Land that villagers rubbished now beacon of hope

The rugged terrain at Kipsinende Technical Training Institute, in Kipkelion West Constituency. [Nikko Tanui, Standard]

A piece of land measuring 22 acres that none wanted in Kipkelion West Constituency has now turned a beacon of hope for more than 400 students now minting new vocational skills on it.

Located at the top of a rocky hill at Chilchila Ward is Kipsinende Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) - a miracle - since the dream to start the institution almost died as locals were not willing to donate land.

“When we were looking for space in 2009 to nurture our young people, most land owners refused to surrender their land for the project. They told us the only available land was at the top of the hill which was good for nothing but grazing traditional herds of cattle,” says former Kipkelion MP Magerer Langat. 

The first batch of students enrolled for Information Technology and Communication in 2012 could not bear study in the remote institution that lacked permanent structures. 

But now, Kipsinende has 42 accredited courses. Besides, the government had invested Sh200 million in creating an automotive centre of excellence. The institute has new engines, transition rooms, and a spray-based system.

“The institution will offer training artisans, master craftsman technicians and technologists on the latest things on motor vehicle and transportation technology,” said Dr Kevit Desai, the Principal Secretary in the State Department of Vocational and Technical Education.

The Principal, Joseph Mibei says the institution was working with the county government to train Jua Kali artisans. “We are also working with on an MoU with Kenya Forest Research Institute so that we can begin conducting research in terms of afforestation because trees are scarce here,” he said. 

And to help the community further, Kipkelion West MP Hillary Koskei is advocating for courses in dairy farming. “The institution can start by training on artificial insemination to help improve herds of cattle in the area,” he said.