<p>Kigumo Technical and Vocational College is proud to announce the official launch of the <strong>Jitume Digital Skills Laboratory</strong> — a state‑of‑the‑art ICT facility equipped with 50 high‑performance computers, high‑speed fiber internet connectivity, and modern digital learning tools. The lab was officially opened on May 20, 2026 by the Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT and Digital Economy, in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Konza Technopolis Development Authority.</p>

<h3>What Is the Jitume Lab?</h3>

<p>The Jitume (Swahili for "Apply Yourself") initiative is a national government programme under the <strong>Kenya Digital Economy Acceleration Project</strong> that aims to equip TVET institutions and youth empowerment centers with digital infrastructure. The goal is to enable young Kenyans to access online work opportunities, develop market‑ready digital skills, and earn a livelihood through the gig economy without leaving their local communities.</p>

<p>Kigumo TVC is one of the select TVET institutions across the country chosen to host a Jitume Lab, making it a regional hub for digital skills training in Kirinyaga County and the greater Mt. Kenya region.</p>

<h3>Facilities and Equipment</h3>

<p>The Jitume Lab at Kigumo TVC is fully equipped with:</p>

<ul>
  <li><strong>50 High‑Performance Desktop Computers</strong> — Intel Core i7 (13th Generation) processors, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB NVMe SSD storage, and 24‑inch Full HD LED monitors — capable of running demanding software for programming, graphic design, video editing, and data analysis.</li>
  <li><strong>High‑Speed Fiber Internet</strong> — Dedicated 200 Mbps fiber optic connection through the National Optic Fibre Backbone (NOFBI), ensuring uninterrupted access to global online work platforms, video conferencing, cloud computing services, and large file transfers.</li>
  <li><strong>Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) System</strong> — Industrial‑grade UPS with battery backup providing up to 4 hours of continuous power during outages, plus a standby diesel generator for extended sessions.</li>
  <li><strong>Smart Interactive Display Board</strong> — 86‑inch 4K touch‑screen display for interactive training sessions, virtual workshops, and hybrid learning with remote industry mentors.</li>
  <li><strong>Video Conferencing Suite</strong> — Professional‑grade webcams, noise‑cancelling headsets, and ring‑light setups at every workstation for high‑quality virtual meetings and online job interviews.</li>
  <li><strong>Printing and Scanning Station</strong> — High‑speed network laser printer and document scanner for professional document processing.</li>
  <li><strong>Climate‑Controlled Environment</strong> — Air conditioning system maintaining optimal temperature for equipment performance and user comfort.</li>
  <li><strong>Ergonomic Workstations</strong> — Adjustable chairs, proper lighting, and spacious desk layouts designed for long working hours without fatigue.</li>
  <li><strong>Accessible Design</strong> — Wheelchair‑accessible entrances, wide aisles, and adjustable desk heights to accommodate persons with disabilities.</li>
  <li><strong>Biometric Access Control</strong> — Fingerprint‑based entry system ensuring secure access, attendance tracking, and usage analytics.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Training Programmes Offered</h3>

<p>The Jitume Lab hosts a comprehensive digital skills curriculum designed in partnership with industry leaders and global technology companies. The following training programmes are currently available:</p>

