In the heart of northern Kenya lies a program that is changing lives and providing hope to those who never thought they had a chance. NRT Trading Ujuzi Manyattani; is a mobile-integrated vocational training program that provides access to learning, adult literacy, and entrepreneurship skills to people from disadvantaged backgrounds and those without formal education.
Partnering with institutions such as Kiirua Technical Training Institute and Laikipia North Technical and Vocational College, Ujuzi Manyattani has been making waves since its inception in 2019.
We spoke with Maina Njane, the Principal of Laikipia North Technical and Vocational College, about the program and its impact on the region.
Mr. Maina is an Electrical Engineer who climbed the ladder to a principal in February 2018, just as the vocational training institution was established. Mr. Maina is a huge advocate of the Ujuzi Manyattani program and has nothing but praise for it. “It’s the best thing that ever happened,” he says with a smile.
“We are very fortunate that we have accepted to be innovative, unique, and daring in this approach and for reaching out to communities we work with in partnership with NRT Trading.”
Maina
The approach NRT Trading takes in this program is what makes it unique. Instead of expecting the learners to come to them, they take the trainers to the learners.
“It brings forth much excitement because we can see the level of impact that Ujuzi has brought to the region. The fact that the trainers can go to the learners means that they are able to provide training to people who may not have had access to it otherwise,”
says Mr. Maina.
As the program evolves, Mr. Maina believes it’s vital to integrate aspects such as Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and other trends within the technical space. He adds that the training can be universally accepted by linking with industries and engaging with national policy bodies like the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) and the Ministry of Education.
Ujuzi Manyattani is more than just a vocational training program; it’s a beacon of hope for those who thought they had none. With its unique approach to training and commitment to the region’s communities, it’s no wonder Mr. Maina believes it’s the best thing that ever happened. The program is changing lives, one learner at a time.