In a landmark move to expand access to higher education and boost practical training opportunities in Kenya, the Open University of Kenya and Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI) have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding.
The partnership was officially announced during the 13th International Conference hosted by RVTTI in Eldoret, themed “Shaping a Sustainable Future for Employability.”
The MoU is set to enhance digital learning, curriculum development, and practical skills training — particularly in agriculture and veterinary services key sectors in the Rift Valley region. Over 100 presenters and numerous participants from countries including Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Nigeria, and Iran attended the international event.
Bridging theory and practice
Speaking on behalf of OUK Vice Chancellor Elijah Omwenga, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Caroline Omulando outlined the significant role the partnership will play in transforming vocational and higher education.
“We have signed an MoU with the VET Regional Office to enable us to offer programs related to veterinary services in this agriculture-driven region,” Omulando said.
“The agreement allows our students to access veterinary labs and gain hands-on skills essential for agriculture and related fields. These competencies will ensure our graduates are workplace-ready.”
Omulando also underscored the flexibility and reach of OUK’s virtual learning model, noting how it complements RVTTI’s hands-on training.
“The Open University offers an expansive online environment. This collaboration allows RVTTI students who require practical experience to access lab and field training while benefiting from our online courses,” she added.
“The partnership caters to both young learners and working adults who are pursuing continuous professional development.”
Commitment to industry-relevant learning
RVTTI Principal Loice Kuto welcomed the agreement as a timely and strategic step toward addressing the country’s growing need for industry-aligned skills.
“This MoU allows both institutions to work closely in curriculum development and implementation to reach more learners with industry-relevant programs,”Kuto stated.
“It is a great opportunity to empower learners with skills that meet emerging market demands.”
The institutions plan to collaborate on developing new academic modules that integrate both theoretical and practical components, especially for students in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and technical trades.
Expanding open education
The Chair of RVTTI’s Board of Governors, David Some, praised the agreement as a reflection of global educational trends.
“Open universities are some of the largest in the world due to their virtual delivery model,” Some said. “We are proud to serve as a focal point for the Open University of Kenya here in Eldoret. This partnership brings world-class access to learners in our region.”
Bernard Isalambo, Director of the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) Delivery Unit at the State Department, said the MoU was aligned with the government’s broader goal of equipping youth with practical, employable skills.
“This 13th International Conference is timely,”Isalambo noted.
“Through modularised curricula, youth will gain certifications every three months, allowing them to either join the workforce or continue learning. Our focus is to ensure youth are skilled, employable, and prepared for a competitive future.”
The implementation of the MoU will begin in the upcoming financial year. Both institutions have committed to forming a joint implementation committee to guide execution.
“We only have a few weeks to the next financial year, but because preliminary discussions have taken place, we are confident in our ability to roll out this partnership smoothly,” Omulando said.
Open University of Kenya(OUK).
