OUK-RVTTI ALLIANCE TO BOOST PRACTICAL SKILLS AND DIGITAL LEARNING ACCESS
Eldoret, – A Strategic Partnership for Expanded Learning Opportunities
The Open University of Kenya (OUK) and Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI) have entered into a significant partnership aimed at expanding access to higher education, enhancing practical training, and strengthening content quality through curriculum co-creation. This landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will allow RVTTI students to seamlessly transition to OUK and benefit from the wide range of academic programmes, especially in agriculture, business and other technical related areas.
The agreement was signed during RVTTI’s 13th International Conference held in Eldoret, which attracted over 100 presenters and numerous participants from Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Nigeria, and Iran. Themed “Shaping a Sustainable Future for Employability,” the event showcased innovations and research geared towards improving vocational education and training.
Strengthening Agricultural and Veterinary Training
Speaking on behalf of OUK Vice Chancellor Prof. Elijah Omwenga, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Prof. Carolyne Omulando explained the impact of the MoU on agriculture-based education in the region.
“We have signed an MoU with RVTTI to enable the University reach as many young Kenyans who wish further their studies by accessing learning through the OUK advanced online learning systems and diverse market driven programmes. On the other hand, the OUK students enrolled on practical oriented programmes will also have opportunities to experience hands-on skills and learning by using the institute's state of the art laboratories and equipment,” said Prof. Omulando.
“These competencies will ensure our graduates are workplace-ready.”
“The Open University offers an expansive online environment. This collaboration allows RVTTI students who require hands-on experience to access practical training while benefiting from our online courses,”
In particular, she noted that “The partnership caters to both young learners and working adults who are pursuing continuous professional development.”
Prof. Omulando also highlighted the Open University’s capacity to accommodate large numbers of students was enabled through its versatile online learning model that allows flexibility through self-paced learning.
RVTTI Commits to Collaborative Growth
RVTTI Chief Principal Ms. Loice Kuto welcomed the partnership, noting that the institutions will jointly develop and implement programmes aligned with industry needs.
“This MoU allows both institutions to work closely in curriculum development and implementation to reach more learners with industry-relevant programmes,” said Ms. Kuto.
“It is a great opportunity to empower learners with skills that meet emerging market demands.”
Global Perspective on Open Education
Chair of RVTTI’s Board of Governors, Prof. David Some, emphasized the global importance of open universities in democratizing education.
“Open universities are some of the largest in the world due to their virtual delivery model. We are proud to serve as a focal point for the Open University of Kenya here in Eldoret,” he stated.
Aligning with Government’s Employability Vision
Director of the CBET (Competency-Based Education and Training) Delivery Unit from the State Department, Mr. Bernard Isalambo, lauded the conference and MoU as key steps in implementing the government’s skills agenda.
“This 13th International Conference is timely. Through modularized curricula, youth will gain certifications every three months, allowing them to either join the workforce or continue learning,” he said.
“Our focus is to ensure youth are skilled, employable, and prepared for a competitive future.”
Implementation to Begin Next Financial Year
The MoU will be operationalized starting in the next financial year. Both institutions have agreed to form a joint implementation committee to ensure that all activities outlined in the agreement are executed effectively and progressively.
“We only have a few weeks to the next financial year, but because preliminary discussions have taken place, we are confident in the ability of the two forward looking institutions to roll out this partnership smoothly,” Prof. Omulando concluded.