National Assembly Committee on Education inspects Baringo National Polytechnic, commends progress and hears challenges

National Assembly Committee on Education inspects Baringo National Polytechnic, commends progress and hears challenges 

𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 
𝐖e𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Members of the National Assembly Committee on Education have raised concerns over challenges facing technical institutions during an oversight visit to Baringo National Polytechnic, as part of a nationwide inspection of projects implemented under the 2023/2024 financial year.

Led by Committee Chairperson, Tinderet MP Hon. Julius Melly, the lawmakers in two sub-commitees are inspecting National Polytechnics to assess budget implementation, provide feedback, and recommend policy interventions.

Speaking during the inspection, Hon. Melly lauded the institution's strides in implementing Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) programs. "We are encouraged to see that institutions like Baringo National Polytechnic are aligning their strategic goals with national development priorities. Our visit is not just about oversight—it's about shaping future budget decisions and policy direction," he said.

The Committee noted that the institution has no stalled projects or pending bills. Among ongoing infrastructure projects are the proposed erection of a main entrance, roofing of the BCE workshop, a kitchen renovation, and the installation of a 165kVA emergency generator.

The Baringo National Polytechnic Principal, Mr. Isaac Bwabok, acknowledged government support but appealed for more investment in infrastructure and equipment. "While we’ve made significant progress, we still face challenges, especially with accreditation delays and a shortage of modern training equipment. CBET demands more training rooms, yet we lack sufficient tuition space," he stated.

Members raised concerns over the lack of title deeds for the land. Hon. Julius Taitumu asked, 'The entire land is supposed to be 17.44 hecaters you only have titles for 7.2 Hectares, what measures have you taken to secure title deeds. What are you doing on the encroachment? 

Mr. Bwabok explained that although the land was acquired during Late President Moi’s regime, the institution still lacks a consolidated title. “The land is an amalgamation of several titles—some we have, others we don’t. A portion has been hived off as a a government conservancy. We have written to the Ministry on the issue,” he added.

The polytechnic has trained over 200 youths in digital and creative economy skills and plans to train an additional 100 youths this month. "We are directly contributing to the employability of our graduates and helping Kenya's transition to a digital economy," said Mr. Bwabok.

Baringo National Polytechnic is also supporting students through international work-study programs, with 12 students currently placed in Britain for agricultural training.

However, MPs expressed concern over challenges including shortage of trainers, delayed capitation, insufficient government internet connectivity, and the high cost of CDACC assessments.

"The Government must support institutions like this with adequate funding, modern equipment, and a streamlined accreditation process. Without these, our dream of a skilled workforce will remain just that—a dream," said Hon. Rebecca Tonkei.

The Committee also noted the low number of classrooms for the 2421 students. "We only have 12 classrooms, we need 70 classrooms and we request the Government through the Committee to allocate us funds," said Principal Bwabok. 

The Sub-Committees will also visit Ollessos National Polytechnic, Kaiboi National Polytechnic in Namfi County, Jeremiah Nyagah National Polytechnic in Embu County and Michuki National Polytechnic in Muranga County.