MERU UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

SCHOOL OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATICS

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

CCS3380

REGISTRATION NO: CT201/102074/20

NAME: MWATHE JONATHAN KIOKO

INDURSTRIAL ATTACHMENT REPORT

DURATION: 11 Weeks

COMMENCE: 13/05/2024

COMPLETED: 26/07/2024

ORGANIZATION: MAKUENI TECH AND INNOVATION HUB

MAY-JULY 2024

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DECLARATION
I M w a t h e J o n a t h a n K i o k o hereby declare without any doubt that the work presented
in this attachment report is my own original and independent work. It has neither been
presented before for any academic award nor the School of Computing for the award of
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science of Meru University of Science & Technology.
No part of this report shall therefore be duplicated without my prior consent.

NAME: Mwathe Jonathan Kioko REG NO: CT201/102074/20

SIGNATURE ……………DATE …………………………

MAKUENI TECH AND INNOVATION HUB

INDUSTRIAL SUPERVISOR: PURITY MUTINDA/MAMBO MAITHYA

SIGNATURE ……………. DATE …………………STAMP…………………

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This attachment would not have been successful without the cooperation and
support of a number of people who enabled me to gain much more than what the
industrial aspects of the attachment could have offered. First, I would like to appreciate the
Almighty God for the charitable time, good health, strength and aptitude that enabled me to
complete my attachment period. Secondly, my gratitude goes to Meru University academic
staff that has imparted their vast knowledge that has assisted me during my industrial
attachment. Special thanks go to Dr.Anthony Irungu the attachment coordinator who gave me
the opportunity for attachment and his unwavering guidance in the field of Computer Science.
Thirdly,appreciation also go to the management and the ICT staff of Makueni
county government, more so my industry based supervisors, Madam Purity
Mutinda and M.r Mambo Maithya, for their unwavering support by giving me a
chance to be part of them for period 11 weeks. Worth mentioning is the invaluable
support and guidance that I constantly got throughout my industrial attachment from the
administration and more so from the ICT department fraternity of that I had more
opportunity interacting with and for guiding and supporting me to gain experience in
several fields in both Networking, troubleshooting, pc repairs and maintenances and also
making the working environment conducive and friendly. Such experience cannot be attained in
an ordinary class environment and are largely interplay between the class-based inputs from my
lecturers. Finally, I would like to thank my loving parents and friends for their support
throughout the entire period of my attachment

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DEDICATION
I dedicate this work to my family for being my inspiration and for their endless support
throughout my academic journey

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Contents
DECLARATION..........................................................................................................................................i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.........................................................................................................................ii
DEDICATION............................................................................................................................................iii
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Brief Description of the Organization............................................................................................1
1.3 History of Makueni County Government......................................................................................2
1.3.1 Key milestones in the history of Makueni County Government include:.............................2
1.3.2 Programs Offered by the ICT Department at Makueni County Government.....................3
1.4 Location......................................................................................................................................5
1.5 Organizational Structure................................................................................................................6
1.6 Profiles of Skills and Competencies................................................................................................7
1.6.2 Communication Skills...............................................................................................................7
1.6.3 Responsibility and Accountability...........................................................................................8
1.6.4 Professionalism.........................................................................................................................8
1.6.5 Adaptability and Flexibility.....................................................................................................8
1.6.6 Time Management....................................................................................................................8
1.7 Vision, Mission Statement, Core Values and Mandate.................................................................9
1.7.1 Vision.........................................................................................................................................9
1.7.2 Mission.......................................................................................................................................9
1.7.3 Core Values...............................................................................................................................9
1.7.4 Mandate.....................................................................................................................................9
CHAPTER TWO: INDUSTRIAL TRAINING EXPERIENCE..........................................................10
2.1 Duties and Responsibilities...........................................................................................................10
2.2 New Knowledge and Skills Gained...............................................................................................11
2.3 Relationship with Other Staff.......................................................................................................12
2.4 Things Enjoyed Most and Why....................................................................................................13
2.5 Things Enjoyed Least and Why....................................................................................................13
2.6 Challenges Experienced and How Handled.................................................................................14
2.7 Major Benefits Derived from the Industrial Attachment Program...........................................14
CHAPTER THREE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS...............................................15

