Thirty-one graduates from Kiambu National Polytechnic are set to begin vocational training and employment opportunities in Bavaria, Germany, after successfully completing the inaugural Talent Gateway Programme, a labour mobility initiative funded by the German government.
The graduates, comprising 20 hospitality trainees under the DEHOGA programme and 11 landscaping trainees, underwent intensive training in technical skills, the German language, intercultural communication, and workplace readiness to prepare them for life and work in Germany.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Principal Secretary (PS) for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu congratulated the graduates and urged them to serve as good ambassadors for Kenya.
“As you leave for Germany, remember that you are carrying the Kenyan flag with you. Uphold integrity, professionalism, and hard work because you will represent not only yourselves but also your families and your country,” she said.
Principal Secretary (PS) for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Dr. Esther Muoria, said the programme demonstrates the government’s commitment to equipping young Kenyans with globally competitive skills and creating opportunities through international partnerships.
She noted that the Talent Gateway Programme is a model that will be expanded to other TVET institutions to enable more graduates to access structured labour mobility opportunities abroad.
Chief Principal of Kiambu National Polytechnic, Sammy Waititu, described the graduation as a historic achievement for the institution, saying the first cohort had set a strong foundation for future participants.
“This programme has equipped our graduates with technical knowledge, language skills, and the confidence to thrive in an international working environment. We are proud of what they have achieved and wish them success in Germany,” he said.
Catherine Karanja, who is in charge of the hotels and restaurants program, said the hospitality trainees had undergone rigorous practical training to meet the standards expected by employers in Bavaria.
“Our graduates are leaving with the right technical skills, discipline, and customer service experience needed to succeed in Germany’s hospitality industry. They are ready to compete at the highest level.” She said,
The Talent Gateway Programme equips Kenyan TVET graduates with technical, language, cultural, and workplace skills required to access safe, fair, and structured vocational training opportunities in Germany.
The government officials said the initiative marks a major step in strengthening Kenya-Germany cooperation while opening new career pathways for skilled young people through safe and regulated labour mobility programmes.
By Polyne Wakiyu and Grace Naishoo