<ol>
  <li><strong>Digital Literacy Fundamentals</strong> (2 Weeks) — Computer basics, internet navigation, email communication, online safety, and productivity tools (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).</li>
  <li><strong>Online Work & Freelancing Skills</strong> (4 Weeks) — Creating profiles on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and PeoplePerHour; bidding strategies; client communication; payment systems (PayPal, Payoneer, M‑Pesa integration); and building a professional portfolio.</li>
  <li><strong>Web Development</strong> (8 Weeks) — HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, React.js, Node.js, database management, and responsive design. Trainees build and deploy real websites by the end of the course.</li>
  <li><strong>Graphic Design & Digital Art</strong> (6 Weeks) — Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Canva, Figma, and CorelDRAW. Covers logo design, branding, social media graphics, and print design.</li>
  <li><strong>Video Editing & Content Creation</strong> (6 Weeks) — Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and CapCut. Includes filming techniques, editing, colour grading, and YouTube content strategy.</li>
  <li><strong>Data Entry & Virtual Assistance</strong> (3 Weeks) — Spreadsheet mastery, CRM tools, calendar management, email handling, and administrative support skills for remote work.</li>
  <li><strong>Digital Marketing</strong> (4 Weeks) — Social media management, search engine optimization (SEO), Google Ads, Meta Ads, email marketing, and content strategy.</li>
  <li><strong>Software Development & Coding</strong> (12 Weeks) — Python, Java, C++, mobile app development (Android/Kotlin), version control (Git/GitHub), and agile methodologies.</li>
  <li><strong>Cybersecurity Awareness</strong> (2 Weeks) — Online threat identification, password management, two‑factor authentication, data protection, and safe browsing practices.</li>
  <li><strong>Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Basics</strong> (8 Weeks) — Introduction to AI concepts, Python for data science, TensorFlow, and building simple predictive models.</li>
</ol>

<h3>Certification and Accreditation</h3>

<p>Upon successful completion of any training programme, participants receive:</p>

<ul>
  <li><strong>Kigumo TVC Certificate of Completion</strong> — Recognized by the college and industry partners.</li>
  <li><strong>Digital Badge</strong> — Blockchain‑verified digital credential shareable on LinkedIn and professional networks.</li>
  <li><strong>Portfolio of Work</strong> — A curated collection of projects completed during training, ready for presentation to potential employers or clients.</li>
  <li><strong>NITA Certificate</strong> (for select programmes) — National Industrial Training Authority certification for government‑recognized qualifications.</li>
  <li><strong>Ajira Digital Certification</strong> — Ministry of ICT certification for online work readiness.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Eligibility and Access</h3>

<p>The Jitume Lab is open to:</p>

<ul>
  <li><strong>Currently enrolled Kigumo TVC students</strong> — Free access as part of your college programme. ICT students have scheduled lab sessions; students from other departments can book slots during open hours.</li>
  <li><strong>Kigumo TVC alumni</strong> — Free access for up to 6 months after graduation to support job search, freelancing, and continued skills development.</li>
  <li><strong>Youth from the surrounding community</strong> (ages 18–35) — Subsidized access through the Jitume programme at a nominal registration fee of Ksh 500 per programme. Fee waivers are available for those registered under the Inua Jamii or other social protection programmes.</li>
  <li><strong>Local small business owners and entrepreneurs</strong> — Special business hours (Saturdays 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM) for digital business services, online market access, and e‑commerce training at Ksh 200 per session.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Operating Hours</h3>

<table style="width:100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 1rem 0;">
  <tr style="background:#1a7a1a; color:#fff;">
    <th style="padding:8px; text-align:left;">Day</th>
    <th style="padding:8px; text-align:left;">Student Sessions</th>
    <th style="padding:8px; text-align:left;">Open Access</th>
  </tr>
  <tr><td style="padding:8px;">Monday – Friday</td><td style="padding:8px;">8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM</td><td style="padding:8px;">5:00 PM – 8:00 PM</td></tr>
  <tr style="background:#f0f7f0;"><td style="padding:8px;">Saturday</td><td style="padding:8px;">8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Special Programmes)</td><td style="padding:8px;">1:00 PM – 4:00 PM</td></tr>
  <tr><td style="padding:8px;">Sunday & Public Holidays</td><td style="padding:8px;" colspan="2">Closed (except for scheduled workshops)</td></tr>
</table>

<h3>Online Work Opportunities</h3>

<p>Through partnerships with <strong>Ajira Digital Programme</strong>, <strong>Kenya ICT Authority</strong>, and <strong>Konza Technopolis</strong>, the Jitume Lab connects trained youth to verified online work platforms. Our dedicated <strong>Online Work Mentors</strong> provide one‑on‑one guidance to help users:</p>

