By Tsozungu Kombe.
Shanzu Teachers Training College (STTC) located in Mombasa County held its 47th graduation ceremony for PI Teachers and 8th for its Business School graduands respectively.
Shanzu TTC, first established in 1967, is currently situated at Shanzu area, near Shimo la Tewa primary, along the Mombasa – Malindi road. It is built on a 45 hectare plot, 16 km North of Mombasa Island.
Shanzu Teachers’ Training College was formed through the amalgamation of Coast Teachers’ Training College, Bura Teachers’ Training College, Mutune Teachers’ Training College and Ribe Teachers’ Training College, Kilifi.
The TTC begun offering training to P1,P2, and P3 teachers in 1967. At the moment, the college has diversified its training opportunities and trains ECDE as well as Diploma and Certificate courses in business related fields.
Speaking during the graduation ceremonies, held on March 30th, 2017 within the college’s compound, Shanzu TTC Principal, Mrs Margaret Ruttoh said the institution advocates for the principles of excellence and integrity in the teaching profession as well as business studies.
“We are producing high quality teachers, equipped with the relevant skills and have undergone a rigorous academic and professional training-ready to work under any conditions,” said Mrs Ruttoh.
She said that the college’s Business School produces high quality business managers and technicians who are able to fit into the job market and take advantage of opportunities in the public and private sector.
A total of 471 students were awarded certificates during the graduation ceremony after successfully completing the two-year course. Out of this number, 386 students graduated as P1teachers while 85 students obtained certificates in various business courses.
Addressing guests at the graduation ceremony, Ruttoh said that while Shanzu remains a centre of training excellence, it has not been able to implement several infrastructural projects due to limited resources.
The college has therefore embarked on several income generating projects to supplement student fees and grants from the Ministry of Education. On the list of some of the most successful income generating projects is the business school.
“The recent commencement of phase one construction of the college’s perimeter wall around the college is as a result of funding from Ministry of Education. The project will go a long way in boosting the security as well as the image of the institution,” said Ruttoh.
She said the college is still waiting to receive more funds so as to complete the rest of the perimeter wall. Shanzu TTC is also faced with the challenge of an expanding student population, currently at 1, 500 which has stretched the institution’s facilities to the limits.
The college has inadequate dining area, a fairly equipped library and frequent power blackouts. Ruttoh is seeking for more financial support in order to provide for these facilities, including purchasing a power generator, equipping the library and expanding the dining hall.
We call upon the Government to come forward and support this institution to enable us effectively perform the responsibilities of a learning centre of this nature,” said Ruttoh.
She advised those graduating from the institution to pursue other career opportunities, including taking up parallel degree courses to upgrade their skills.
“Those graduating today should uphold professional conduct, determination and be of good moral character wherever they will be working so that we can have a prosperous nation. I also thank stakeholders in the coast region for their continued support to the TTC,” said Ruttoh.
Speaking during the ceremony, the college’s new Board of Management Chairman, Mr. Tamimi Lewa Chibororo, urged the Government to provide adequate funds to the college to enable it compete effectively with the rest.
“The Board of Management is out in making sure that the college is a centre of excellence as per the college’s Vision”, said Chibororo.
The Ministry of Education Director-General, Leah Rotich, who was the Chief Guest praised Shanzu TTC for establishing a vibrant Business School which has been generating some income to the college, whose graduands have been awarded certificates.
She also lauded the college’s strong teaching force of tutors who are dedicated and committed towards imparting relevant skills to the teacher trainees.
