KIHBT Courses continue to shape Kenya’s technical and infrastructure workforce through structured training in engineering, construction and related disciplines. The Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology, widely known as KIHBT, has operated as a government institution since 1948. Initially established to provide technical expertise to Ministry of Roads personnel, the institute has steadily expanded its mandate. Today, it admits learners from diverse professional and academic backgrounds, including students from across the sub Saharan region.
The evolution of KIHBT Courses reflects Kenya’s growing infrastructure sector. As road networks, urban development and construction industries expand, demand for skilled technicians and engineers has increased. Consequently, the institute now offers higher diplomas, diplomas, certificates and craft certificate programmes designed to meet national and regional standards. These programmes combine theoretical instruction with practical training to ensure graduates possess industry ready competencies.
Understanding KIHBT Courses, entry requirements and fees is essential for prospective applicants. Because the institution operates across multiple campuses including Nairobi Main Campus, Ngong Campus and Kisii Training Centre, course availability may vary by location. Therefore, applicants should carefully review programme levels, intake periods and financial commitments before applying.
Overview of KIHBT Courses by Level
Programme Categories at KIHBT
KIHBT Courses fall into four main academic levels:
- Higher Diploma
- Diploma
- Certificate
- Craft Certificate
Additionally, the institute offers specialized short courses tailored to professionals seeking skills upgrades.
KIHBT Higher Diploma Courses
Structure and Duration
KIHBT Courses at the Higher Diploma level are offered exclusively at the Nairobi Main Campus. These programmes take two years to complete. Intakes are conducted annually in May. Students are examined by the Technical University of Mombasa and the Kenya National Examinations Council.
List of Higher Diploma Programmes
- Higher Diploma in Building and Civil Engineering
- Higher Diploma in Building Economics
- Higher Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Higher Diploma in Highway Engineering
- Higher Diploma in Structural Engineering
- Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Automotive and Plant Option
Entry Requirements for Higher Diploma
Applicants must hold a Diploma in a relevant field and a Part III certificate.
Higher Diploma Fees Per Term
Tuition Fee: Kshs 26,550
KIHBT Diploma Courses
Duration and Intake
KIHBT Courses at Diploma level typically take three years to complete. Intakes are conducted annually in September.
List of Diploma Programmes
- Diploma in Computer Studies
- Diploma in Construction
- Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Diploma in Land Survey
- Diploma in Highway Engineering
- Diploma in Architecture
- Diploma in Quantity Surveying
- Diploma in Building Technology
- Diploma in Construction Plant
- Diploma in Automotive Engineering
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- Diploma in Building and Civil Engineering
Entry Requirements for Diploma Courses
Applicants must have:
C minus in KCSE or Division II in EACE or KCE
Credit passes in English Language
Mathematics
Physics or Physical Science
Diploma Fees Per Term
Tuition: Kshs 22,000
Meals and Accommodation: Kshs 17,000
KIHBT Certificate Courses
Location and Examination
Most KIHBT Courses at Certificate level are taught at the Ngong Campus. These programmes may take up to three years to complete. Students are examined by the National Industrial Training Authority.
Certificate Programmes Offered
- Auto Electrician
- Carpentry and Joinery
- Construction Plant Mechanics
- Painting and Decorating
- Plumbing and Pipe Fitting
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Entry Requirements for Certificate Courses
D grade in KCSE or Division III in EACE or KCE
Pass in English Language or Kiswahili
Pass in Physics or Physical Science
Pass in Mathematics
Certificate Fees Per Term
Tuition and Other Levies: Kshs 19,500
Meals and Accommodation: Kshs 17,000
KIHBT Craft Certificate Courses
Programme Duration
Craft Certificate KIHBT Courses take up to two years to complete. These programmes are examined by the Kenya National Examinations Council.
Craft Certificate Programmes
- Automotive Mechanics Module 1
- Electrical Installation Module 1
- Masonry
- Roads Construction
- Telecommunication Module 1
- Welding and Fabrication
Admission Requirements
D grade in KCSE or Division III in EACE or KCE
Pass in English Language or Kiswahili
Pass in Physics or Physical Science
Pass in Mathematics
Craft Certificate Fees Per Term
Tuition and Other Levies: Kshs 19,500
Meals and Accommodation: Kshs 17,000
KIHBT Short Courses
Professional Skills Development
In addition to structured academic programmes, KIHBT Courses include short term professional training modules. These courses are designed for working professionals, school leavers and technical practitioners seeking targeted skill enhancement.
List of Short Courses and Fees
AutoCAD and ArchiCAD 2 weeks Kshs 15,000
Basic Computer Applications 3 weeks Kshs 10,000
Basic Training Course for Engineers 2 weeks Kshs 25,000
Building Supervisors 6 weeks Kshs 40,000
Defensive Driving 1 week Kshs 10,000
Elementary Driving for school leavers 4 weeks Kshs 11,000
Fire Safety and Disaster Preparedness 1 week Kshs 25,000
First Aid 5 days Kshs 6,000
Fleet Management 1 week Kshs 30,000
Plant Operators 2 months Kshs 65,000
Refresher Course for Drivers 1 week Kshs 10,000
Road Overseers 6 weeks Kshs 126,000
Fees are subject to change at the discretion of the institution. Applicants are encouraged to confirm updated charges directly with the institute before enrollment.
KIHBT Campuses and Academic Structure
Nairobi Main Campus
The Nairobi Main Campus primarily hosts Higher Diploma and Diploma KIHBT Courses. It functions as the central administrative hub of the institution.
Ngong Campus
Most Certificate KIHBT Courses are delivered at Ngong Campus. The campus emphasizes practical skill training aligned with industrial standards.
Kisii Training Centre
The Kisii Training Centre supports selected technical programmes and extends KIHBT’s reach to western Kenya.
KIHBT Contact Information
Prospective applicants seeking clarification regarding KIHBT Courses, admission requirements or fee structures can contact the institute through the following channels:
Phone: 0202465760 / 0202465761
Email: [email protected]
KIHBT Courses continue to contribute significantly to Kenya’s infrastructure and engineering sectors by equipping learners with practical technical competencies. Through structured programmes across multiple campuses, the institute remains a key pillar in national technical education and workforce development.
