Kandara Technical and Vocational College is situated in Murang’ County, Kandara sub-county 10km off Thika – Kenol Highway from Makenji. It is near Kiranga shopping Centre along Makenji – Kandara road. The institution sits on a 5-acre land. The institution was launched by Hon. Alice Muthoni the MP Kandara constituency on 7/8/2019 and was under mentorship of Michuki Technical Training Institute from its opening until 2/12/2021. The college enrolled its first batch of artisan and craft students on 6/9/2019 who sat for their examination in January 2020 under Kenya National Examination Council. The institution was officially opened by H. E William Samoei Ruto the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya on 6/3/2020. The institution began with eight (8) members of staff and currently has a staff establishment of sixty seven (67) members. The college is managed by a Board of Governors appointed by the Ministry of Education and it is run under the TVET Act 2013.The registration number is TVETA/PUBLIC/TVC/0054/2121A1. college trains in three curriculums namely KASNEB, NITA AND CDACC. Currently the college has 988 students studying across all our technical and business courses.
1. BUILDING DEPPRTMENT.
The The Inspiring Transformation of the Building and Civil Engineering Department at Kandara Technical and Vocational College
The Building and Civil Engineering Department at Kandara Technical and Vocational College has, over the past seven years, established itself as one of the institution’s most successful and transformative departments. Since the college was established in 2019, the department has continuously evolved from a small academic unit into a centre of excellence renowned for quality technical training, infrastructure development, research, innovation, and community service. Starting with only two academic programmes and fifty-seven trainees, the department has demonstrated that visionary leadership, dedicated staff, institutional support, and strategic partnerships can transform challenges into opportunities. Today, the department stands as a model of excellence within the TVET sector.
Expanding Academic Programmes
One of the department’s most outstanding achievements has been the expansion of academic programmes to meet the changing needs of the construction and engineering industry. From initially offering only Plumbing Levels 4 and 5 and Building Technology Level 5, the department now offers a diverse range of programmes including Civil Engineering, Building Technology (Diploma), Water Engineering, Land Survey, Architecture, Masonry, Pipe Fitting, and Tiling and Painting. This expansion has significantly increased access to technical education, enabling more young people to pursue careers within the built environment while supporting the government’s agenda of producing a skilled workforce for national development.
Remarkable Growth in Student Enrolment
Programme expansion has been accompanied by tremendous growth in enrolment. The department has grown from only 57 trainees in 2019 to above 400 trainees, making it one of the largest academic departments within Kandara Technical and Vocational College. This achievement reflects increasing confidence from students, parents, employers, and the community in the quality of training offered by the department.
Producing Competent Industry-Ready Graduates
The department has consistently focused on producing graduates equipped with practical knowledge and employable skills. Through Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), students undertake extensive practical sessions using industry-standard equipment and participate in real institutional projects. This practical exposure enables graduates to transition seamlessly into employment within construction companies, consulting firms, county governments, water agencies, surveying firms, and private practice. Many graduates have also ventured into self-employment, establishing successful businesses as contractors, survey assistants, plumbers, builders, and construction entrepreneurs.
Transformation of Engineering Workshops
A major milestone has been the successful transformation of engineering workshops into modern centers of practical learning. At the inception of the institution, many expensive Government-supplied machines remained unused because the college lacked a three-phase electricity supply and suitable workshop facilities. The department spearheaded initiatives that led to the installation of a transformer and three-phase electricity, making it possible to commission and fully utilize engineering equipment. Today, students enjoy practical training using fully operational workshops, including the Civil Engineering Workshop, Geotechnical Laboratory, Survey Equipment Laboratory, Masonry Workshop, and Computer-Aided Design Studio. These facilities have greatly enhanced practical learning and significantly improved graduate competence.
