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The Micro Enterprises Support Programme Trust (MESPT) took a significant step forward in the modernization of Kenya’s agricultural education sector by hosting a crucial ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training) Commercialization and Digitization Validation Workshop on August 28th and 29th, 2024.
The event, held at the Kenya School of TVET, brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to validate and propel the ongoing efforts towards enhancing agricultural education through commercialization and digitization.
The workshop was graced by notable figures including MESPT BOT Vice Chair Madam Irene Gathinji, DANIDA Representative and Board Member Mr. Charles Wasike, Board Member Mr. Thomas Were, CEO Madam Rebecca Amukhoye, County Executive Committee Members, ATVET Centre Principals, ATVET Board of Trustees, and consultants from Egerton University and Kuza Biashara. The event also saw the active participation of staff from the AgriFI Programme, underscoring the broad commitment to advancing agricultural education in Kenya.
For over six years, MESPT, through the AgriFI Food Safety Programme funded by the European Union via DANIDA, has been dedicated to building the capacity of both public and private sectors in agricultural education. The programme has made remarkable strides, including:
- Upgrading ATVET Centres: Modern infrastructure has been installed at various ATVET Centres to create a conducive learning environment that meets international standards.
- Supporting Commercialization: MESPT has been pivotal in helping incubated enterprises transition from learning platforms to fully commercialized entities, ensuring that graduates are equipped with not just knowledge but also entrepreneurial skills.
- Digitizing Curricula: By making learning resources more accessible through digitization, MESPT is addressing the need for a more flexible and modern approach to agricultural education.
In the financial year 2023-2024, MESPT has intensified its focus on sustainability. The organization has provided business advisory services and developed commercialization pathways for 13 ATVET Centres. These efforts ensure that agricultural education in Kenya is not only aligned with current needs but is also adaptable to future challenges.
The ATVET Commercialization and Digitization Validation Workshop served as a reaffirmation of MESPT’s commitment to these goals. The discussions and validations carried out during the workshop are expected to significantly impact the way agricultural education is delivered in Kenya, making it more relevant and impactful for future generations.
This initiative is not only about enhancing the skills of those involved in agriculture but also about empowering them to contribute more effectively to the country’s economy. As MESPT continues to drive these reforms, the future of agricultural education in Kenya looks brighter, more digital, and commercially viable.
