Twenty Fire Safety Graduates Poised to Champion Community Safety - Morendat Institute of Oil & Gas National Polytechnic

Twenty participants from the Viwandani community have completed a 10-day Basic Firefighting Training Program at the MIOG-NP, Eldoret Fire & Safety Training Centre.

The training, held from 13th to 24th July 2026, was fully sponsored by the KPC PLC Foundation as part of its commitment to community empowerment and skills development. In attendance was MIOG-NP Director, Dr. Nancy Kosgei, and Ms. Gloria Khafafa, representing the KPC PLC Foundation Board of Trustees. Together, their presence underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to enhancing community safety through practical skills development.

Learning to Prevent and Respond to Fire Emergencies

Throughout the programme, participants gained essential knowledge and practical skills in fire prevention and emergency response. Specifically, they developed a deeper understanding of fire behaviour, fire prevention, the different classes of fire, and the appropriate use of fire extinguishers.

Furthermore, participants received training on personal protective equipment (PPE), workplace safety protocols, and basic fire suppression techniques. As a result, the graduates are now equipped to serve as community fire safety champions. Furthermore, they will help promote fire prevention awareness and support emergency preparedness efforts within their communities.

From Classroom Learning to Practical Response

The programme placed strong emphasis on experiential learning. Through practical simulations, participants applied the knowledge gained in the classroom while building confidence in emergency response.

In addition, they received hands-on instruction in handling firefighting equipment, assessing risks, and following established emergency procedures. Consequently, the practical exercises strengthened their ability to act quickly and effectively as first responders within their communities and workplaces.

Graduating as Community Safety Champions

The program culminated in a certificate-awarding ceremony, marking the successful completion of the training. Additionally, the certificates recognized the participants’ commitment and the practical fire safety skills they had acquired.

Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Nancy Kosgei reaffirmed MIOG-NP’s commitment to empowering communities through practical, industry-driven skills training. She said, “Through industry-driven training, MIOG-NP is building a skilled workforce capable of responding confidently to emergencies and safeguarding communities. Equipping communities with practical safety skills is an investment in resilience. Every trained individual becomes a valuable resource in protecting lives, property, and the environment.”

Similarly, Ms. Gloria Khafafa reaffirmed the KPC Foundation’s commitment to investing in human capital through skills development. She stated, “At KPC Foundation, we believe our greatest investment is not in equipment alone; it is in people. When communities are equipped with knowledge, confidence, and the courage to act, they gain something invaluable: resilience.”

Strengthening Safer and More Resilient Communities

Overall, the initiative demonstrates the impact of strategic partnerships in advancing community development through skills training. By combining the KPC PLC Foundation’s investment in community empowerment with MIOG-NP’s technical expertise, the program has equipped participants with practical, industry-relevant competencies that can make a meaningful difference.

In addition, the training supports broader efforts to strengthen emergency preparedness while creating opportunities for lifelong learning and sustainable livelihoods.

Ultimately, through its continued commitment to excellence in technical training and community empowerment, MIOG-NP remains dedicated to building safer, more resilient communities across the country.