Continuous Investment in Modern Training Equipment
The continuous investment by the college administration in modern training equipment has significantly enhanced the department’s capacity to deliver quality Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET). Through the acquisition of surveying instruments, civil engineering laboratory equipment, construction tools, CAD resources, plumbing facilities, and workshop machinery, trainees have gained access to industry-standard practical training. The installation of three-phase electricity further enabled the operation of previously dormant equipment, strengthening practical learning, research, innovation, and income-generating activities. This sustained support has positioned the Building and Civil Engineering Department as one of the best-equipped engineering departments within Kandara Technical and Vocational College.
Revitalization of the Cabro Production Unit
Among the department’s flagship achievements is the revitalization of the cabro production unit. Following the installation of three-phase transformer, previously dormant cabro production machines were commissioned and are now fully operational. The unit has become a successful Income Generating Activity (IGA), producing quality paving blocks while providing trainees with practical experience in manufacturing, quality assurance, costing, production management, and entrepreneurship. The department has successfully produced and installed cabro paving at the institution’s main entrance and other partnering institutions like Mathioya TVC, Kigumo TVC among others.
Driving Institutional Infrastructure Development
The department has become the institution’s technical backbone, providing engineering expertise throughout the planning, design, construction, and supervision of major development projects. Departmental trainers have actively participated in:
Design and supervision of the new Tuition Block currently under construction.
- Construction of the Mechanical Engineering Workshops.
- Development of the Food and Beverage Training Hotel.
- Construction of the Masonry Workshop.
- Installation of computer workstations at the Jitume Digital Hub.
- Production and installation of cabro paving.
- Renovation of classrooms, offices, and workshops.
- Repair and maintenance of institutional buildings.
- Technical inspections and quality assurance of construction works.
Preparation of technical drawings, engineering advice, and project supervision. These projects have enhanced the institution’s physical infrastructure while providing students with invaluable real-world practical experience.
Research and Innovation
The department has embraced research and innovation as key drivers of quality education.
The Deputy Head of Department, who also serves as the Institution Research Coordinator, has championed research activities that encourage trainers and students to develop innovative engineering solutions.
The department has promoted:
- Sustainable construction technologies.
- Student innovation projects.
- Applied engineering research.
- Participation in institutional innovation exhibitions.
- Research proposal development.
- Evidence-based teaching and learning.
- Problem-solving through engineering innovation.
These initiatives have strengthened creativity among students while promoting continuous improvement within the department.
Strong Leadership and Dedicated Trainers
The success of the department is founded on visionary leadership and the commitment of its trainers.
The Head of Department has provided strategic direction that has resulted in programme expansion, improved infrastructure, increased enrolment, stronger industry partnerships, and enhanced quality assurance.
The Deputy Head of Department has strengthened research, innovation, academic coordination, and staff mentorship, creating a culture of continuous improvement.
Supported by approximately 17 qualified trainers, the department has cultivated a highly motivated team committed to academic excellence, professionalism, and student success.
The trainers have made significant contributions through:
- Delivering quality teaching and practical instruction.
- Supervising institutional construction projects.
- Mentoring students.
- Coordinating industrial attachments.
- Developing teaching and learning materials.
- Supporting curriculum implementation.
- Participating in institutional committees.
- Undertaking community outreach programmes.
- Conducting research and innovation.
- Promoting quality assurance and continuous improvement.
Their dedication has been instrumental in positioning the department among the institution’s leading centres of excellence.
Investment in Staff Development
The department recognizes that quality education depends on highly skilled trainers.
With support from the Principal, the Registrar Academic Affairs, and the college administration, trainers have been facilitated to pursue higher academic qualifications, attend CBET retooling programmes, participate in conferences and workshops, undertake industrial exposure, and benchmark with other institutions.
These professional development initiatives have strengthened teaching quality and ensured that the department remains responsive to technological advancements within the engineering profession.
Strategic Partnerships
The department has established strong collaborations with construction companies, consulting engineers, universities, TVET institutions, county governments, professional bodies, and industry partners.
