In a major push towards sustainability and cost-efficiency, the Kenyan government has announced a landmark initiative to solarize all Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across the country. The project, a collaboration with KCB Bank, aims to significantly reduce electricity costs and promote the adoption of clean, renewable energy within these critical training facilities.
The announcement was made by the TVET Principal Secretary, Dr. Esther Thaara, during a graduation ceremony at Nkabune Technical Training Institute in Meru County.
PS Thaara emphasized that the solarization project is a key part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the education sector. By harnessing solar power, institutions can slash their operational expenses, freeing up crucial funds that can be redirected towards improving the quality of training and resources for students.
Beyond the solar initiative, the PS issued a powerful challenge to TVET institutions, urging them to embrace innovation and self-reliance. She specifically encouraged them to move away from over-reliance on the Department of Public Works for the design and construction of workshops.
“Tap into the expertise of your own civil engineering students to handle such projects,” Dr. Thaara stated. This approach, she noted, would provide students with invaluable hands-on experience while simultaneously building institutional capacity and reducing costs.
While acknowledging the support from the National Government, the Principal Secretary called on TVET institutions to remain productive and self-sustaining as they await funding. She stressed that creativity and initiative are not just beneficial but essential for the sector’s growth and long-term viability.
This nationwide solarization project signals a transformative step for Kenya’s TVET sector. It represents a commitment to:
Environmental Stewardship: Reducing the carbon footprint of educational institutions.
Financial Prudence: Lowering overheads to make training more affordable and efficient.
Practical Learning: Creating living laboratories for students in fields like electrical engineering, renewable energy, and construction.
This initiative, coupled with the push for institutional self-reliance, is set to create a new, dynamic model for technical training in Kenya.
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