Ten technical colleges get Sh1bn hospitality equipment

Ten vocational institutions have received hospitality equipment worth Sh1 billion.

To boost skills development, the Ministry of Education is keen to expose students to the job market while in college.  

SH100 MILLION

Principal Secretary State Department of Vocational Training Dr Kevit Desai, on Tuesday said the equipment would enhance skilled training in the hospitality sector.

“Each of the ten institutions, which have been made centres of excellence, received equipment worth Sh100 million,” Dr Desai said.

The institutions include Sigalagala, Karen, Maasai, Tetu, Belgut, Olessos, Kenya Coast, Mabera, Kiminni and Sot.

Dr Desai said, the institutions are now fully equipped with kitchens and systems which are similar to those in modern restaurants.

He said the programme is supported by the government in partnership with the German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK).

The initiative promotes dual vocational training based on the German model.

PARTNERSHIP

The DIHK- based experts support vocational training activities of German companies, their business partners and schools.

Dr Desai said the ministry is encouraging partnerships between the hospitality industry and vocational institutions to bridge the gap between skills and employment.

“The students are being trained on high skilled curriculum that does not focus on exams,” he said.

The system encourages direct involvement and ownership of the industry in the educational process.

The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Kenya (AHK Kenya) supports the introduction of TVET courses inspired by the German dual system. 

SKILLS

AHK Kenya Country Director Maren Diale-Schellschmidt said the programme would bridge the gap between the increasing need for theoretical and practical knowledge and real world application of skills.

“The training provides young people with the right skills besides supplying companies with trained employees,” she said.

The German Deputy Ambassador to Kenya Michaael Derus said, in the last two years, his country has contributed 27 million Euros towards vocational training.  

“We are keen at training sharing our training skills to Kenyan youths,” he said.

Dr Desai said the government plans to expand vocational training in the hospitality sector.

The hospitality sector contributes up to 11 percent of the Kenya’s GDP.