In the heart of Ngegu, Kiambu County, Kenya, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Jenga Courses, a skills-based training institution, is transforming the lives of young Kenyans by equipping them with practical, in-demand construction skills. As a subsidiary of Nairobi Handyman Services, a well-established construction company, Jenga Courses is not just a training center—it’s a beacon of hope for a generation seeking to bridge the gap between education and employment. With a mission to empower youth and contribute to Kenya’s Vision 2030, Jenga Courses is redefining technical education in the region, one skilled artisan at a time.
A Vision Rooted in Empowerment
Jenga Courses was born out of a recognition that Kenya’s youth face a critical challenge: unemployment despite educational qualifications. The institution aligns itself with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act of 2013, which aims to increase enrollment in technical training by 20% by 2030 to support Kenya’s ambition of becoming a newly industrialized nation. Jenga’s vision is clear: to create a workforce of skilled handymen and women who can thrive in the construction industry and beyond, fostering self-reliance and economic growth. The institution’s philosophy challenges the outdated notion that technical skills are becoming obsolete in the face of technological advancements. Instead, Jenga Courses asserts that these skills form the foundation of modern industries. By offering hands-on training in construction-related disciplines, the institution is preparing students to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market while contributing to Kenya’s infrastructural development.
A Comprehensive Curriculum for Real-World Impact
Jenga Courses offers a robust curriculum centered on seven core construction-related programs, designed to provide practical, marketable skills. These courses include:
- Tiling: Training in precision tile installation for residential and commercial spaces.
- Plumbing: Comprehensive instruction in water supply, drainage, and pipe fitting.
- Woodwork: Skills in carpentry, joinery, and furniture crafting.
- Masonry: Techniques in bricklaying, stonework, and structural construction.
- Gypsum Installation: Expertise in installing drywall and ceiling systems.
- Painting and Decoration: Mastery of surface preparation, color application, and decorative finishes.
- Electrical Installation: Fundamentals of wiring, circuit installation, and electrical safety.
Beyond these core offerings, Jenga Courses supplements its programs with essential skills to ensure graduates are well-rounded professionals. Students receive training in work health and safety, tool maintenance, site inspection, quote preparation, basic entrepreneurial skills, and bookkeeping. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only technically proficient but also equipped to navigate the business side of the construction industry, whether as employees or entrepreneurs.
A Commitment to Accessibility and Community Impact
One of Jenga Courses’ standout initiatives is its full sponsorship program for young people in Kiambu Constituency, funded by the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NGCDF). This program removes financial barriers, enabling disadvantaged youth to access high-quality training and build sustainable careers. The institution’s location in Ngegu, a vibrant community in Kiambu County, makes it accessible to local youth, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in their training journey.
The impact of Jenga Courses extends beyond individual learners. By aligning with national goals, such as those outlined in Vision 2030, the institution is contributing to the broader economic development of Kenya. The construction industry is a cornerstone of the country’s growth, and Jenga’s graduates are poised to play a pivotal role in building the infrastructure that will drive Kenya toward industrialization.
A Broader Context: Kiambu’s Push for Skills Development
Jenga Courses is part of a larger ecosystem of skills development in Kiambu County. For instance, a recent initiative saw 1,200 youth in the county complete short courses through a collaboration between the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) – Kiambu Chapter and the Kiambu County Government’s Department of Youth Affairs. The graduation ceremony, held at Ndumberi Stadium in June 2025, highlighted the county’s commitment to reducing youth unemployment through practical training programs. Chief Officer Godfrey Masolo praised such initiatives for equipping youth with marketable skills, aligning with the county’s slogan, “Making Kiambu Great Again.” While this program was not directly tied to Jenga Courses, it underscores the region’s focus on technical education, of which Jenga is a key player.
Additionally, institutions like the Kiambu National Polytechnic (KINAP), established in 1973, complement Jenga’s efforts by offering diploma, craft, and artisan-level courses in fields such as building technology, civil engineering, and architecture. Together, these institutions are creating a robust pipeline of skilled professionals in Kiambu, ensuring that the county remains a hub for technical excellence.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Jenga Courses is making significant strides, it operates in a landscape with its share of challenges. The stigma surrounding technical and vocational training persists in some quarters, with many young people still favoring white-collar jobs over hands-on careers. Jenga Courses counters this by emphasizing the dignity and economic potential of technical skills, positioning its graduates as essential contributors to Kenya’s growth.
The institution also faces the challenge of scaling its impact to meet the growing demand for skilled labor. With Kenya’s construction industry booming—driven by urbanization and infrastructure projects—Jenga Courses has an opportunity to expand its offerings and reach more learners. Partnerships with organizations like the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) and TVET centers could further enhance its ability to deliver high-quality training.
A Call to Action
For those interested in joining Jenga Courses, the path is straightforward. The institution welcomes inquiries through its parent company, Nairobi Handyman Services, via their website (nhs.co.ke). Whether you’re a young person seeking to kickstart a career in construction or a community stakeholder looking to support skills development, Jenga Courses offers a gateway to opportunity.
Building a Brighter FutureJenga Courses is more than a training institution; it’s a catalyst for change in Ngegu and beyond. By empowering youth with practical skills, fostering entrepreneurship, and aligning with national development goals, Jenga is laying the foundation for a skilled, self-reliant workforce. As Kenya marches toward its Vision 2030 aspirations, institutions like Jenga Courses are proving that the future is built not just with bricks and mortar, but with the dreams and determination of its youth.
