Meru National Polytechnic (MNP) is one of Kenya’s premier public technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions. Established under Legal Notice No. 94 of 2016 in accordance with the TVET Act, Meru NP has positioned itself as a leader in practical skills training and career-focused education.
With over 12,000 students enrolled in artisan, craft, diploma, and higher diploma programs, Meru NP plays a vital role in equipping Kenyan youth with market-relevant skills to drive economic growth. This article delves into the courses offered, fees structure, portal requirements, and other essential details about this leading institution.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Meru National Polytechnic
- Mission and Vision of Meru NP
- Location and Contact Details
- Intakes and Admission Guidelines
- Fee Payment and Sponsorship Opportunities
- Detailed List of Courses Offered (Table)
- Hostel and Accommodation Options
- How to Use the Meru NP Student Portal
1. Introduction to Meru National Polytechnic
Meru National Polytechnic is situated in Meru County, approximately 5 kilometers from Meru Town along the Nanyuki–Meru Road, adjacent to the Meru National Showground.
As an accredited Qualification Awarding Institution (QAI) under the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), Meru NP is authorized to develop curricula, assess, and issue certificates for competency-based education and training (CBET). Additionally, the institution collaborates with universities and other academic bodies to offer a wide range of courses.
2. Mission and Vision of Meru National Polytechnic
Mission:
To deliver quality technical and vocational training that produces dependable and skilled personnel for commerce and industry.
Vision:
To emerge as a global center of excellence in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
3. Location and Contact Details
- Postal Address: P.O. Box 111-60200, Meru
- Phone: +254 76 936 9680
- Email: info@mnp.ac.ke
- Website: mnp.ac.ke
- Location: Meru County, next to Meru National Showground, along Nanyuki–Meru Road.
4. Intakes and Admission Guidelines
Meru NP has three primary intakes annually: January, May, and September. Additionally, short courses are available during school holidays to meet the diverse needs of learners.
General Admission Requirements:
- Diploma Courses: KCSE mean grade of C- or a craft certificate in the relevant field.
- Craft Certificate Courses: KCSE mean grade of D or an artisan certificate.
- Artisan Courses: KCSE mean grade of D- or completion of KCPE.
Required Documents for Admission:
- KCPE and KCSE certificates or result slips
- Birth certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
- Completed application form
- Medical clearance
5. Fee Payment and Sponsorship Opportunities
Meru National Polytechnic requires students to pay tuition and other associated fees upon admission. Additional charges include student welfare fees, ID card fees, and examination fees, which vary based on the course.
Funding Options:
- Government Subsidies: The Ministry of Education provides capitation to offset part of the tuition fees for students in public TVET institutions.
- HELB Loans: Students are encouraged to apply for financial assistance from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
- Constituency Bursaries: Constituency Development Fund (CDF) bursaries can help offset costs.
- New Funding Model: Introduced in 2023, this model allocates financial support based on the level of need.
For a detailed fee breakdown, students should consult the official website or contact the admissions office.
6. Detailed List of Courses Offered
Meru National Polytechnic offers programs in engineering, business, ICT, agriculture, hospitality, and applied sciences. These programs are available at diploma, craft, and artisan levels, with certification by KNEC, NITA, KASNEB, or Meru NP itself for CBET courses.
| Department | Course | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Agricultural Extension Technician | Levels 4, 5, 6 |
| Agribusiness | Levels 4, 5, 6 | |
| Horticultural Nursery Management | Level 4 | |
| Applied Sciences | Applied Biology | Levels 5, 6 |
| Food Science Technology | Levels 5, 6 | |
| Analytical Chemistry | Level 6 | |
| Building & Civil Engineering | Quantity Surveying | Level 6 |
| Civil Engineering | Level 6 | |
| Business & Accountancy | Office Administrator | Levels 5, 6 |
| Human Resource Assistant | Levels 5, 6 | |
| ICT & Informatics | Information Technology | Levels 5, 6 |
| Journalism & Mass Communication | Level 6 | |
| Mechanical Engineering | Automotive Engineering Technician | Levels 4, 5, 6 |
| Tourism & Hospitality | Catering & Accommodation | Levels 4, 5, 6 |
| Tour Guiding | Levels 5, 6 |
For the complete course list and entry requirements, visit the official website.
7. Hostel and Accommodation Options
Meru National Polytechnic has 10 hostels on campus—5 for male students and 5 for female students. Hostel spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and bookings can be made via the student portal after paying the required fees.
For those unable to secure on-campus accommodation, several private hostels near the institution offer convenient alternatives.
8. How to Use the Meru NP Student Portal
The Meru National Polytechnic student portal is a critical resource for both students and staff, offering access to a range of services, including:
- Fee statements
- Online reporting
- Hostel bookings
- Internal exam results
Steps to Access the Portal:
- Visit portal.mnp.ac.ke.
- Register using your student admission number.
- Log in to access the available services.
For technical support, contact the institution’s ICT department.
