Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has announced new government investments in digital and green technologies; including artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and climate-friendly systems to align Kenya’s training with global labour market demands.
Speaking during the 6th graduation ceremony of Meru National Polytechnic, CS Ogamba said the government is accelerating competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), enhancing digital innovation, and strengthening industry partnerships to ensure trainees gain practical, job-ready skills.
“Our focus has shifted from what learners know to what they can do,” he said, adding that CBET equips students with competencies that meet industry standards.
Meru National Polytechnic Chief Principal Dr. Mutembei Kigige highlighted the institution’s growth to more than 10,000 trainees and urged graduates to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship instead of relying solely on formal employment.
On Monday, December 8, 2025, during the ceremony that took place at the institution’s graduation pavilion, more than 3300 learners acquired certificates and Diplomas in different faculties.
Ogamba outlined government priorities for the TVET sector, including full CBET rollout, expansion of the Dual Training Model linking classrooms with industry, and scaling up the Recognition of Prior Learning programme for skilled but uncertified youth.
He praised the polytechnic for advancing these reforms and for its innovations such as the MERPOL banana flour processing unit, an automatic smart bin, and a solar agribusiness dryer. He also cited the institution’s strong performance in national TVET fairs and robotics competitions.
The polytechnic has implemented CBET in 47 departments, launched an E-Learning Centre and ODeL studio, adopted digital learning boards, and expanded virtual reality training. It has also grown income-generating projects and upgraded infrastructure, including new workshops, smart classrooms, solar installations, and an ongoing multi-storey administration block.
“We are equipping our students to be technically skilled, digitally ready, and globally competitive,” Dr. Kigige said.
Ogamba urged graduates to become problem-solvers and creators of opportunities, reaffirming the government’s commitment to funding, digital tools, and industry linkages to boost global competitiveness.
The ceremony ended with leaders congratulating the Class of 2025 and encouraging them to uphold a culture of innovation and community impact.
