About the Department
The Department of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering at Kinango Technical and Vocational College (KTVC) is one of the most practically-focused and industry-aligned departments in the Coast Region. It produces highly skilled technicians and engineers for Kenya's transport, manufacturing and industrial sectors through intensive hands-on training in fully-equipped workshops.
All programmes are delivered under the national Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework, accredited by the Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council (CDACC) and regulated by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA). Diploma-level programmes are examined by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC).
The department offers 7 CBET programmes across two pathways — Automotive Engineering/Technology and Welding & Fabrication — spanning Level 3 (Artisan) through to Level 6 (Diploma). Students track their academic progress through the Intellimis Academic Portal.
7
CBET Programmes
4
CBET Levels (3–6)
CBET
Framework
3
Intakes / Year
1–2.5
Years Duration
HELB
Loans Available
Head of Department — Mechanical & Automotive Engineering
Kinango Technical and Vocational College, Samburu, Kwale County
kinangotvc@gmail.com | +254 746 632 243 CBET Programmes at a Glance
| # | Programme Name | CBET Level | Qualification | Duration | Min. Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Automotive Engineering Technology | Level 6 | Diploma (KNEC) | 2.5 Years | KCSE C− |
| 2 | Automotive Technology | Level 5 | Higher Craft Cert. | 2 Years | KCSE D+ |
| 3 | Automotive Technology | Level 4 | Craft Certificate | 1.5 Years | KCSE D (Plain) |
| 4 | Motor Vehicle Technology | Level 3 | Artisan Certificate | 1 Year | KCPE |
| 5 | Welding & Fabrication | Level 5 | Higher Craft Cert. | 2 Years | KCSE D+ |
| 6 | Welding & Fabrication | Level 4 | Craft Certificate | 1.5 Years | KCSE D (Plain) |
| 7 | Welding & Fabrication | Level 3 | Artisan Certificate | 1 Year | KCPE |
All 7 programmes are CDACC-accredited under the CBET framework. Government-sponsored students apply via KUCCPS. Self-sponsored students apply via the KTVC Admission Portal. Intakes: January · May · September. Track academic records on Intellimis.
CBET Programmes — Full Details
CBET Level 6
CBET-L6-AET
Automotive Engineering Technology — Level 6
Diploma Programme · KNEC Examined · CDACC Accredited
2.5 Years (5 Semesters)
KCSE C− and above
KUCCPS Approved
HELB Eligible
KNEC Certificate on Completion
The Automotive Engineering Technology Level 6 is the highest CBET level in the Automotive pathway and leads to the award of a Diploma in Automotive Engineering Technology, examined by KNEC. This comprehensive programme develops fully competent automotive engineers and senior technicians with deep expertise in engine overhaul, transmission and drivetrain systems, automotive electrical and electronic systems, diesel and petrol fuel systems, brake and suspension systems, OBD-II diagnostics, fleet management and automotive workshop administration. Graduates are ready for senior technical and supervisory roles across Kenya's transport, manufacturing and fleet management sectors.
Apply for Automotive Engineering Technology Level 6
Pathway:
Level 3
→
Level 4
→
Level 5
→
Level 6 (Diploma)
CBET Level 5
CBET-L5-AUTO
Automotive Technology — Level 5
Higher Craft Certificate · CDACC Accredited
2 Years (4 Semesters)
KCSE D+ and above
Can Upgrade to Level 6
HELB Eligible
The Automotive Technology Level 5 leads to the award of a Higher Craft Certificate in Automotive Technology. This intermediate programme builds strong practical skills in engine servicing and repair, gearbox and clutch systems, steering and suspension, vehicle braking systems, automotive electrical systems and basic engine diagnostics. Graduates are ready for skilled employment in garages, workshops and fleet maintenance departments, or can progress to Level 6 through credit transfer.
Apply for Automotive Technology Level 5
Pathway:
Level 4
→
Level 5 (This Programme)
→
Level 6 (Diploma)
CBET Level 4
CBET-L4-AUTO
Automotive Technology — Level 4
Craft Certificate · CDACC Accredited
1.5 Years (3 Semesters)
KCSE D (Plain) and above
Can Upgrade to Level 5 or 6
HELB Eligible
The Automotive Technology Level 4 leads to the award of a Craft Certificate in Automotive Technology. This programme equips students with practical, employment-ready skills in motor vehicle servicing, engine tune-up, brake adjustment, tyre changing, battery testing, basic engine repairs and routine vehicle maintenance. Graduates can enter the workforce immediately or progress through the CBET levels using credit accumulation and transfer.
