Meru: Karumo Technical Training Institute (TTI) has been ranked the top institution in the eastern region and fifth nationally, in a recent annual survey, a move that marks a significant milestone in its academic and administrative excellence. The survey, which was conducted last week, evaluated institutions based on key performance indicators including student enrollment, academic consistency, and absence of perennial student strikes.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Institute Principal Ms. Florah Kanyua attributed the success to a culture of discipline and goal-setting among both trainers and trainees. "Our trainers set achievable targets and we work diligently as a team to achieve them. The institute recorded a mean score of 92 percent last year in November and we have consistently maintained our performance between 80 to 85 percent," said Ms. Kanyua.
Located 23 kilometers from Meru town, she added, the institute benefits from a serene learning environment, free from urban distractions. "Young people are usually obstructed by various activities that go on in towns but ours is a different scenario since we are far away from any town," said Ms. Kanyua. She emphasized the importance of proactive student engagement, noting that they usually listen to their students and address their concerns before they escalate to issues like strikes.
The institution also boasts well-equipped workshops and a team of qualified trainers retooled in the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum, ensuring students acquire industry-relevant skills. With a student population of 7,312, all of whom reside out of the school, the institute has become an economic pillar for the surrounding community. "Learners reside in locally constructed apartments and consume locally produced food, boosting local businesses and fostering harmonious coexistence," said Ms. Kanyua.
She further noted that the economic impact of the student body has contributed to a reduction in poverty levels in the area. "Our trainers and trainees are also focused and committed to maintaining the standards set by their predecessors and therefore continue to work hard all the time," Ms. Kanyua added. Deputy Principal in charge of administration, Mr. Mathews Nkarichia, praised the staff and students for their dedication and urged them to continue striving for excellence.