Kakamega: Okame Technical Training College (TTC) from Busia and Shamberere National Polytechnic from Kakamega emerged top in the Western Kenya Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions' skills and innovations competitions. The two-day event, hosted at Sigalagala National Polytechnic in Kakamega County, saw Okame TTC scoop first position in both the skills and overall categories. Shamberere followed closely as runner-up, while Kisiwa National Polytechnic from Bungoma County secured third place after emerging best in the innovation category.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sabatia Technical and Vocational Centre (TVC) took second place in the skills category, with Sigalagala National Polytechnic ranked third. In innovations, Bungoma National Polytechnic claimed third position. Western Regional TVET Director Joseph Sunguti lauded the participating institutions and highlighted the government's introduction of a modular curriculum in middle-level colleges to enhance skill acquisition and innovation.
He explained that the modular approach breaks down larger courses into smaller, flexible units called modules. Each module focuses on a specific topic or competency, enabling learners to pursue them independently, often at their own pace, and accumulate credits. These credits can then be combined in flexible ways to achieve full qualifications or degrees. 'Modular curriculum is easier to handle because within three months you learn a skill and you can easily get a job or become self-employed,' Sunguti said.
A total of 31 institutions participated in the contest, with innovation attracting the highest interest. Twenty-seven colleges showcased their creative works, demonstrating strong appetite for practical solutions and market-driven ideas among learners. Sunguti added that Kenya has actively participated in global competitions, including the World Skills event held in Lyon, France in 2024, where Asian nations took the lion's share of awards.
The competition not only celebrated institutional excellence but also underlined the role of technical skills and innovations in improving employability and supporting Kenya's socio-economic growth.