These partnerships have created opportunities for industrial attachment, educational visits, guest lectures, staff mentorship, collaborative research, technology transfer, curriculum improvement, and graduate employment. The department has also supported the establishment of the Mechanical Engineering Department by providing technical guidance, workshop space, and mentorship during its formative years, demonstrating its commitment to institutional growth.
A Department Making a Difference
The achievements of the Building and Civil Engineering Department extend far beyond the classroom. The department has become a catalyst for institutional development, technical innovation, infrastructure growth, and community transformation.
Its journey from 57 trainees and two academic programmes to approximately 400 trainees, eight programmes, modern workshops, active research, vibrant partnerships, and major institutional construction projects reflects the dedication of its leadership, trainers, students, and the unwavering support of the college management.
Today, the department continues to inspire excellence by producing competent professionals, supporting institutional development, promoting innovation, and contributing meaningfully to Kenya’s construction and engineering sector.
The Building and Civil Engineering Department is not only building structures it is building careers, empowering communities, advancing innovation, and shaping the future of technical education in Kenya.
COSMETOLOGY DEPARTMENT.
Research and Innovation Category:
The Nyeri National Polytechnic Achievement Report (2025–2026)
- Regional Level Competitions (2025)
- 3rd Place: Rose Mary & Lemon Grass Hair Food & Body Lotion (Innovation)
- 4th Place: Coffee Scrub, Aloe Vera Hair Gel, & Avocado Lotion (Innovation)
- Skills Category Competitions
- Silver Medal (2nd Place): Acrylic Nails (Beauty Therapy)
- 4th Place: Hairdressing
- Innovation Competitions (May 2026)
- Featured Innovations:
- Avocado Scalp Nutrition Gel
- Flaxseed Molding Gel/Wax
In cosmetology departments, both hair and beauty, our trainee are exceeding expectation, with 70% mastery % 30 % proficiency.
We have also acquired digital equipment like:
- Magnifying glass
- Microblading and micro tinting machine
- Obrey spay machine
- high density, free acne machine.
Partnerships, Hair hub trichology Centre, Nairobi.
FOOD AND BEVARAGE DEPARTMENT.
The Food and Beverage Department at Kandara Technical and Vocational College has steadily grown
into one of the institution’ most vibrant and practical departments. Since the establishment of the college, the department has remained committed to producing highly skilled professionals in hospitality, catering, baking, and accommodation services through Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET).
With a strong emphasis on practical training, industry exposure, entrepreneurship, research, and innovation, the department has continued to prepare graduates who are capable of meeting the demands of the hospitality industry while also creating self-employment opportunities.
Expansion of Academic Programs.
The department has expanded its training opportunities to meet the growing needs of the hospitality industry. In addition to offering Catering and Accommodation programs, the department has introduced short courses in Baking Skills, enabling community members and trainees to acquire practical entrepreneurial skills within a short period.
These programs have widened access to technical education while equipping learners with competencies required in hotels, restaurants, bakeries, catering businesses, and other hospitality establishments.
Growth in Student Enrolment.
The introduction of new programmes and the department’ commitment to quality practical training have contributed to increased student enrolment over the years. The Catering and Accommodation programme continues to attract more learners, reflecting growing confidence in the department’ ability to provide industry-relevant training.
Income Generating Activities.
One of the department’ major achievements has been the successful establishment of Income Generating Units (IGUs). Through these initiatives, trainees actively participate in the preparation and sale of quality bakery products, including:
- Bread
- Buns
- Cupcakes
- Other confectionery products
These activities provide learners with practical experience in food production, costing, entrepreneurship, customer service, and business management while generating income that supports departmental activities.
Strengthening Practical Training Facilities.