Apply for Automotive Technology Level 4
Pathway:
Level 3
→
Level 4 (This Programme)
→
Level 5
→
Level 6
CBET Level 3
CBET-L3-MVT
Motor Vehicle Technology — Level 3
Artisan Certificate · CDACC Accredited · Entry-Level
1 Year (2 Semesters)
KCPE and above
Can Upgrade to Level 4, 5 or 6
HELB Eligible
The Motor Vehicle Technology Level 3 leads to the award of an Artisan Certificate in Motor Vehicle Technology. This is the entry-level programme for KCPE holders, providing essential practical automotive skills including basic vehicle servicing, tyre removal and fitting, battery checks, oil changes, brake pad inspection and basic fault identification. Graduates can enter the workforce as mechanics' helpers or workshop assistants and progress upward through all CBET levels using the credit accumulation and transfer system.
Apply for Motor Vehicle Technology Level 3
Pathway:
Level 3 (This Programme)
→
Level 4
→
Level 5
→
Level 6
CBET Level 5
CBET-L5-WF
Welding & Fabrication — Level 5
Higher Craft Certificate · CDACC Accredited
2 Years (4 Semesters)
KCSE D+ and above
Highest Welding Level Offered
HELB Eligible
The Welding & Fabrication Level 5 leads to the award of a Higher Craft Certificate in Welding & Fabrication. This advanced programme builds deep expertise in MIG, TIG, MMA arc welding, oxy-acetylene processes, structural steel fabrication, metal forming and bending, welding inspection and quality control, blueprint reading, and safe welding practice. Graduates command strong demand in construction, manufacturing, fabrication workshops and the growing steel structures industry across Kenya.
Apply for Welding & Fabrication Level 5
Pathway:
Level 3
→
Level 4
→
Level 5 (Top Level)
CBET Level 4
CBET-L4-WF
Welding & Fabrication — Level 4
Craft Certificate · CDACC Accredited
1.5 Years (3 Semesters)
KCSE D (Plain) and above
Can Upgrade to Level 5
HELB Eligible
The Welding & Fabrication Level 4 leads to the award of a Craft Certificate in Welding & Fabrication. This programme provides solid practical welding skills covering MMA arc welding, oxy-acetylene cutting and welding, basic MIG welding, metal cutting, grinding, simple fabrication tasks and welding safety. Graduates are work-ready in a range of construction and manufacturing roles and can progress to Level 5 through the CBET credit system.
Apply for Welding & Fabrication Level 4
Pathway:
Level 3
→
Level 4 (This Programme)
→
Level 5
CBET Level 3
CBET-L3-WF
Welding & Fabrication — Level 3
Artisan Certificate · CDACC Accredited · Entry-Level
1 Year (2 Semesters)
KCPE and above
Can Upgrade to Level 4 or 5
HELB Eligible
The Welding & Fabrication Level 3 leads to the award of an Artisan Certificate in Welding & Fabrication. This is the entry-level programme for KCPE holders seeking quick entry into the welding trade, covering basic MMA arc welding, oxy-acetylene cutting, metal identification, use of hand tools, personal protective equipment and fundamental welding safety. Graduates enter the workforce as welding helpers or junior welders and can progress through the CBET levels using the credit accumulation and transfer system.
Apply for Welding & Fabrication Level 3
Pathway:
Level 3 (This Programme)
→
Level 4
→
Level 5
Programme details are subject to TVETA and CDACC guidelines. For the latest fee structure and programme specifications, download the current prospectus or contact the Registrar: +254 746 632 243. Track records at www.intellimis.com/login.
Department Facilities & Workshops
Motor Vehicle Workshop
Spacious workshop with engine hoists, transmission jacks, brake testers, tyre changers, wheel balancers and comprehensive hand tool sets for full vehicle servicing and overhaul.
Welding & Fabrication Yard
Purpose-built welding bay with MIG, TIG, MMA arc and oxy-acetylene stations, metal cutting and grinding equipment, fabrication benches and full PPE provisions.