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 Conclusion............................................................................................................................................15
Recommendations................................................................................................................................16
References................................................................................................................................................17
Appendices...............................................................................................................................................18

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CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
I was attached at Makueni Tech and Innovation Hub. This organization is located in Wote
Greenpark, Wote town, along Wote Mwaani road. The aim of writing this report is to give
detailed information about my attachment experience at Makueni Tech and Innovation Hub. This
is a requirement for the partial fulfillment for the award of a Degree in Bachelor of Computer
Science at the Meru University of Science and Technology. The focus of the report is on the
duties and responsibilities that I was accorded by my supervisor, the exposure I had, the
overwhelming experience that I got to enjoy and my observations regarding the organization.
The history, the vision, the mission, the core values, the key functions as well as the duties and
responsibilities of the department that I was allocated at are also included in this report.

1.2 Brief Description of the Organization

Makueni County Government's ICT Department is dedicated to enhancing technological
innovation and efficiency within the county. The department supports various county functions
by providing reliable ICT services and infrastructure. It aims to improve service delivery, ensure
data security, and foster a tech-savvy environment for staff and residents. Key focus areas of the
ICT department include:

 Checking Switch Status: Monitoring and maintaining network switches to ensure optimal
performance.
 Relocating and Reforming Computer Systems: Managing the relocation and setup of
computer systems for different departments.
 Replacement of UPS Machines: Ensuring uninterrupted power supply by replacing and
maintaining UPS machines.
 Installation of Windows OS: Installing and configuring Windows operating systems on
county computers.
 Internet Troubleshooting/Network Configuration: Resolving internet connectivity issues
and configuring network settings.
 Networking: Setting up and maintaining the local area network (LAN) and wide area
network (WAN).
 Installation of Printers: Installing and configuring printers on the county's network.

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  Ethernet Cable Design: Designing and implementing Ethernet cabling for network
connectivity.

1.3 History of Makueni County Government

Makueni County Government was established in 2013 following the promulgation of the 2010
Constitution of Kenya, which introduced devolved governments. This new governance structure
aimed to bring services closer to the people, enhance local development, and ensure equitable
distribution of resources.

The inaugural Makueni County Government was sworn in on March 27, 2013, with the election
of the first Governor, Professor Kivutha Kibwana. This marked a significant milestone in the
county’s history, as it transitioned from a centrally administered district to a semi-autonomous
county government. The establishment of the county government signaled a new era of self-
governance, local empowerment, and focused development initiatives. Over the years, Makueni
County Government has made substantial progress in various sectors including health, education,
agriculture, infrastructure, and information technology. Key initiatives and projects have been
launched to improve the quality of life for residents, foster economic growth, and enhance
service delivery. The county government has also prioritized innovation and technological
advancement as pivotal components of its development strategy. By creating a supportive
environment for entrepreneurs and startups, the government aims to catalyze economic growth
and position Makueni as a hub for technological innovation.

1.3.1 Key milestones in the history of Makueni County Government include:

2013: Establishment of the county government following the first general elections under the
new constitution.

2014: Launch of various development projects aimed at improving healthcare, education, and
infrastructure.

2016: Introduction of the Makueni County Public Participation Framework to ensure inclusive
decision-making and governance.

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2018: Launch of the Universal Health Coverage program, making Makueni one of the first
counties to implement this initiative.

2020: Establishment of the Makueni Innovation Hub to support local startups and technological
advancements.

1.3.2 Programs Offered by the ICT Department at Makueni County Government

1.3.2.1 Network and Infrastructure Programs

a) Network Management and Configuration: Regular programs aimed at maintaining and

upgrading the county’s network infrastructure, including switch and router configuration,
network monitoring, and troubleshooting.
b) Server Administration: Training and support for managing the county’s server
infrastructure, including installation, configuration, maintenance, and security.
c) Data Center Management: Programs focused on the efficient operation of the county’s
data centers, including cooling, power management, and physical security.

1.3.2.2 Cybersecurity Programs

a) Cybersecurity Awareness Training: Regular training sessions for county staff on best
practices for cybersecurity, including identifying phishing attempts, safe internet usage,
and password management.
b) Incident Response Planning: Development and regular updating of the county’s
incident response plan to ensure quick and effective responses to cybersecurity incidents.
c) Security Audits: Periodic security audits to identify vulnerabilities in the county’s ICT
infrastructure and implement necessary security measures.

