Utangwa Vocational Training Centre
Location: Kikima, off Wote Road, Machakos County
Utangwa Vocational Training Centre was started in 1978 as a village polytechnic. The aim was to offer youth in the area opportunities to learn a vocational skill.
Our collaboration with the Centre began in 2022, when we enrolled our first group of special needs students for training. The Centre provides a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where differently-abled students can learn at a pace that meets their individual needs. During our visits to the Centre, we observed that several facilities required significant improvement. Areas such as the classrooms, building exteriors, footpaths, kitchen, and the girls' dormitory were in need of repair and renovation.
At Amara Charitable Trust, we firmly believe that every child deserves to learn in an environment that fosters confidence, dignity, and personal growth. Our commitment is to help create such a space for these students.
Today, the institution offers it 145 students skill-based training in building and construction, hair dressing and beauty therapy, carpentry and joinery, fashion design and motor vehicle mechanics.
We continue to support the college and have donated tools and equipment to enhance learning in the Garment Making, Hairdressing & Beauty and Carpentry Departments.
"“Vocational education programs have made a real difference in the lives of countless young people nationwide; they build self-confidence and leadership skills by allowing students to utilize their unique gifts and talents.” — Conrad Burns, former U.S. Senator
The building’s exterior has been updated with a new coat of paint, reinforcing our dedication to care of our students
Our generous donors handing over renovated classrooms
Interior of the Kitchen - Before
Kitchen interiors - work in progress
Motor Vehicle Mechanics Classroom - Before
Motor Vehicle Mechanics Classroom - After
Carpentry Classroom - Before
Carpentry Classroom - After
Handover of project documents
The Amara team with the students
Donated sewing machines and tailoring tools, including fabric and threads