Construction of students’ hostels at Murang’a Technical Training Institute (MTTI) is set to commence following the official handing-over of the project site, marking a major milestone in strengthening technical and vocational training infrastructure in the county
A brainchild of the state department for housing and urban development, the Sh150 million project will see construction of modern students’ villages aimed at improving welfare and security of trainees.
Speaking during the ceremony, Maragua Member of Parliament Mary Wamaua said the project will significantly improve learning conditions as the institute’s over 2,000 students have been forced to seek accommodation outside the institution, exposing them to insecurity and unsuitable living conditions.
“This accommodation plan will greatly improve student welfare, though it will not yet be sufficient for all trainees, but the government remains committed to constructing additional hostels so that all students can eventually be accommodated within the institution,” she said.
Wamaua added that improved infrastructure will enable the institution to admit more students and expand skills training opportunities for young people.
County Director of TVETs, Charles Nyota, said modern facilities will strengthen technical training as the country rolls out modularized curricula in training institutions.
“The government is committed to uplifting our TVET institutions. With improved accommodation, we can increase training capacity, and there are also plans to recruit more trainers to match the growing enrolment,” Nyota said.
Area Deputy County Commissioner, Bernard Odimo, assured students and residents that security agencies will continue patrolling the areas to ensure students safety in the area is guaranteed.
“To ensure learners enjoy a conducive learning environment, security teams will continue strengthening safety measures around the institution,” he said.
He further urged the contractor to prioritize local labour in consultation with National Government Administration Officers (NGAO).
“This will ensure the economic benefits of the project are first felt by residents of this area,” he added.
Muranga Deputy Governor, Stephen Munania, said technical skills development remains important ingredients of economic growth.
“Impactful knowledge gained in our TVET institutions is the real wealth of a nation and the government will continue prioritizing education.
The DG urged Trainees to take advantage of the County Aggregation and Industrial Park and the Special Economic Zone being developed in Murang’a as they are meant to create employment opportunities
County Director for Housing, Laureen Wasungu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving student accommodation infrastructure across learning institutions.
The planned facility will house 340 students and include staff quarters, recreational amenities such as a tennis court, waste management facilities and a power house.
Residents around the institute welcomed the project, saying it would stimulate local economic growth.
“Having students within the institution will boost local businesses. They will buy food from our farms and goods from our shops. The construction itself will also create employment opportunities for local residents,” said Stephen Mburu, a resident of Nyakagumo.
The construction is expected to take 12 months to completion.
By Florence Kinyua