1.3.2.3 Software and Application Development

a) In-House Application Development: Programs focused on developing custom software

applications tailored to the needs of various county departments.
b) Website Development and Maintenance: Ongoing projects to update, maintain, and
improve the county government’s website, ensuring it remains user-friendly and
accessible.

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 c) Database Management: Programs aimed at maintaining and optimizing the county’s
databases, ensuring data integrity, security, and availability.

1.3.2.4 ICT Support and Help Desk Programs

a) Help Desk Operations: Management of the ICT help desk to provide timely support to
county staff, including ticketing system management, troubleshooting, and resolution of
technical issues.
b) User Training and Support: Regular training sessions for county staff on the use of
various software applications and ICT tools to enhance productivity and efficiency.
c) Equipment Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance programs for ICT equipment,
including computers, printers, and network devices, to ensure they remain operational
and efficient.

1.3.2.5 Innovation and Technological Advancement

a) Tech Innovation Challenges: Organizing and hosting innovation challenges to foster

technological creativity and problem-solving among staff and the local community.
b) Tech Boot Camps and Workshops: Conducting boot camps and workshops on
emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and block chain,
to keep staff updated on the latest trends.
c) Collaborations with Tech Hubs: Partnering with local and national tech hubs to
promote innovation, support startups, and enhance the county’s technological ecosystem.

1.3.2.6 Community Outreach and Development Programs

a) Digital Literacy Training: Programs aimed at improving digital literacy among the
residents of Makueni County, including basic computer skills, internet usage, and online
safety.
b) ICT for Education: Initiatives to integrate ICT in local schools, providing students and
teachers with the necessary tools and training to enhance learning through technology.
c) Public Wi-Fi Projects: Establishing public Wi-Fi hotspots in strategic locations within
the county to provide residents with free internet access, promoting digital inclusion.

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1.3.2.7 Business and Enterprise Support

a) MSME Support Programs: Providing technical support and training to micro, small,
and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to help them leverage technology for business growth.
b) E-Commerce Training: Programs focused on training local businesses on e-commerce
platforms, digital marketing, and online payment systems to expand their market reach.
c) Business Incubation: Offering incubation services for tech startups, including
mentoring, office space, and access to funding opportunities to nurture and grow
innovative business ideas.

1.4 Location
Makueni Tech and Innovation Hub is strategically located in Wote town. The office is situated
along the Wote-Mwaani road. It is located in Wote Greenpark

Detailed Directions:
 From Nairobi:

1. Take the Mombasa Road (A109) towards Mombasa.

2. Turn left at the Makindu junction onto the Makindu-Wote road.
3. Continue on this road for approximately 52 kilometers to reach Wote town.
4. The Makueni Tech and Inovation Hub is prominently located along wote-Mwaani
road, a few metres past the central business district of Wote.

Nearby Landmarks:

 Wote catholic church

 Wote Market: A bustling market area within walking distance, providing a variety of
goods and services.

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 1.5 Organizational Structure

Governor/Deputy Governor

County CS

Executive Committee member ICT,

Other ECMS
Education and Internship

Chief officer Education and

Internship Chief ICT Officer

Director ICT/Assistant Director

Networks &
Projects and
Application sector Innovation Hub Telecommunications Technical support
capacity building
sector

Knowledge ICT
Management Support

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1.6 Profiles of Skills and Competencies

During the entire period of attachment at Makueni County Government, I have had the
opportunity to interact with various individuals, engage in diverse activities, and work with
different departments. These experiences have significantly contributed to the development of
various skills and competencies in Information Technology as well as in other essential areas.
Below is a detailed profile of the skills and competencies acquired:

1.6.1 Technical Skills

 IT Support and Troubleshooting: Gained proficiency in providing technical support to

users, diagnosing and resolving hardware and software issues, and managing IT support
tickets.
 Network Management: Developed skills in monitoring, configuring, and
troubleshooting network devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls to ensure
optimal network performance.
 System Administration: Acquired experience in server management, including
installation, configuration, maintenance, and backup and recovery procedures.
 Software Development: Enhanced abilities in developing, maintaining, and supporting
in-house applications, as well as updating and managing the county’s website.
 Database Management: Gained knowledge in managing databases, ensuring data
integrity, and optimizing database performance.

