Ms. Peris Adema: Director of the Kenya Industrial Training Institute (KITI), Nakuru.

She holds a Master's degree in Corporate Strategy and Economic Policy. She has a vast experience in technical training and is also an expert consultant in business solutions. While heading KIBT as director, she initiated the establishment of the first regional training units throughout the country and at the same time enhanced the level of engagement with stakeholders in offering business training. She has also worked as a high-level policy adviser in the Office of the Prime Minister.

Kenya Industrial Training Institute (KITI) is the only Government Department under the State of Industry offering training. It was established in 1965 with the support of the Japanese Government. Initially, the institute was located on a 3-acre piece of land in Nakuru’s Industrial Area. However, due to the need for expansion, it was re-located to a 40-acre piece of land along Nakuru – Solai road, 3kms from Nakuru town.

KITI was mandated to give trainees hands-on training in technical skills with a strong component of entrepreneurship skills for self-employment. The objectives are to train artisans, craftsmen, technicians, engineering graduates, engineers, and entrepreneurs to work in the existing industries and for self-employment; train middle-level managers for the industrial sector and carry out research in projects and products that would accelerate rural industrialization.

Over the years, the institute has kept to its mandate of training even though there have been adjustments in the training programs in order to respond to the changing needs of the customers. One such need was driven by the demand for nationally recognized certification for purposes of employment. This led to mounting training programs examined by bodies such as Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) and National Industrial Training Authority(NITA) in addition to giving the desired hands-on training. The training programs vary between three months and three years.

However, the institute also offers shorter courses for specific groups or clients (tailor-made courses to meet clients’ training requirements). The institute has 8 training departments most of which have adequate training space in form of workshops and classrooms.

These departments are:-

• Mechanical Engineering
• Building and Construction
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Leather Technology
• Fashion Design and Clothing Technology
• Foods and Beverage
• Information Communications Technology
• Business Management and Entrepreneurship

Currently, the institute is under the management of The Director with the support of the Deputy Director, Senior Assistant Director, Registrar, Dean of Students, Heads of Departments, and Heads of Sections. It has a Students’ Council vested with the responsibility of overseeing students’ affairs. However, to strengthen governance in preparation for moving to the SAGA status, a Board of Governors has been put in place.

For more information visit http://www.kiti.ac.ke