Consultancy Report - The Development of a Training Plan for KARI Center Maintenance Personnel

Abstract

This report outlines the development of preventative maintenance programs and a preliminary training plan for maintenance personnel at Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) centers. Over the course of one month, direct collaboration with Dr. Bill Hires facilitated visits to several KARI centers, including Kitale, Kakamega, Mtwapa, Muguga, and Nairobi. During these visits, input was solicited from center directors, farm managers, mechanics, lab technologists, plant pathologists, and entomologists to identify critical non-academic training needs. Consistently highlighted were two primary areas: Tractor Maintenance and Operation, and General Shop Skills. In total, 20 training topics were recommended, supported by a detailed account of discussions and a day-by-day record of activities. Appendices provide additional insights, including reports from each center and a list of essential tools. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the capabilities of KARI personnel, ultimately improving operational efficiency across the organization.