1.6.2 Communication Skills

 Interpersonal Communication: Improved communication skills through regular

interaction with clients, staff, and visitors, ensuring effective information exchange and
problem resolution.
 Professional Correspondence: Learned to compose clear and concise emails, reports,
and documentation, ensuring professional and effective written communication.
 User Training and Support: Developed the ability to explain technical concepts in
simple terms to non-technical users, providing training and support for various software
applications and ICT tools.

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1.6.3 Responsibility and Accountability

 Office Management: Gained experience in managing office responsibilities, including

receiving visitors, attending to their needs, and addressing issues to the best of my ability.
 Task Management: Learned to handle responsibilities assigned by staff, ensuring tasks
were completed accurately and efficiently, and consulting when encountering difficulties.
 Deadline Adherence: Developed the ability to meet deadlines consistently, ensuring
timely completion of tasks and projects.

1.6.4 Professionalism

 Punctuality: Maintained a high level of punctuality, adhering to office hours and

ensuring timely attendance and departure from the institution.
 Ethical Conduct: Learned about professional codes of ethics and their importance in the
workplace, applying these principles to handle office activities and interact with clients
professionally.
 Workplace Etiquette: Developed an understanding of workplace etiquette, including
appropriate dress, behavior, and communication in a professional setting.

1.6.5 Adaptability and Flexibility

 Adaptability: Gained the ability to adapt to different situations and work environments,
learning to be flexible and open to new challenges and tasks.
 Problem-Solving: Developed problem-solving skills by tackling various technical and
non-technical issues, finding effective solutions, and learning from each experience.
 Multitasking: Enhanced the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, balancing
priorities and ensuring all tasks were completed efficiently.

1.6.6 Time Management

 Time Management: Advanced my time management skills, learning to balance work

responsibilities and personal life effectively without compromising on either.

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  Task Prioritization: Learned to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance,
ensuring efficient use of time and resources.

1.7 Vision, Mission Statement, Core Values and Mandate

1.7.1 Vision
To be a world-class provider of cost effective public utilities, infrastructure, facilities and
services in the area of energy, transport and build environment.

1.7.2 Mission
To provide efficient, affordable and reliable infrastructure for sustainable economic growth and
development

1.7.3 Core Values

1. Integrity

2. Customer focus

3. Accountability,

4. Result orientation

5. Innovation

6. Inclusivity

7. Teamwork

1.7.4 Mandate
The Mandate of the ICT directorate is to apply Information Technology to transform the
Management and operations of Makueni County. This is anchored on development of citizen
oriented services and enhanced service delivery of other arms of Government. The directorate is
charged with the responsibility of developing, maintaining and sustaining ICT systems within the
County Government. This includes but not limited to development of automated application
portfolios, network infrastructure and troubleshooting of these systems to ensure that they are
operational at all times Our functions & Mandate. (n.d.).

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ICT systems are deployed to serve various public needs and ultimately result in reduced turn-
around time, reduced corruption, increased transparency, greater convenience, revenue growth
and cost reduction. All this translates to operational efficiencies and effectiveness in customer
service delivery.

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CHAPTER TWO: INDUSTRIAL TRAINING EXPERIENCE
2.1 Duties and Responsibilities

During my industrial attachment at Makueni County Government, I was entrusted with a variety
of duties and responsibilities, which provided me with a comprehensive learning experience.
These duties included:

 Technical Support: Providing technical assistance to staff, troubleshooting hardware

and software issues, and ensuring smooth operation of IT equipment.
 Network Management: Assisting in the configuration, monitoring, and maintenance of
the county’s network infrastructure.
 System Administration: Supporting the management of servers, including tasks related
to installation, configuration, maintenance, and backup.
 Software Development: Assisting in the development and maintenance of in-house
applications and updating the county’s website.
 Database Management: Helping manage the county’s databases, ensuring data integrity
and optimizing database performance.
 User Training: Conducting training sessions for staff on various software applications
and ICT tools.

