Faculty of ScienceEgerton University,
Njoro Campus,
P.O. Box 536,
Njoro.
Telephone: + 254 51 62183
Fax: + 254 51 62527
Email address:
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Introduction
The programme for the training of technicians has been expanded following the establishment of four National Polytechnics and conversion of technical training institutes into facilities that train technicians. The student population in these institutions and those from secondary schools continues to grow. Indeed, the National Polytechnics have recorded an increase of between 10.5 and 20.7 % whereas the student enrolment in other technical training institutes and institutes of technology rose from 15,155 in 2000 to 17,801 in 2001, an increase of 17.5 per cent (Ministry of Economic Planning and National Development, Economic Survey, 2002). And in recognition of the fact that Kenya is geared towards industrialization by the year 2020, the country, therefore, requires technicians and technologists with adequate skills and knowledge in Chemistry and modern technology. The course is designed to meet the needs of analytical and industrial chemical laboratories in teaching, research, industrial chemical processes and quality control. The major fields of study shall include basic organic, inorganic and physical chemistry biochemical techniques, instrumental methods of analysis and general industrial processes.
Justification
The Department of Chemistry recognized the importance of technical training and launched a Certificate in Science Laboratory Programme. An average of thirty graduates per year have been trained since its inception three years ago. The Department of Chemistry has introduced Diploma in Modern Chemistry Laboratory Technology so as to address the national demand for quality-trained technicians. The programme aims to provide practical experience in modern analytical instrumentation and procedures, graded from basic equipment to the most up-to-date, microprocessor-controlled devices. The programme also aims at enabling the certificates graduates of Egerton University and those from other institutions to competitively access higher education. At the end of the second year of study the students will go for field/industrial attachment. The field placement will be an opportunity for students to practice and develop the analytical skills through work.
Objectives
At the end of the programme the graduates should be able to:
? Carry out modern chemistry laboratory analytical procedures in various research fields like agriculture, biochemistry, medicine, etc.
- Handle and maintain basic and modern equipments in teaching, research and quality control laboratories.
- Participate in the general implementation of sustainable scientific and technological developments in teaching, research and quality control.
- Plan and administer routine analysis and safety regulations in teaching, research and industrial environment.
- Pursue further education.
