Plans are underway to elevate Matili Technical Training Institute (TTI) to a National Polytechnic, marking a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing reforms in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
Principal Secretary for TVET, Dr. Esther Muoria, announced the development on Friday, 17th April,2026 during the institute’s 3rd graduation ceremony held at the Matili TTI Graduation Square. She said the government is committed to upgrading the institution to national status as part of efforts to strengthen skills training and improve access to quality technical education across the country.
Dr. Muoria noted that the elevation will enhance the institution’s capacity to deliver competency-based training and align its programmes with evolving labour market needs. She emphasized that TVET institutions remain central to Kenya’s strategy of equipping young people with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
The announcement was received with excitement from graduands, parents, and education stakeholders, who welcomed it as a major boost to the region’s education sector.
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Once upgraded, Matili TTI will contribute to placing Bungoma County on the national education map as the only county expected to host three National Polytechnics. Education officials say this will strengthen the county’s role as a centre for technical training and increase access to higher-level vocational education.
Board of Governors Chairperson Prof. Okumu Bigambo welcomed the planned elevation, describing it as a major step forward in improving training standards and expanding educational opportunities. He said the institution has made steady progress under its Strategic Plan 2022–2027, which continues to guide its development agenda.
Prof. Bigambo highlighted ongoing efforts in infrastructure development and resource mobilization aimed at improving learning facilities and expanding institutional capacity. He also noted that the institute has received approval for expanded programmes designed to meet current industry demands.
He further pointed to the introduction of open and distance learning as part of efforts to widen access to education for students beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Chief Principal Judith Sande emphasized the importance of equipping graduates with skills that go beyond employment readiness. She encouraged graduands to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of success in a competitive job market.
Sande said the institution has recorded significant growth in recent years, with student enrollment rising from 350 to more than 10,000. She attributed this expansion to strengthened partnerships with both local and international institutions, which have enhanced training quality and institutional visibility.
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She reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to producing competent graduates who can contribute effectively to national development through technical skills and innovation.
Several speakers described the planned upgrade as a timely intervention that will strengthen Kenya’s TVET sector, improve training capacity, and expand opportunities for young people seeking technical and vocational education.
If implemented, the elevation of Matili TTI to a National Polytechnic is expected to increase funding, expand infrastructure, and broaden programme offerings, further reinforcing the government’s push to make technical education a key pillar of national development.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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