The Kiambu National Polytechnic (KINAP) yesterday celebrated its 21st graduation milestone as over 2,000 students received diplomas, certificates, and artisan qualifications across seven specialized skill areas.
The ceremony, held at the institution’s main campus, showcased the polytechnic’s evolution into a leading national center for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Mr. Joseph Njau, TVETs Secretary, delivered a keynote on behalf of Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba, EBS. The CS commended KINAP for its visionary leadership and alignment with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
“TVET excellence focuses on developing relevant skills, innovative approaches, and entrepreneurial opportunities,” the CS stated. “These graduates are not merely job seekers; they are job creators prepared to address gaps in our modern industrial landscape.”
The CS emphasized that the Fourth Industrial Revolution requires a workforce capable of transforming products and services. He noted that KINAP’s Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) approach ensures graduates demonstrate practical competence beyond academic qualifications.
A statement from Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, Principal Secretary for the State Department of TVET, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to formalizing skills through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program.
“We celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit characteristic of modern TVET,” Dr. Muoria’s message stated. “Sustainable development relies on individuals who apply their skills responsibly to benefit their communities.”
KINAP Chief Principal Mr. Sammy K. Waititu expressed pride in the institution’s growth since its upgrade from an Institute of Science and Technology to a National Polytechnic. He highlighted key achievements:
As a Qualification Awarding Body, KINAP now independently assesses and certifies its trainees according to national standards.
Infrastructure: The institution features a functional Industrial Mechatronics Complex with an upcoming Hospitality Complex.
Research & Sports: In 2025, KINAP won the KATTI Nairobi Region Research and Knowledge Management fairs and achieved top national positions in badminton and handball.
Environmental Impact: Following presidential directives, the polytechnic planted over 26,000 trees in 2025 and produced nearly 40,000 seedlings.
“Adhering to our motto, ‘Skills for Self-Reliance,’ we have prepared graduates to contribute meaningfully to national development,” Mr. Waititu stated. “We are also training 150 RPL students, recognizing individuals with practical experience but lacking formal qualifications.”
Addressing the 2,000-plus graduates, speakers urged them to maintain high ethical standards as they enter the workforce.
“Your certificate is valuablebut your attitude will determine how far you go,” the CS reminded them. “Your success is personalbut your responsibility extends to the nation.”
The ceremony concluded with a message of gratitude to parents and guardians for their financial and moral support. The Class of 2025 now carries Kenya’s industrial future, prepared to address challenges in food security, renewable energy, and ICT.