Diesel Engine Testing Bay
Diesel engine test stands for fuel injection pump calibration, injector testing, turbocharger inspection and complete diesel engine overhaul training.
Automotive Electrical Lab
OBD-II diagnostic scanners, oscilloscopes, wiring loom trainers, starter motor and alternator test rigs, and ECU & sensor diagnostics training boards.
Plant Machinery Section
Training on generators, pumps, compressors and other industrial plant machinery including preventive maintenance and fault diagnosis procedures.
Library & e-Resources
Automotive and mechanical textbooks, CDACC curriculum materials, KNEC past papers and access to the Intellimis academic portal.
Entry Requirements & Eligibility
Level 6 — Diploma
- KCSE Mean Grade C− (Minus) and above
- Pass in Mathematics or Physics preferred
- Valid National Identity Card (18 years+)
- Certified copies of academic certificates
- 2 recent passport-size photographs
- KUCCPS letter (government-sponsored)
Level 5 — Higher Craft
- KCSE Mean Grade D+ and above
- Pass in Mathematics or Science advantageous
- Valid National ID or Birth Certificate
- Certified copies of KCSE result slip
- 2 recent passport-size photographs
- Completed KTVC application form
Level 4 — Craft Certificate
- KCSE Mean Grade D (Plain) and above
- All D holders eligible — no subject restriction
- Valid National ID or Birth Certificate
- Certified copies of KCSE result slip
- 2 recent passport-size photographs
- Completed KTVC application form
Level 3 — Artisan Certificate
- KCPE Certificate (any grade)
- Or KCSE with any grade
- Age 16 years and above
- Valid National ID or Birth Certificate
- 2 recent passport-size photographs
- Self-sponsored enrolment only
Requirements may vary per intake. Contact the Registrar's Office: +254 746 632 243 | kinangotvc@gmail.com. Academic records via Intellimis Portal.
Career Prospects — What You Can Become
Mechanical & Automotive Engineering graduates are in high demand across Kenya's transport, construction, manufacturing and industrial maintenance sectors. Many graduates establish successful garages, fabrication workshops and automotive service businesses across Kwale County and the Coast region.
Motor Vehicle Mechanic
Service and repair vehicles in garages, dealerships and fleet workshops
Welder & Fabricator
Weld and fabricate metal structures for construction, manufacturing and industry
Garage / Workshop Owner
Open your own garage, vehicle repair or metal fabrication business
Diesel Engine Technician
Service and overhaul diesel engines for trucks, buses and heavy machinery
Fleet Maintenance Manager
Manage vehicle maintenance programs for transport companies and government fleets
Plant Technician
Operate and maintain construction plant, generators and industrial equipment
Auto Electrician
Diagnose and repair vehicle electrical and electronic systems
Site Mechanical Supervisor
Supervise mechanical and automotive work on large construction and infrastructure projects
Key employers: Kenya Power, Kenya Pipeline, National Construction Authority, County Governments, Transport Companies, Manufacturing Plants, Construction Firms, Kenya Railways, Coastal Hotels, NGOs, Agricultural Machinery Dealers.
How to Apply
1
Choose Your Programme & Level
Review the 7 CBET programmes above — Automotive or Welding & Fabrication — and select the level (3, 4, 5 or 6) that matches your academic background and career goals. You can always upgrade through credit transfer.
2
Select Your Admission Route
Government-sponsored students apply via the KUCCPS Portal. Self-sponsored students apply directly via the KTVC Online Admission Portal.
3
Download the Fee Structure
Visit the Downloads Page to get the current fee structure. HELB-eligible students should apply via the HELB Portal.
4
Pay Fees & Submit Documents
Pay via bank or Mpesa paybill. Bring your academic certificates, National ID or Birth Certificate, fee receipt and 2 passport photos to the Registrar's Office, KTVC Samburu Campus.
5
Report on Intake Date
Intakes are held in January, May and September each year. Call +254 746 632 243 or email kinangotvc@gmail.com to confirm the exact reporting date. Track records via Intellimis.
Accreditation:
CDACC Accredited
TVETA Licensed
CBET Framework
KNEC Registered
KUCCPS Approved
HELB Eligible
NTSA Aligned
NITA Recognized
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