Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT)

Building the Future: A Guide to the Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT)

The Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT) is a training school under the State Department of Roads.It is part of the Ministry of Roads and Transport. KIHBT was started in 1948, and it has a history of helping to build roads and infrastructure in Kenya and East Africa.The institute aims to be the training school for building roads and infrastructure in Africa.KIHBT provides the technical training that is needed for Africa to move forward.The Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology does this to help Africa make progress.

Campuses and Locations

KIHBT operates three main campuses, each with its unique focus and history:

• Nairobi Campus (Main Campus): Located on Commercial Street, Industrial Area, Nairobi. It serves as the administrative hub and provides training for ministerial staff and the wider infrastructure sector.
• Ngong Campus (Kajiado County): This campus includes the Plant Training School (PTS) and the Field Practical Unit (FPU), focusing on specialized practical training and heavy machinery.
• Kisii Campus: Established in 1978, it originally focused on training supervisory staff for rural road programs and remains a vital training center in the region.

Plans are also underway to expand with new campuses in Taita Taveta, Busia, and Marsabit to further increase regional reach.

Contact Details

For inquiries and further information, you can reach KIHBT through the following official channels:

• Physical Address: Commercial Street, Industrial Area, Nairobi.
• Postal Address: P.O. Box 57511 – 00200, Nairobi, Kenya.
• Phone Contacts: 0202465760 / 0202465761 / 0202390758 / 0115827053.
• Official Email: principal@kihbt.ac.ke
• Website: www.kihbt.ac.ke
• Student Portal: kims.kihbt.ac.ke

Academic Courses Offered

KIHBT offers a wide range of programs categorized into different levels to suit various educational backgrounds:

Diploma Courses

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Building Technology
• Highway Engineering
• Road Transport Management
• Quantity Surveying
• Land Surveying
• Higher Diploma in Building, Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering

Certificate and Craft Courses

• Contract Management and Administration
• Construction Plant Mechanics
• Road Construction
• Plumbing and Pipe Fitting
• Electrical Installation
• Automotive Mechanics
• Telecommunication

Short Courses and Capacity Building

Tailored for professionals, these include AutoCAD, Road Safety Management, Heavy Plant Operator Training, and Project Management in Construction.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students must meet the following academic thresholds:

• For Diploma Courses: A minimum aggregate of C- (Minus) in KCSE (or equivalent), with specific requirements in Mathematics, English, and Physics/Physical Science. Alternatively, a relevant certificate from a recognized institution.
• For Certificate Courses: A minimum aggregate of D (Plain) in KCSE (or equivalent), with a D (Plain) in Mathematics and English.

Fees Structure 2026

The fee structure at KIHBT is competitive and categorized by the level of study. All fees are for day scholars, with optional hostel accommodation available at KSh 27,000 per term.

Program Level	Estimated First Year Total (KSh)
Higher Diploma	Approximately 68,650
Module I Diploma (TVET)	Approximately 64,420
Stage I Diploma (TEP)	Approximately 60,420
Module I Craft (TVET)	Approximately 63,420

Note: Fees are subject to review. Detailed breakdowns for each term and module can be downloaded from the official KIHBT website.

Student Life and Facilities

KIHBT offers a holistic learning experience that combines rigorous academics with practical exposure and personal growth.

Campus Facilities

The institute is well-equipped with modern facilities, including specialized engineering labs, a library, and the requisite machinery for practical training. The focus on hands-on learning ensures students are well-prepared for the industry.

Extracurricular Activities and Student Life

• Clubs and Sports: Students participate in various sports and clubs that promote social interaction and team building.
• Student Exchange Programs: KIHBT has engaged in physical student exchange programs with institutions like the National Institute of Transport in Dar es Salaam, broadening students’ perspectives.
• Alumni Network: A growing network of over 5,000 registered alumni provides a strong community for mentorship and career opportunities.

Application Process

KIHBT has streamlined its application process through modern digital platforms:

1. Online via KIMS Student Portal (Recommended): Visit kims.kihbt.ac.ke to browse programs and apply securely.
2. Via eCitizen: Log in at kihbt.ecitizen.go.ke, select your course choices, upload documents, and make the application payment.
3. Walk-in: Visit the Registrar’s Office at any campus, pay a non-refundable application fee of KES 1,000 at the National Bank of Kenya, and submit your forms.

Required Documents: Completed form, copy of National ID/Passport, academic certificates, and the application fee receipt.

Why Choose KIHBT?

• Industry Reputation: As a government institution with over 75 years of experience, KIHBT is highly regarded by employers in the infrastructure sector.
• Practical Focus: The curriculum is heavily weighted toward practical, hands-on training using modern equipment.
• Regional Reach: KIHBT’s influence extends beyond Kenya, building capacity in the East African region.
• Professional Certification: Programs are designed to enhance employability and provide recognized certifications in the infrastructure sector.

Conclusion

The Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology remains a cornerstone of engineering and infrastructure training in Africa. For those looking to build a career in civil engineering, road construction, or building technology, KIHBT provides the perfect foundation of knowledge and practical skills.