<ul>
  <li>Create and optimize freelancer profiles on Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.</li>
  <li>Identify high‑demand digital skills that match market needs.</li>
  <li>Navigate international payment systems and manage freelance income.</li>
  <li>Build long‑term client relationships and secure repeat business.</li>
  <li>Transition from freelancing to establishing registered digital agencies.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Success Story:</strong> Since the soft launch in March 2026, 15 Kigumo TVC graduates have secured consistent freelance work, collectively earning over <strong>Ksh 450,000 per month</strong> through the Jitume Lab. Our top earner, Ms. Mercy Wangui Mwangi (DICT/2501/1713), now works as a full‑time virtual assistant for three international clients, earning an average of Ksh 85,000 monthly.</p>

<h3>Community Impact</h3>

<p>The Jitume Lab is not just a college facility — it is a <strong>community digital empowerment center</strong>. Since opening, the lab has:</p>

<ul>
  <li>Trained over <strong>200 community youth</strong> in basic digital literacy.</li>
  <li>Helped <strong>45 local small businesses</strong> establish an online presence through Google Business Profiles and social media pages.</li>
  <li>Assisted <strong>30 farmers</strong> from Kigumo Ward in accessing online markets, weather forecasting tools, and agricultural extension services.</li>
  <li>Provided <strong>free internet access</strong> to over 500 community members for government e‑services (e‑Citizen, NSSF, NHIF, HELB applications).</li>
  <li>Hosted <strong>3 digital career fairs</strong> connecting youth to employers in Nairobi, Thika, and Murang'a.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Partnerships and Support</h3>

<p>The Jitume Lab is made possible through collaboration with:</p>

<ul>
  <li><strong>Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy</strong> — Policy support and national coordination.</li>
  <li><strong>Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA)</strong> — Technical design, equipment procurement, and programme framework.</li>
  <li><strong>ICT Authority of Kenya</strong> — Internet connectivity through NOFBI and digital skills curriculum development.</li>
  <li><strong>Ajira Digital Programme</strong> — Online work mentorship, platform partnerships, and certification.</li>
  <li><strong>National Industrial Training Authority (NITA)</strong> — Accreditation of select training programmes.</li>
  <li><strong>Kirinyaga County Government</strong> — Community mobilization, youth registration, and local partnership facilitation.</li>
  <li><strong>Microsoft Kenya</strong> — Software licenses, Azure cloud credits, and technical training resources.</li>
  <li><strong>Google Kenya</strong> — Digital skills training materials, Google Career Certificates scholarships, and Android development kits.</li>
</ul>

<h3>How to Register</h3>

<p>Registration for Jitume Lab programmes is ongoing throughout the year. To enroll:</p>

<ol>
  <li><strong>Visit the ICT Department Office</strong> — Room 12, Ground Floor, Main Administration Block.</li>
  <li><strong>Fill the Registration Form</strong> — Available at the ICT Office or downloadable from the college website (Downloads section).</li>
  <li><strong>Pay the Registration Fee</strong> (if applicable) — Ksh 500 for community youth; free for current students.</li>
  <li><strong>Attend Orientation</strong> — A 2‑hour introductory session held every Monday at 8:00 AM.</li>
  <li><strong>Begin Training</strong> — Join the next available cohort based on your selected programme.</li>
</ol>

<p>For inquiries, contact the <strong>Jitume Lab Coordinator</strong> at <strong>jitume@kigumotvc.ac.ke</strong> or call <strong>+254 700 000 001</strong>.</p>

<p style="text-align:center; font-weight:700; color:#1a7a1a; font-size:1.2rem; margin-top:2rem;">💻 Jitume — Apply Yourself, Earn Digitally, Transform Your Future! 💻</p>