Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation NITA
Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation (NITA): 2024 Complete Guide to Colleges, Fees & Careers in Kenya
Kenya's energy and construction sectors are undergoing massive expansion, with the government's Last Mile Connectivity Project aiming to achieve 100% electricity access by 2025. This rapid growth has created an urgent demand for skilled electrical installers, making the Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation (NITA) one of the most sought-after vocational programs in Kenya today.
This comprehensive 2000-word guide provides everything you need to know about this career-transforming qualification:
Detailed program structure (modules, duration, and certification)
2024 fee breakdown for both public and private institutions
Top-rated colleges with proven job placement records
Lucrative career paths (local and international opportunities)
Financial aid options (HELB, bursaries, and payment plans)
Success stories from graduates earning up to KSh 120,000/month
Whether you're a KCSE graduate looking for immediate employment or a career changer seeking stable income, this NITA-certified program offers the fastest route into Kenya's KSh 500 billion energy sector. Enroll today to secure your future in this high-growth industry!
What Is the Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation?
Definition and Scope
The Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation is a 12-month technical program accredited by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA). It provides hands-on training in:
Domestic and industrial wiring
Circuit installation and troubleshooting
Electrical safety (OSHA & EPRA standards)
Solar PV system installation (renewable energy focus)
Unlike theoretical engineering degrees, this course emphasizes practical skills needed for immediate employment.
Career Roles for Graduates
| Job Title | Key Responsibilities | Industries |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | Wiring, repairs, maintenance | Construction, Real Estate |
| Solar Technician | Installing solar panels & inverters | Renewable Energy Firms (M-KOPA, d.light) |
| Maintenance Technician | Industrial electrical systems maintenance | Factories, Manufacturing Plants |
| Electrical Contractor | Running private wiring businesses | Self-Employment |
How It Compares to Related Programs
| Program | Duration | Focus | Entry Requirement | Career Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Artisan Electrical Installation (NITA) | 1 year | Hands-on wiring & repairs | KCSE D | Electrician (KSh 30K–120K) |
| Diploma in Electrical Engineering | 3 years | Advanced electrical theory | KCSE C- | Electrical Engineer (KSh 50K–200K) |
| Certificate in Solar Installation | 6 months | Solar-specific skills | KCSE D | Solar Technician (KSh 35K–100K) |
Why choose this program?
Faster employment (90% job placement within 6 months)
Lower cost than diploma programs
Entrepreneurial opportunities (start your own business)
Detailed Program Overview
Duration & Study Modes
Full-time: 12 months (including 3-month paid attachment)
Part-time: 18 months (evening & weekend classes)
Blended learning: Online theory + in-person practicals
Curriculum Breakdown (Key Modules)
Electrical Wiring & Installation
Single-phase and three-phase systems
DB board installation
Earthing and bonding techniques
Circuit Testing & Troubleshooting
Using multimeters and clamp meters
Identifying short circuits and faults
Safety Regulations (OSHA & EPRA)
Workplace electrical safety
Kenya Power compliance standards
Solar PV Systems Installation
Panel mounting and inverter setup
Battery storage solutions
Industrial Electrical Maintenance
Motor control systems
PLC basics for automation
Entry Requirements
Academic: KCSE D (plain) or equivalent
Subjects: Basic Math & Physics knowledge (advantageous but not mandatory)
Age: Minimum 17 years (no upper limit)
Physical Fitness: Ability to handle wiring and climb ladders
Accreditation & Regulation
NITA Certified (National Industrial Training Authority)
TVETA Accredited (Technical and Vocational Education Authority)
EPRA Recognized (Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority)
2024 Fee Structure (Updated)
| Institution Type | Tuition Fees | Exam Fees | Toolkit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public TVETs | KSh 24,000 | KSh 3,500 | KSh 5,000 | KSh 32,500 |
| Private Colleges | KSh 45,000 | KSh 3,500 | KSh 8,000 | KSh 56,500 |
Financial Aid Options:
HELB Loans (up to KSh 50,000)
NITA Bursaries (partial fee waivers)
County Government Sponsorships (full scholarships in some regions)
Can I study online?
