The Eastern Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP) continues to make significant strides in transforming technical and vocational education in Kenya, with Kisumu National Polytechnic emerging as a central player in advancing textile technology and manufacturing training.
In a statement released today, Principal Secretary for Interior Dr. Raymond Omolo lauded the ongoing development of the Textile Training Hub at Kisumu National Polytechnic, which has been designated as the Regional Flagship TVET Institute for Textile Technology (RFTITT) under the manufacturing sector.
“This groundbreaking initiative, led by the World Bank Group in collaboration with the National Government, reflects our commitment to youth empowerment, industrial growth, and regional integration,” said Dr. Omolo.
Strategically located in Western Kenya, the polytechnic’s positioning taps into the region’s rich heritage in cotton farming, textile milling, and garment production—making it a natural choice for building a skilled workforce for the textile industry.
At the heart of this initiative is the learning factory model, which integrates classroom instruction with hands-on industrial training, ensuring that graduates are job-ready and industry-aligned.
“By blending theory with practical experience, we are not just teaching skills—we are building a pipeline of innovators and industry leaders who will transform Kenya’s textile and apparel landscape,” added the PS.
The Textile Training Hub will boast state-of-the-art infrastructure, including:
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Administrative Offices: Head of Department’s office (en suite), deputy’s office, reception, records office, staffroom, boardroom, storage room, kitchenette, janitor’s room, and accessible washrooms.
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Learning & Training Facilities: 20 classrooms, 4 studio rooms, 2 textile design computer labs, 2 quality control testing labs, 2 specialized printing rooms, 5 workshops, and a research/case study room.
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Recreation & Social Amenities: Restaurant, gym, amphitheater, prayer spaces, daycare and lactation rooms.
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Accommodation: 100-bed student hostels and 100-bed hostels for exchange program participants.
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Operational Infrastructure: Generator room, secure entry and exit points, server rooms, landscaped gardens, parking areas, and service yards.
Dr. Omolo emphasized that the project aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which prioritizes manufacturing, job creation, and equitable regional development.
“This hub will not only serve Kenya, but will also be a center of excellence for students and professionals from across the Eastern Africa region. We are proud to see Kisumu take its place on the continental stage in skills development and innovation,” he concluded.
The EASTRIP initiative, which spans Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania, is designed to strengthen TVET institutions, foster regional collaboration, and prepare a workforce equipped to meet the needs of a rapidly changing economic landscape.
With construction and setup well underway, the Textile Training Hub at Kisumu National Polytechnic is set to become a model institution for industrial and skills-driven growth across Africa.
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