The Meru National Polytechnic

Day Two of the 4th International Research, Science, Innovation Conference & Skills Expo 2026 featured an insightful presentation by our Chief Principal, Dr. Mutembei Kigige, PhD, OGW, on "TVET Financing: Challenges and the Way Forward."

In his presentation, Dr. Kigige highlighted the critical role of sustainable financing in strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a driver of economic growth, innovation and workforce development. Drawing lessons from global best practices, he emphasized the importance of diversified funding models, stronger industry partnerships, institutional innovation, research-driven resource mobilization and work-study opportunities that enhance student success.

He further showcased how The Meru National Polytechnic continues to champion self-reliance through strategic partnerships, income-generating initiatives, applied research and industry collaborations that support quality training and skills development.

As Kenya advances towards a skills-based economy, sustainable investment in TVET remains essential in empowering learners, fostering innovation and preparing graduates for the future of work.

Today, The Meru National Polytechnic is honored to host distinguished academic leaders, government representatives, industry partners, researchers, innovators, educators and learners during the 4th International Research, Science, Innovation Conference & Skills Expo 2026.

Led by our Chief Principal, Dr. Mutembei Kigige, PhD, OGW, we are privileged to welcome Prof. Linus Muthuri Gitonga, Vice Chancellor, Karatina University; Dr. Damaris Ogama a prominent state state counsel at the Office of the Attorney General; and representatives from the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, universities, TVET institutions, secondary schools, industry and other key stakeholders.

The conference continues to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, innovation and skills development in pursuit of sustainable solutions for national transformation.

Together, we are shaping the future through research, innovation and partnership.

DAY TWO IS HERE!
The future belongs to institutions that not only impart knowledge but also create solutions.

As we embark on Day Two of the 4th International Research, Science, Innovation Conference & Skills Expo 2026, The Meru National Polytechnic continues to provide a platform where research meets industry, innovation drives development and ideas inspire transformation.

Today, our Chief Principal, Dr. Mutembei Kigige, PhD, OGW, takes the stage to present on "TVET Financing: Challenges and the Way Forward", a timely discussion on the future of skills development, institutional sustainability and the role of TVET in driving national transformation.

Join us as we explore innovative solutions, share knowledge and shape the future together.

Where every sunrise inspires new ideas, every pathway leads to opportunity, and every day is a chance to learn, innovate and grow. Wishing our students, staff, alumni and partners a productive and successful day ahead.
Can you identify this beautiful spot within The Meru National Polytechnic campus? Tell us the location in the comments!

📢 NOTICE TO ALL TRAINEES
The Meru National Polytechnic wishes to inform all trainees that the Cultural Week activities earlier scheduled for 8th–13th June 2026 have been rescheduled to 15th–20th June 2026. This adjustment provides additional time for participation and preparation across the various cultural categories.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this change may cause and appreciate your understanding, patience, and continued enthusiasm. We encourage all interested trainees to take advantage of the extended application period and be part of a vibrant celebration of talent, creativity, culture, and innovation.

Applications close on Wednesday, 3rd June 2026.

The exhibition arena came alive during the 4th International Research, Science, Innovation Conference & Skills Expo 2026 as the Chief Guest, Amb. Mary Mugwanja, Associate Director – Public Sector & Institutional Banking at Equity Bank, joined The Meru National Polytechnic Chief Principal, Dr. Mutembei Kigige, PhD, OGW, alongside other distinguished guests in touring the innovation exhibition booths.

The tour showcased the remarkable creativity, ingenuity, and technical expertise of students, researchers and innovators, with The Meru National Polytechnic taking centre stage through groundbreaking innovations and practical solutions addressing real-world challenges.

From engineering and technology to agribusiness, sustainability and entrepreneurship, the innovations on display demonstrated the transformative power of TVET in driving innovation, creating opportunities and advancing sustainable development.

At The Meru National Polytechnic, innovation is not just taught, it is created, nurtured and transformed into impact.

‎Day One of the 4th International Research, Science, Innovation Conference & Skills Expo 2026 commenced successfully at The Meru National Polytechnic, bringing together distinguished leaders from academia, industry, government and the financial sector.
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‎Held under the theme "Advancing Sustainable Development in TVET through Science, Technology and Innovation," the three days conference provides a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, research dissemination, innovation showcasing, and strategic collaboration among scholars, innovators, industry partners, policymakers and TVET practitioners.
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‎The conference was officially graced by Amb. Mary Mugwanja, Associate Director, Public Sector and Institutions at Equity Bank Kenya and hosted by the Chief Principal of The Meru National Polytechnic, Dr. Mutembei Kigige, PhD.

Also in attendance were TVET Director Muhammad Hassan; Betty Mugambi, Relationship Manager & Institutional Banking, Cooperative Bank of Kenya; Prof. Kellen Kiambati, PhD, Meru National Polytechnic Governing Council Chairperson Anthony Njagi Getambu, Meru National Polytechnic Governing Council member Jenu John, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Finance and Administration), Karatina University; Prof. Dickson Nkonge, Chairperson, Department of Humanities, Chuka University and Tikva Gichovi, Chief Principal, Tharaka Technical and Vocational College, among other distinguished guests, researchers, innovators, industry partners and institutional leaders.
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‎Through insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, research dissemination and innovation showcases, the conference continues to provide a platform where ideas are transformed into solutions, partnerships are forged, and innovation is harnessed for meaningful impact.
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‎The Meru National Polytechnic remains committed to fostering research excellence, innovation and industry collaboration as key pillars of sustainable development and national progress.
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