Nakuru: The Rift Valley National Polytechnic (RVNP) will retool 46 driving instructors drawn from various Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) operated by the County Government of Nakuru as part of a broader effort to improve the quality of driving instruction and enhance road safety in the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative, which is supported by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICAN), aims to enhance the competence and ethical conduct of driving instructors. This is expected to produce more skilled and responsible drivers, ultimately reducing accidents and fatalities. County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, ICT, and e-Government, Ms. Zipporah Ngugi, emphasized the significant impact the up-skilling will have in building the capacity of VTC instructors to deliver quality and relevant training.
Ms. Ngugi highlighted the collaborative effort between RVNP, the County Government, and CICAN as a means to ensure that all 11 sub-counties have access to trained instructors. This will increase the availability of driving courses, foster self-reliance, and strengthen vocational education in the VTCs. She spoke at RVNP during discussions with a delegation of the county’s education experts and a team from the National Polytechnic, led by Chief Principal Mr. Sammy Chemoiwa, regarding the rollout of the training program.
Ms. Ngugi noted that skilled and knowledgeable instructors are crucial for providing effective learning experiences, increasing learners’ confidence and competence. Qualified instructors can create customized learning plans based on individual needs, ensuring learners progress at their own pace and are well-prepared for various driving situations. She stressed the necessity for instructors to have an in-depth understanding of road safety, traffic laws, and road conditions.
The CECM emphasized that well-trained instructors can guide learners through the road test process, teach essential driving techniques, and promote safe driving practices, all of which contribute to reduced accident risks and responsible driving. She remarked on the direct impact of driving school training quality on road safety and the importance of competent instructors in shaping driving habits.
The support from Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICAN), an organization representing publicly supported colleges, institutes, and polytechnics in Canada and internationally, is crucial. CICAN champions innovations and development opportunities created by its member institutions and partners worldwide.
Ms. Ngugi stated the initiative aims to ensure driving instructors meet National Transport Safety Authority (NTSA) requirements and adhere to regulations, thus improving driving education safety and quality. She highlighted the necessity for refresher training due to significant changes in highway codes and road infrastructure developments over the years.
The county government collaborates with NTSA to accredit and comprehensively train its VTC driving instructors in defensive driving, traffic rule adherence, hazard recognition, and safety culture. Ms. Ngugi underscored the shared responsibility of road safety and the vital role of driving schools in shaping aspiring drivers’ attitudes and skills.
NTSA’s efforts to address unqualified instructors include stricter licensing requirements and regular driving school inspections. Accreditation ensures adherence to standards and guidelines set by the regulatory authority. RVNP, accredited by NTSA, trains instructors with a revised syllabus. Chief Principal Mr. Chemoiwo mentioned the National Polytechnic offers full-time and part-time courses, including certificate and diploma programs, adhering to NTSA’s approved curriculum.
Mr. Chemoiwo explained that the comprehensive curriculum, covering theory, practical skills, road safety, and traffic regulations, is essential for developing well-rounded drivers. The programs address both theoretical and practical aspects, including the NTSA curriculum, first aid, fire safety, and defensive driving training.