Kiharu Technical College Expansion to Include New Affordable Housing Hostels

The government is intensifying its investment in technical and vocational training to bridge the skills gap in local and international labor markets. Kiharu Technical and Vocational College in Murang’a County has become a focal point of this strategy since it opened in September 2023.

In just two years, the institution has seen its enrollment climb to over 1,800 students. These learners are drawn from various parts of Kenya, reflecting a shift in how vocational pathways are perceived by the youth.

To accommodate this rapid growth, the government is currently building a student hostel through the Affordable Housing Programme. This project aims to resolve the housing shortage that often affects students who travel from outside the county.

Providing on-campus housing is seen as a way to improve student retention and ensure those from distant regions can access quality training. The construction of the hostel complements the existing academic infrastructure already in place at the campus.

Current facilities at the college include a functional ICT laboratory and specialized workshops for plumbing, mechanical, and electrical practice. These installations are designed to provide the practical, industry-relevant skills required for modern technical roles.

The college offers a broad range of programs across several departments. These include Building and Construction, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, and Business. Other departments cover ICT, Cosmetology, Hospitality, and Liberal Studies.

The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has taken a supportive role in the implementation of these projects. The department coordinates local administrative processes to ensure the works meet security and regulatory standards.

Internal Security Principal Secretary, Dr. Raymond Omollo, noted that the department facilitates the smooth delivery of infrastructure to benefit both students and the broader community. This involvement ensures that construction timelines are met without administrative bottlenecks.

President Ruto has previously emphasized that the Affordable Housing Programme is not just about residential units, but also about creating jobs for the locals. At the Kiharu site, this is evident through the integration of technical learners and local labor.

The expansion of Kiharu TVET is part of a wider national policy to empower a skilled workforce. By linking education with the Affordable Housing Programme, the government is attempting to create a sustainable ecosystem for technical training.

As the new hostel units take shape, the institution expects to increase its capacity further. This move is intended to make Kiharu a competitive hub for vocational excellence in the central region.