them for three months then they come back , then we match skills acquired in class and industry , we don’t teach what the industry has already thought them ”said Dr Chukwu
The past system allowed students to be in the industry after more than a year of training in college, which used to be frustrating, many students now want to spend shortest time in college and acquire skills.
‘The module 1 program will see trainees be in industry after three months ,module 4 will allow students be in class for six months , for diploma they will be in the industry two times,’ she said.
The polytechnic is coming up with new courses in partnership with other polytechnic, they are partnering with Nyeri Polytechnic in mechanical engineering and Kabete Polytechnic in electrical engineering.
The polytechnic is also partnering with Finland’s Häme University of Applied Sciences whereby students will be offering certificate in electronics.
This year Maasai recorded highest enrollment of students in history of the institution, it has registered over 3,500 new students.
“We target to have 5,000 by the end of this year and it is possible, we are partnering with so many religious institutions and NGOs,” she noted.
The institutions works with administrations including elected leaders in ensuring more students are enrolled in the institutions. Girls are encouraged to take up courses such as electrical engineering.
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“The Maasai community is now taking more girls to school we encourage them to bring more girls, this will empower them to contribute to growth of the county and the country at large, “the principal noted
The institution has offered skills that have enabled the trainees to be either self-employed or joined salaried employed in public or private sector as skilled technical personnel.
The polytechnic has embraced reforms aimed at improving curricula to align it with the vision 2030 government transformative drive.
It has qualified and dedicated trainers, well equipped library and E-library, fairly equipped workshops for all the areas of training.
The facilities and personnel ensures that learners are well equipped with skills and knowledge in their areas of study.
The polytechnic is also equipped with a state-of-the-art computer lab under the Jitume Digital Hubs initiative providing the youth with access to digital services, digital skills,, and opportunities to learn, enable them take advantage of technology for job creation
Established in 1986, The Maasai National Polytechnic is the successor to the Maasai Technical Training Institute (MTTI) it is the only polytechnic in Kajiado County, it is located between Kajiado town and the county headquarters.
By Obegi Malack
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