Background Information

The English Department is a pillar department in any institution of learning. This is due to the fact that English is not only a second language in Kenya, but it is one of the international languages that is quickly becoming a global lingua franca. This means that for an individual to progress academically, socially and economically then proficiency in English becomes an important yardstick.

In Kenya, English is an official language; it tends to be used in offices, courts, public meetings, church and parliament. Apart from that English is a medium of instruction in Kenya. It cuts across the curriculum. All subjects except Kiswahili and foreign languages (French, German, Arabic, Hindu) are taught in English. What is more, all examinations except Kiswahili and the foreign languages are set in English. This means that for any student to progress academically, proficiency in English is a necessity.

It is no wonder that Kenya Technical Teachers College, like all other institutions of learning, take the teaching of English very seriously. Teacher-trainees who are proficient in English and have good communication skills will be able to go through their academic course with ease, and will in future deliver their lessons more effectively.

The English Department is a Service Department in Kenya Technical Teachers College. All students taking Diploma in Education are supposed to undertake a course in Communication Skills to help them go through their course with ease and later deliver their lesson effectively as English is the medium of instruction.To ensure this, the English course is divided into three main areas taught per term. These are: Language use, Oral communication and Written communication.

Apart from teachers-trainees, English is offered to all Technical Examination Programme, (TEP) Diploma students. These students undertake the following areas in their Communication skill course: Effective Communication, Official Etiquette, Protocol and Diplomacy, Writing Skills, Meetings, Interviews, Public Relations and Emerging Issues in Communication.

The English Department aims at enhancing and developing communication skills in the learners so that they can be better people in our society.

MRS. HILDA OMWOYO,

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT.

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