Machakos Technical Institute for the Blind tops in inclusivity and women in STEM training

The Machakos Technical Institute for the Blind (MTIB) has been recognized among Kenya’s top 14 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions for its outstanding contribution to skills development, innovation, and inclusivity in technical education.

MTIB emerged as the best in the Women in STEM and Inclusivity Award category during the Dual TVET Mid-Term Project Review and Recognition Gala held in Nairobi.

The event celebrated excellence among institutions implementing the Dual Training model, a system that combines classroom instruction with structured industry experience.

Chief Principal Dr. Nduku Mutua lauded the recognition as a reflection of MTIB’s dedication to inclusive and gender-sensitive technical education.

“This recognition is a testament to our commitment to inclusive, practical, and gender-sensitive technical education. Our learners, including women and persons with disabilities, are gaining not just academic knowledge but real skills that prepare them for meaningful employment and entrepreneurship,” she said.

The Dual TVET initiative is part of the Promotion of Youth Employment and Vocational Training Programme, jointly funded by the Governments of Finland and Germany, and implemented through Kenya’s State Department for TVET with support from GIZ.

Principal Secretary for TVET, Dr. Esther Muoria, praised the institutions for bridging the gap between learning and industry.

“Dual TVET is more than a training model — it is a bridge from potential to purpose, from the classroom to the career,” said Dr. Muoria

German Embassy Deputy Head of Development Cooperation, Friederike Hemker, and Finland’s Counsellor for Skills Development, Matts Wuerlander, commended Kenya’s progress in integrating dual training into its education system, noting stronger partnerships and improved youth employability.

MTIB was also recognized by Timely Kenya, an education and research consultancy, as one of the top TVET institutions in special needs and inclusive training following a national survey of over 150 institutions.

MTIB has also introduced adaptive learning tools such as Braille materials, tactile diagrams, and digital screen readers, alongside a Smart Learning Hub equipped with assistive technologies for visually impaired learners.

The institution’s mentorship and STEM programs for women have further broken barriers in male-dominated fields like ICT and engineering.

“Empowering women in STEM is not just about equality; it’s about unlocking untapped potential. Their success stories are changing perceptions about disability and gender in technical education” said Dr. Mutua.