Theory can be done online, but practical sessions are mandatory at accredited workshops.
Top 6 Colleges Offering the Course (2024 Ranking)
Public TVET Institutions
Nairobi Technical Training Institute
Location: Nairobi
Pass Rate: 96%
Job Placement: 94% (Kenya Power, Safaricom)
Contact: 020 2210568 | www.ntti.ac.ke
Eldoret National Polytechnic
Location: Uasin Gishu
Specialization: Industrial Electrical Systems
Contact: 053 2063111 | www.eldenpoly.ac.ke
Private Institutions
Kenya Technical Trainers College (KTTC)
Industry Partners: Kenya Power, Schneider Electric
Evening Classes: Yes
Contact: 0722 400462 | www.kttc.ac.ke
Mombasa Technical Training Institute
Specialization: Marine & Solar Electrical Systems
Contact: 041 2492223 | www.mtti.ac.ke
Public vs. Private Colleges: Which Is Better?
| Factor | Public TVETs | Private Colleges |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | More affordable (KSh 24K–35K) | Higher (KSh 45K–70K) |
| Facilities | Basic but sufficient | Advanced equipment (e.g., smart grids, solar labs) |
| Job Placements | Government projects (Rural Electrification) | Private sector (Safaricom, M-KOPA) |
Recommendation:
Choose public colleges if you want low-cost, government-backed training.
Choose private colleges if you prefer modern facilities and corporate job placements.
Career Opportunities & Salary Expectations
Top Employers in Kenya
Kenya Power & Lighting Company (KPLC) – KSh 40K–120K
Solar Energy Companies (M-KOPA, d.light, SolarNow) – KSh 35K–100K
Construction Firms (Bamburi, Ndenderu) – KSh 30K–80K
Self-Employment (Electrical Contracting) – KSh 50K–200K/month
2024 Salary Guide
| Job Role | Entry-Level Salary | 3+ Years Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | KSh 30,000 | KSh 60,000 |
| Solar Technician | KSh 35,000 | KSh 100,000 |
| Industrial Electrician | KSh 40,000 | KSh 120,000 |
International Job Opportunities
Middle East (Dubai, Qatar): KSh 150K–300K/month (industrial electricians)
East Africa (Tanzania, Rwanda): KSh 70K–150K/month (solar technicians)
Can I get a job immediately after this course?
Yes! 90% of graduates secure jobs within 6 months of certification.
Why Choose This Program?
Skills You Will Gain
Install & maintain electrical systems (homes, industries, offices)
Troubleshoot electrical faults using modern tools
Design solar power systems (high demand in Kenya)
Start your own electrical business (minimal capital required)
Enroll now and get free electrical tools worth KSh 10,000!
Challenges & Considerations
Physical Work Required: Climbing poles, lifting heavy cables
Competitive Job Market: Certification boosts employability
Safety Risks: Proper training minimizes hazards
Education Progression Pathways
Upgrade to Diploma in Electrical Engineering (2 years)
Specialize in Renewable Energy (6-month courses)
NITA Grade Tests for advanced certification
Student Success Stories
*"After my NITA certification, I joined Kenya Power. Now I earn KSh 85,000/month installing transformers."*
— James M., Nairobi
"This course helped me start my solar installation business. I now employ 5 people!"
— Susan K., Mombasa
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What’s the minimum grade required?
KCSE D (plain). No science subjects mandatory.
2. How much does the course cost?
KSh 24,000–70,000 depending on college.
3. Which college has the best job placement?
Nairobi Technical Institute (94% employment rate).
4. Is this course marketable?
Yes! High demand in Kenya & abroad.
5. Can I upgrade to a diploma?
Yes! Direct entry to Year 2 in most TVETs.
Conclusion
The Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation (NITA) is the best investment for anyone seeking a stable, high-paying career in Kenya’s booming energy sector. With affordable fees, strong job prospects, and global opportunities, this program is your fastest route to financial independence.
Apply today and get free career guidance + toolkits for early applicants!