ROBOTICS CONTEST 2010
KSH.500,000 FOR EXCELLENCE – ROBOT CONTEST
Ntti won Kshs. 500,000 worth of educational learning systems in the Kenya National Robot competition that took place in Nairobi early this year. The award was given by FESTO Didactic Training Systems, the sponsors of the event. Thirty eight (38) technical training institutions and institutes of science and technology participated in the competition, and NTTI emerged the winner. This was the first time the technical training institutes participated in the robotic contest. The first competition started with polytechnics and universities in the previous year before the technical institutes were brought on board. The robots are designed and developed for specific utilities and service.
SPACE HAMPERS DEVELOPMENT
NTTI has undergone a major transformation from a high school to a technical Institute. Despite the changes and developments in the Institute, infrastructure expansion has been slow. This is attributed to inadequate land; the Institute, situated 3 kilometers from Nairobi City Centre, owns a four – acre piece of land occupied by buildings and a swimming pool – and a separate six – acre plot for playground outside the campus; thus there is hardly any more space for development, yet most of the facilities were designed for a high school. Teachers for the Institute are provided by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). The commission, however, does not provide enough lectures in the Medical Lab and Pharmacy, thus NTTI therefore engages practicing doctors and pharmacist on contracts to teach these specialized areas.
FUTURE OUTLOOK
Jamleck Maina, a Kenyatta University graduate, is determined to lead NTTI in scaling the height to become a leader in the provision of technical skills that are highly competitive in the market. He taught physics and math since his graduation and served in administrative posts in several high schools. “It is a privilege to serve others and God has given us the opportunity to do so”. On responsibilities, his advice was. “We shouldn’t put personal interest first at the expense of our service to the people.” He said.
NTTI is currently offering Certificate and Diploma Courses and “there is a growing demand for the introduction of Higher National Diploma that would lead to future degrees,” the Principal said. The Institute plans to establish a support mechanism for students who drop out due to financial reasons. NTTI aspires for improved student retention and completion rate.
“The secret of success’, Maina said, “Is working in partnership with God in your Administrative tasks. Partner with God. Call upon him for help when things get difficult.
Jamleck Maina believes that a day should start with a prayer.