From early 1990s the Government started encouraging promotion of local technical schools to Universities in order absolve a lot students from 8-4-4 qualified for University but could not access due to limited slots in the two Universities available then, Nairobi and Kenyatta Universities. Unfortunately these were not replaced immediately with enough middle technical colleges to offer skilled training in areas like Masonry, plumbing, electrical wiring , carpentry among others. The result has been acute shortage of these very essential skills. Uwezo College identified that gap and is now training many young in these fields. By offering these courses Uwezo College expects to achieve the following objectives;
• To offer top notch skills training that enable students to pass National examinations set by KNEC or NITA
• To inculcate a culture of professionalism that will gain the trainees respect to be called Technicians and not just ‘jua kali artsan’
• To offer training in Technicalfields that are consistent with the needs of industry as well as in keeping with national goals (Agenda 4 - affordable housing).
• To provide opportunities and experiences that promote the development of self as well as that of the nation. It is expected that once the students complete our training programs will be able to;
• Employ tools and materials appropriate to their purpose and function and in keeping with safe work practices within the construction industry.
• Relate ethical work practices to self as a tradesperson in the construction industry.
• Solve construction industry problems by assessing the situation and applying problem solving tools and processes.
• Communicate effectively with a variety of customers, clients and co-workers with the context of the particular trades sector.
• Interpret relevant codes, specifications plans and construction processes.
• Work in compliance with the theory and the accepted principles and practices of the construction industry trades.
• Explain the interrelationships between construction projects and other disciplines including architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.
• Apply typical computer knowledge and skills required by business, including word-processing, electronic mail, spreadsheets and presentation applications.