The Kenya Association of Technical Training Institutions (KATTI) National TVET Fairs, Skills Competition, Robotics Contest, and Research Paper Presentation 2025 ended on a high note, marking a colorful celebration of innovation and talent.
The week-long event, held at the Kenya Coast National Polytechnic and later culminating at the scenic Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa, brought together Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions from across the country.
At least 14 competitive categories were showcased, with each institution putting its best foot forward amid a blend of creativity, innovation, and fanfare.
This year’s theme, “TVET for Sustainable Development: The Role of Science, Technology and Innovation for Economic Resilience,” underscored the importance of practical skills and innovation in driving Kenya’s economic transformation.
Running concurrently with the National Season Two Balm Gamers 2025, the event highlighted the diverse talents within Kenya’s youth from robotics and research to gaming and digital creativity.
Coast Regional TVET Director Peter Mwangi, who graced the closing ceremony, lauded the institutions for their active participation, noting that such platforms are essential in nurturing the country’s next generation of innovators.
“These competitions are crucial in showcasing the abilities and technical skills of young Kenyans. They not only inspire creativity but also prepare our youth to be problem-solvers in today’s dynamic economy,” Mwangi said.
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Mwangi also reiterated that the event was not merely about declaring winners, but rather about showcasing the diverse talents and innovations of participants who had invested their time, energy, and creativity in the competition.
He emphasized that the primary goal of the TVET fairs and contests was to nurture skills, inspire collaboration, and encourage continuous learning among students.
“This platform is not just about who takes the top prize. It’s about recognizing effort, innovation, and the commitment of every participant who contributes to building a skilled and resilient nation,” Mwangi said.
Chief Principal of the Coast National Polytechnic, Geoffrey Andama, said the competitions were also aimed at dispelling the long-held misconception that TVET institutions are meant for academic failures.
He noted that while many Kenyans are familiar with university education, few understand the transformative role of TVETs in equipping learners with hands-on skills that drive national development.
“For a long time, TVETs have been misunderstood as institutions that only accommodate failures, which is not true,” Andama said.
He said TVETs are very significant in nurturing innovators, creators, and solution providers who are key to Kenya’s industrial and economic growth.
Andama added that by holding the competitions openly, they aim to change the negative narrative and help the public appreciate the true value of TVET education.
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He said showcasing various innovations, research projects, and practical skills in an open forum helps demonstrate that TVET institutions are centres of excellence driving creativity and technological advancement.
“By organizing such competitions in the open, we want to show Kenyans that there is so much more in TVET education than they think. Our learners are innovators shaping the future,” he said.
National Chairperson of KATTI, Research and Knowledge Management, Mabel Wanjala, praised the organizers for hosting a well-coordinated and impactful event, noting that it was not only educational and inspiring but also a significant boost to the coastal tourism economy.
She revealed that the competition attracted over 3,000 guests from different parts of the country, a turnout that positively impacted local businesses in Mombasa.
“This event was both informative and economically beneficial. Bringing thousands of guests to the Coast for several days has greatly supported the hospitality sector and promoted Mombasa as a hub for educational and cultural exchange,” Wanjala said.
She further urged participants and guests to extend their stay at the Coast and take time to explore the region’s rich culture, cuisine, and scenic attractions.
By Mwajabe Omar
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