The Department of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering at Kinango Technical and Vocational College is one of the most practically-focused and industry-aligned departments in the Coast Region. Established to meet the growing demand for skilled mechanical and automotive technicians in Kenya's transport, manufacturing and construction sectors, the department offers a full range of competency-based programmes across three qualification levels.
Training is delivered entirely under the national CBET (Competency-Based Education and Training) framework, accredited by CDACC and regulated by TVETA. Our fully-equipped motor vehicle workshop, welding and fabrication yard, diesel engine testing bay and automotive electrical lab ensure that every student graduates with hands-on, employer-ready skills that go beyond the classroom.
Whether you aspire to be a motor vehicle mechanic, an automotive engineer, a welder and fabricator, or to run your own garage or workshop business, the department provides a clear and supported pathway — from the foundational Artisan Certificate all the way up to the Diploma level. HELB-eligible and KUCCPS-approved, our programmes are accessible to students from diverse academic and economic backgrounds across Kwale County and beyond.
| Programme | Level | Duration | Entry Requirement | Funding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma in Mechanical Engineering | Diploma | 2.5 Years | KCSE C- & above | HELB & Govt |
| Diploma in Automotive Engineering | Diploma | 2.5 Years | KCSE C- & above | HELB & Govt |
| Craft Certificate in Motor Vehicle Mechanics | Craft Cert. | 2 Years | KCSE D & above | HELB Eligible |
| Craft Certificate in Welding & Fabrication | Craft Cert. | 2 Years | KCSE D & above | HELB Eligible |
| Artisan Certificate in Motor Vehicle | Artisan | 1 Year | KCPE & above | HELB Eligible |
| Artisan Certificate in Welding | Artisan | 1 Year | KCPE & above | HELB Eligible |
Large practical workshop accommodating multiple vehicles simultaneously. Equipped with engine hoists, transmission jacks, brake testers, tyre changers, wheel balancers and comprehensive hand tool sets for full vehicle servicing and overhaul.
Purpose-built welding bay with MIG, TIG, MMA arc and oxy-acetylene welding stations, metal cutting and grinding equipment, fabrication benches and a full range of personal protective equipment and safety training provisions.
Dedicated testing facility for diesel engine systems including fuel injection pump calibration, injector testing, turbocharger inspection and complete diesel engine strip-down, overhaul and reassembly training.
Equipped with OBD-II diagnostic scanners, oscilloscopes, multimeters, wiring loom trainers, starter motor and alternator test rigs, plus modern ECU and sensor diagnostics training boards for petrol and diesel vehicles.
Training area for generators, pumps, compressors and other industrial plant machinery. Covers preventive maintenance schedules, fault diagnosis, lubrication systems and safe plant operation procedures.
Centrally managed store stocked with professional automotive hand tools, diagnostic equipment, PPE, engine components and consumables — ensuring every practical session is fully resourced and industry-standard.
KTVC's Mechanical and Automotive Engineering programmes are open to students with varying academic backgrounds. All qualifications follow the CBET framework as prescribed by CDACC and TVETA.
- KCSE mean grade C- (Minus) or above
- Credit or pass in Mathematics / Physics
- Craft Certificate holders may also qualify
- KUCCPS govt-sponsored or self-sponsored
- KCSE mean grade D (Plain) or above
- KCSE with relevant subject passes
- Artisan certificate holders may qualify
- Self-sponsored or KUCCPS-placed
- KCPE certificate (any grade)
- Or KCSE with any grade
- Age 16 years and above
- Self-sponsored enrolment
Review the programmes table above and select the qualification level (Diploma, Craft Certificate or Artisan) that best matches your academic background and career ambitions in mechanical or automotive engineering.
Government-sponsored students apply via the KUCCPS Portal. Self-sponsored students apply directly via the KTVC Online Admission Portal.
Download the current fee structure from the Downloads Page. HELB-eligible students should apply for a HELB loan via the HELB Portal.
Pay the required fees via bank or Mpesa paybill. Bring your academic certificates, National ID / Birth Certificate, fee receipt and 2 passport photos to the Registrar's Office, KTVC Samburu Campus.
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 for your programme.