After more than 20 years of construction, Ronald Ngala Utalii College in Kilifi South is finally preparing to welcome its first students on September 1, 2026. The institution aims to provide specialized training in tourism, hospitality, and related fields.
First Intake and Courses Offered
Approximately 200 prospective students have expressed interest in enrolling for the initial intake. The college will offer eight diploma programmes and seven certificate courses, including hotel management, hospitality management, travel and tourism, culinary arts, events management, and restaurant management.
Students pursuing diploma courses will also receive foreign language training, while certificate students will study languages at an intermediate level. Languages available include German, Italian, French, Japanese, and Chinese.
Access and Community Impact
Kenya Utalii College officials are focused on processing applications, particularly from Kilifi County, to ensure timely admission. Kilifi South MP Ken Chonga encouraged local students to take advantage of the institution’s offerings instead of leaving opportunities for outsiders.
Junju Location Chief Salome Tangai recalled community involvement in the college’s early development and expressed optimism about the positive impact the institution will have on youth training and employment prospects.
Financial Support Concerns
Despite the excitement, concerns remain about the affordability of training. MP Chonga urged dialogue with the Ministry of Tourism and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) to clarify available financial aid, ensuring students can cover their training costs throughout the programme.
Additional Training Options
The college will also provide shorter courses for students who do not meet the entry requirements for certificate or diploma programmes. These include customer care, communication, barista skills, banqueting, events, and foreign language courses.
The long-awaited opening of Ronald Ngala Utalii College marks a significant milestone for Kilifi South, promising to boost local skills development in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