The department has continued to improve its practical learning environment through the acquisition and utilization of modern hospitality equipment. Today, trainees benefit from hands-on training using facilities such as:
- Industrial baking ovens* Commercial blenders
- Modern kitchen equipment
- A fully operational training restaurant
- Practical catering and accommodation facilities
These investments have significantly enhanced practical instruction and ensured that students are trained using equipment comparable to those found in the hospitality industry.
Industry-Based Learning Through Dual Training.
Recognizing the importance of industry exposure, the department has established strong collaborations with hospitality institutions to facilitate Dual Training programmes.
A notable partnership with Sunstar Hotel, Nokras Hotel, has enabled trainees to gain real workplace experience, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in professional hospitality environments while enhancing their employability.
Research, Innovation and Competitions
The department has embraced research and innovation as an integral part of Competency-Based Education and Training.
Through participation in regional research and innovation competitions, the department won two trophies for outstanding innovative projects, including:
- Red Wine Preparation
- Butter Production
These achievements demonstrate the creativity, innovation, and technical competence of both trainers and trainees while promoting value addition within the food processing sector.
Community Service and Outside Catering.
Beyond classroom training, the department has extended its services to the community through outside catering events. Trainees actively participate in planning, food preparation, event catering, and hospitality services during various functions and ceremonies.
These activities provide invaluable practical exposure while strengthening students’customer service, teamwork, communication, and event management skills.
BUSINESS AND LIBERAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT.
Executive Summary
Since its establishment in 2023, the Department of Business Entrepreneurship and Liberal Studies at Kandara Technical and Vocational College (Kandara T.V.C.) has recorded remarkable growth across academic performance, trainee enrollment, staffing capacity, and program diversity. What began as a modest academic unit with 2 trainees, 1 course, and 2 trainers has rapidly transformed into a major department offering 5 active training pathways to 24 trainees, anchored by 9 qualified academic trainers.
Academic quality has surged, with student pass rates improving from an initial 50% to an impressive 99%. Additionally, the department has produced its first cohort of 6 successful course completers across KNEC Diploma, Certificate, and Level 4 CBET frameworks, while expanding its registered offerings to include professional examinations (C.P.A. and A.T.D.) and key TVET technical programs.
Enrollment Growth and Staffing Capacity
When the department was founded in 2023, it commenced operations with an enrollment of 2 trainees pursuing 1 foundational course, guided by 2 dedicated trainers. Through consistent mobilization, community sensitization, and alignment with TVETA and CDACC quality standards, the department’s intake has expanded substantially.
Currently, the department accommodates 24 active trainees pursuing 5 active courses. To maintain high educational standards and provide tailored mentorship, the academic staff complement has been increased from 2 to 9 trainers, representing a 350% expansion in instructional capacity.
| Metric Parameter | Inception (2023) | Current Status | Growth Growth Rate |
| Trainee Enrollment | 2 Trainees | 24 Trainees | +1,100% (12x Expansion) |
| Active Pursued Courses | 1 Course | 5 Active Courses | +4 Active Pathways |
| Academic Trainer Capacity | 2 Trainers | 9 Trainers | +350% (+7 Trainers) |
Academic Performance Transformation
Academic quality and examination outcomes have witnessed remarkable improvement. At the inception stage in 2023, overall student performance stood at a 50% pass rate. Through rigorous academic administration, competency-based continuous assessment, and close student monitoring, the department currently boasts an outstanding 99% pass rate.
Core Strategies Driving Academic Success:
- Competency-Based Assessment (CBET): Adopting TVET CDACC assessment modules, ensuring trainees acquire actionable practical and technical competencies.
- Expanded Faculty Mentorship: Leveraging the expanded team of 9 trainers to offer focused tutorial sessions and individual remedial guidance.
- Continuous Evaluation & Mock Exams: Implementing internal mid-term testing, practical assignments, and mock KNEC/KASNEB examination drills.
- Practical Industry Skill Training: Integrating real-world case studies, financial accounting exercises, and management problem-solving tasks.
