KARATINA UNIVERSITY STRENGTHENS PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH STRATEGIC TRAINING INITIATIVE

Karatina University, in collaboration with the National Productivity and Competitiveness Centre (NPCC), organized a two-day productivity mainstreaming workshop held at the Senate Chambers from 26th to 27th May 2025. The training coincided with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) first surveillance audit. The objective of the workshop was to equip participants with tools, strategies, and practical insights to foster productivity.  In attendance were academic and non-academic heads of departments and sections, as well as the Productivity Mainstreaming Committee and champions comprising the administrative assistants.

Participants keenly following the training sessions.

Speaking during the workshop, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Planning, Finance and Administration  (Prof. Richard Kiai) emphasized the importance of teamwork and clarity of individual roles. He underscored that productivity is essential to the institution’s success and encouraged staff to set measurable targets that align with institutional goals. He further noted that quality management systems are closely linked to productivity outcomes.

The workshop was officially launched by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Linus M. Gitonga. In his opening remarks, the VC reminded participants that it is the small, consistent efforts that drive the university forward, reinforcing the principle that “everybody counts and little things matter.” He encouraged the university community to embrace continuous improvement and to work collectively toward building a university that everyone can be proud of.

The Vice Chancellor officially launching the productivity training workshop

The training was facilitated by Mr. Miano Kariuki, Director of Productivity at the Ministry of Labour, and Engineer Titus Wekesa. They guided participants through productivity assessment exercises, focusing on key indicators used to evaluate Karatina University’s productivity performance: labour efficiency, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Mr. Miano Kariuki speaking on the development of productivity metrics

The two-day workshop covered critical topics aimed at enhancing institutional productivity, including:

• Productivity Management: Best practices and strategic approaches to managing productivity in an academic setting according to the Strategic Plan and objectives.
• Productivity Metrics: Understanding how to measure and analyze productivity accurately. The facilitators offered guidance on creating tailored metrics for different faculties and departments.
• Weighing of Metrics: Techniques for prioritizing and balancing various indicators to optimize performance.

The workshop was highly interactive, engaging participants in group activities and practical exercises. This hands-on approach allowed attendees to apply new knowledge in real-time, enhancing understanding and collaboration.

Mr. Kariuki and Eng. Wekesa provided expert insights throughout the sessions, encouraging active participation and helping the participants develop actionable metrics as per the strategic plan for improving productivity. The practical nature of the training ensured relevance to participants’ daily responsibilities.