John Kang’ethe is the founder the Sensei Institute of Technology.
The businessman disclosed that he initiated the institution in response to the difficulties posed by a shortage of qualified personnel in the construction sector.
Kang’ethe noted that he often faced disappointment with the performance of heavy machinery operators he employed at his construction sites, which jeopardized the quality of his projects.
This experience motivated him to launch a college in 2013 aimed at delivering technical training that meets industry standards.
Sensei Institute of Technology offers specialized training in more than fifty distinct courses, including construction machinery operation, security systems and automotive engineering.
”Our primary goal is to equip African youth with the market-ready, practical skills they need to succeed in various industries. We address the skills gap in Kenya by offering hands-on, practical training aligned with industry demands,” he said.
Kang’ethe disclosed that initially, it was challenging to expand the institution while ensuring the quality of practical training remained intact.
He also acknowledged that errors made during his early years had a considerable effect on his business.
”Early on, we underestimated the demand for skilled labor in certain industries, which led to some courses being under-enrolled. We learned to stay flexible, constantly assess market demands, and be proactive in adjusting our course offerings,” he added.
The institution achieved profitability by consistently enhancing its training equipment and collaborating with industry professionals, which ultimately resulted in the establishment of its second branch in Nairobi.
”A key decision was the expansion to a second campus, which allowed us to accommodate more students and introduce new courses. This move, along with partnering with industries for job placements, significantly contributed to our growth,” he added.
Kang’ethe noted that by providing distinctive courses aligned with industry requirements, Sensei Institute has enabled its graduates to remain pertinent in the constantly evolving Kenyan market.
”Don’t be afraid to start small, but always keep the bigger picture in mind. The key to success is solving real problems and staying adaptable in a constantly changing environment,” he stated.