Completion Rate and Pioneer Graduates
Despite its young operational history, the department has successfully guided 6 pioneer trainees to complete their academic programs and earn their respective national certifications.
Distribution of Graduates by Certification Level:
| Qualification Level | Examining Body /
Certification Pathway |
Successful Graduates |
| KNEC Diploma Courses | Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) | 2 Trainees |
| Certificate Course | KNEC / National Qualification
Framework |
1 Trainee |
| Level 4 CBET Courses | TVET CDACC Competency Framework | 3 Trainees |
| Total Pioneer Graduates | Across KNEC and CDACC Frameworks | 6 Trainees |
Course Registration and Academic Portfolio Expansion
In response to market demands and national TVET priorities, the department has registered and introduced 8 new market-relevant programs. These programs cover professional certifications, business management, financial accounting, and social sciences.
Catalog of Registered and Introduced Courses:
| No. | Registered Course / Program Title | Examining Body & Focus Area |
| 1 | Certified Public Accountants (C.P.A.) | KASNEB Professional Board —Accounting & Audit |
| 2 | Accounting Technicians Diploma (A.T.D.) | KASNEB Technical Board
—Applied Financial Management |
| 3 | Business Management | KNEC / CDACC —Business
Operations & Enterprise Leadership |
| 4 | Accountancy | KNEC / CDACC —Financial
Analysis, Bookkeeping & Taxation |
| 5 | Office Administration | KNEC / CDACC —Office
Management & Executive Assistance |
| 6 | Social Work | KNEC / CDACC
—Community Development & Social Welfare |
| 7 | Procurement Management | KNEC / CDACC —Supply
Chain Management & Purchasing |
| 8 | Human Resource Management | KNEC / CDACC —Personnel
Administration & Labor Relations |
Strategic Future Objectives
To sustain momentum and solidify Kandara T.V.C.’s position as a center of excellence in business and liberal studies, the department has outlined the following strategic objectives:
- Student Recruitment Drive: Targeting an enrollment increase to 100+ trainees across regular and evening professional classes (C.P.A. & A.T.D.).
- Industry Partnerships & Internships: Building formal industry networks for attachments and graduate job placements.
- Accounting Software Lab Integration: Equip trainees with hands-on proficiency in accounting packages such as QuickBooks and Sage.
- Continuous Faculty Development: Providing trainers with continuous pedagogical and professional skills upgrades in line with TVET best practices.
ICT DEPARTMENT
The Information Communication Technology (ICT) Department at Kandara Technical and Vocational College has emerged as one of the institution’ leading departments in digital skills development and technological innovation. Through Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), the department has equipped learners with practical ICT skills that prepare them for employment, entrepreneurship, and the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The department continues to play a significant role in supporting the Government’ Digital Superhighway Agenda by providing quality ICT training, community digital literacy programmes, research, and innovation.
Expanding Digital Learning Opportunities
The department has continuously enhanced access to digital education by offering market-driven ICT programmes alongside community-based digital skills training. Through the establishment of the Jitume Digital Hub, trainees and members of the surrounding community have gained access to modern computers, internet connectivity, and digital literacy programmes.
Ajira Digital Program
The department has successfully implemented Ajira Digital Training, equipping young people with online work skills, digital entrepreneurship, freelancing opportunities, and online income-generation techniques. This initiative has empowered trainees to explore employment opportunities beyond traditional workplaces.
Modern ICT Infrastructure
The department has invested in improving ICT infrastructure through:
- Installation of reliable Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Fibre network installation across the institution.
- Modern computer laboratories.
- Enhanced internet access for learning and research.
These improvements have strengthened digital learning, online research, and the integration of technology into teaching and learning.
Research and Innovation
Innovation remains a key pillar of the department’ success. Through participation in research and innovation competitions, the department won two trophies at the national level, demonstrating the creativity and technical competence of both trainers and trainees.
These achievements continue to position the department among the leading centres of innovation within the institution.
