On April 24, 2025, The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP) was delighted to welcome a high-ranking delegation from the German Embassy and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ). The visit formed part of an ongoing collaboration aimed at enhancing the delivery and impact of the Dual Training Program, a model that combines theoretical classroom instruction with hands-on industry experience.
The visiting team was warmly received by Mr. Chemitei, the Dean of Students, who represented the Chief Principal during the visit. He was joined by other senior officers from TENP who guided the delegation throughout the day’s activities. The presence of the German delegation underscored the growing ties between Kenyan and German institutions in the area of technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
A Tour Through Innovation and Practical Learning
The visit began with a comprehensive tour of TENP’s technical workshops, where the delegation observed firsthand how students are engaging in practical training in various fields such as automotive engineering, electrical installation, agribusiness, and mechanical technology. The guests were particularly impressed by the integration of modern tools and techniques within the curriculum, a clear indication that TENP is committed to equipping its trainees with industry-relevant skills.
During the tour, Madam Alena, who represented the German Ambassador, and Mr. Horst Bauernfeind, the Programme Manager at GIZ, engaged directly with students and trainers. They asked questions about the program’s implementation, challenges faced, and the outcomes observed since its rollout. The interactive session fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas and perspectives, highlighting the mutual learning benefits of the international partnership.
Strengthening Industry Linkages: Visit to Willens Farm
Following the workshop tour, the delegation proceeded to Willens Farm, one of TENP’s key partner institutions in the implementation of the Dual Training Program. The farm serves as a practical training site for students in agricultural and animal husbandry courses.
At Willens Farm, the delegation was taken through the various training modules offered to students, which include sustainable farming practices, animal health, dairy management, and agri-entrepreneurship. This partnership allows students to gain real-world experience in a working environment while still under the guidance of their instructors.
The German team commended this model of cooperation between academia and industry, noting that it mirrors the success of Germany’s own dual education system—a system that has long been credited with reducing youth unemployment and producing highly skilled workers.
Shared Commitment to Quality TVET
In his address, Mr. Chemitei expressed his appreciation for the continued support from the German government and GIZ, emphasizing that the Dual Training Program has already begun to make a meaningful impact on student outcomes and employability. He noted that such partnerships not only enhance the quality of training offered at TENP but also open up avenues for knowledge exchange, faculty development, and curriculum improvement.
Mr. Bauernfeind reaffirmed GIZ’s commitment to supporting TVET institutions like TENP in achieving their goals. He acknowledged the strides TENP has made and encouraged the institution to continue innovating and aligning its training programs with emerging industry trends.
Looking Ahead
The visit concluded with a joint reflection session where both parties expressed optimism about the future of the partnership. Plans for further collaboration, including capacity building for trainers, expansion of industry partnerships, and the potential for student exchange programs, were discussed.
As TENP continues to implement the Dual Training model, visits like this serve as a strong reminder of the value of international cooperation in education. By working together, institutions from different parts of the world can co-create solutions that not only benefit their students but also contribute to broader societal and economic development.
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