Supporting Institutional Digital Transformation- beyond classroom instruction, the ICT Department supports the institution through digital system management, ICT technical support, internet services, and maintenance of computer infrastructure. The department continues to play a central role in advancing digital transformation within the college.
MECHANICAL DEPARTMENT.
The Mechanical Engineering Department has grown into one of the institution’ flagship engineering departments, providing practical technical training that equips learners with industry-ready skills. Through Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), the department continues to produce competent graduates capable of supporting Kenya’ manufacturing, construction, and engineering sectors.
Growth in Student Enrolment
The department has experienced steady growth in student enrolment due to increased demand for practical engineering skills and the quality of training offered by the institution.
Expansion of Training Opportunities
To address industry needs, the department has introduced short courses in welding and fabrication, allowing trainees and community members to acquire employable technical skills within a short period.
Modern Engineering Workshops
The department has significantly improved its practical training environment through the acquisition of modern engineering equipment. Students receive hands-on training using industry-standard machinery and tools in wellequipped workshops, enabling them to develop competencies required in modern engineering industries.
Income Generating Activities
The department has successfully established Income Generating Units (IGUs) through the manufacture of engineering products including:
- Metal furniture for ICT laboratories, Muruka Secondary School.
- Gas piping, sinks, water installation and benches for the Home Science LAB for the Kiranga Primary School* Gas cooking ranges for Kieni TVC
These activities provide learners with practical experience in fabrication, production planning, quality control, costing, and entrepreneurship while generating income for the department.
Research and Innovation
Innovation has become a hallmark of the department. Through participation in research competitions, the department won two trophies at both regional and national levels, showcasing innovative engineering solutions developed by trainers and students.
Strategic Partnerships
The department has strengthened industry and institutional collaborations through partnerships with:
- Githumu High School
- Kiranga Vocational Training Centre
These partnerships have enhanced practical training, knowledge exchange, mentorship, and collaborative learning opportunities.
Producing Industry-Ready Graduates
Graduates from the department continue to secure employment in manufacturing industries, fabrication workshops, construction companies, and engineering firms, while many have successfully established their own welding and fabrication enterprises. A Department Driving Industrial Growth
The Mechanical Engineering Department continues to inspire excellence through practical training, innovation, entrepreneurship, and strategic partnerships.
Today, the department is not only fabricating engineering products—t is building skilled professionals, supporting industrial development, and shaping the future of engineering in Kenya.
ELECTRICAL DEPARTMENT.
The Electrical and Electronics Engineering Department has established itself as a centre of excellence in technical skills development, preparing highly competent electrical technicians and technologists through Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET).
The department combines practical learning, innovation, research, and entrepreneurship to produce graduates capable of meeting the growing demands of Kenya’ electrical and electronics industry.
Modern Workshop Facilities
Significant investments have been made in workshop equipment to strengthen practical learning. Students undertake extensive hands-on training using modern electrical installation tools, testing equipment, and electronics training resources that reflect current industry standards.
Expansion of Short Courses
To promote lifelong learning and skills development, the department has introduced market-responsive short courses including:
- CCTV Installation
- Mobile Phone Repair
These programmes provide learners with practical skills that support self-employment and entrepreneurship.
Research and Innovation
Innovation continues to distinguish the department. Students and trainers have developed outstanding research projects, including:
- Smart Voting System
- Smart Jiko Project
These innovative projects advanced to the National Research and Innovation Competitions, demonstrating the department’ commitment to technological solutions that address real-world challenges.
Institutional Support
The department actively contributes to the maintenance and improvement of the institution’ electrical infrastructure, including electrical installations and ongoing improvements to the school’ public address system, enhancing communication and service delivery within the college.
Producing Competent Electrical Professionals
Graduates leave the department equipped with practical competencies in electrical installation, electronics, maintenance, troubleshooting, renewable energy systems, and emerging technologies, making them highly competitive in both employment and self-employment.