2.2 New Knowledge and Skills Gained

Each duty and responsibility assigned during my attachment helped me gain new knowledge and
skills:

 Technical Support:

 New Knowledge/Skills: Learned advanced troubleshooting techniques, familiarized

with common hardware and software issues, and improved problem-solving skills.
 Level of Accomplishment: Successfully resolved numerous technical issues,
ensuring minimal downtime for staff and contributing to improved overall IT
efficiency.

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 Network Management:

 New Knowledge/Skills: Gained knowledge in network configuration, monitoring

tools, and troubleshooting network issues.
 Level of Accomplishment: Assisted in optimizing network performance, ensuring
stable and reliable connectivity for the county’s operations.

 System Administration:

 New Knowledge/Skills: Learned server management practices, including installation,

configuration, and maintenance routines.
 Level of Accomplishment: Supported the IT team in maintaining server uptime and
security, contributing to the smooth operation of critical applications.

 Software Development:

 New Knowledge/Skills: Acquired skills in coding, debugging, and maintaining web

applications using relevant programming languages and frameworks.
 Level of Accomplishment: Contributed to the development and improvement of in-
house applications, enhancing their functionality and user experience.

 Database Management:

 New Knowledge/Skills: Learned database management techniques, including data

backup, recovery, and optimization.
 Level of Accomplishment: Assisted in maintaining data integrity and improving
database performance, ensuring reliable access to essential information.

 User Training:

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  New Knowledge/Skills: Developed skills in creating training materials, conducting
effective training sessions, and providing user support.
 Level of Accomplishment: Successfully trained staff on various software
applications, enhancing their productivity and proficiency.

2.3 Relationship with Other Staff

Building and maintaining positive relationships with other staff members was crucial for a
productive and enjoyable attachment experience. I:

 Communication: Regularly communicated with colleagues to understand their IT needs

and provide appropriate support.
 Collaboration: Worked closely with team members on projects, fostering a collaborative
environment.
 Professionalism: Maintained a professional demeanor, showing respect and courtesy to
all staff members.
 Networking: Established connections with various departments, enhancing my
understanding of how IT supports overall county operations.

2.4 Things Enjoyed Most and Why

 Hands-On Experience: Gaining practical experience in IT tasks, which reinforced my

theoretical knowledge.
 Problem-Solving: Enjoyed the challenge of troubleshooting and resolving technical
issues, which provided a sense of accomplishment.
 Learning Opportunities: Appreciated the continuous learning environment, with
opportunities to acquire new skills and knowledge.
 Team Collaboration: Enjoyed working with a supportive and knowledgeable team,
which enhanced my learning experience.

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2.5 Things Enjoyed Least and Why

 Repetitive Tasks: Some tasks, such as routine maintenance, could be repetitive and less
engaging.
 Limited Autonomy: At times, there was limited autonomy in decision-making, as most
decisions required approval from senior staff.
 Resource Constraints: Occasionally faced constraints in resources, such as outdated
equipment, which could hinder efficiency.

2.6 Challenges Experienced and How Handled

 Technical Challenges: Encountered complex technical issues that required advanced

troubleshooting skills. Handled by: Seeking guidance from senior staff, researching
solutions, and applying learned techniques.
 Time Management: Balancing multiple tasks and deadlines was challenging. Handled
by: Prioritizing tasks, creating a schedule, and adhering to deadlines.
 Resource Constraints: Dealing with limited or outdated resources. Handled by:
Innovatively using available resources and suggesting improvements to the management.

2.7 Major Benefits Derived from the Industrial Attachment Program

 Practical Experience: Gained hands-on experience in various ICT tasks, bridging the
gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
 Skill Development: Developed a wide range of technical skills, including
troubleshooting, network management, and software development.
 Professional Growth: Learned important professional skills such as communication,
responsibility, and time management.
 Networking: Built valuable relationships with professionals in the field, providing
opportunities for future career growth.
 Career Readiness: The attachment experience has prepared me for future employment
by providing a realistic understanding of workplace expectations and challenges.

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The industrial attachment at Makueni County Government has been an enriching experience,
contributing significantly to my personal and professional development in the field of
Information Technology.

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CHAPTER THREE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclusion

The industrial attachment at Makueni County Government has provided a comprehensive and
valuable learning experience, significantly to my professional and personal growth. The skills
and competencies acquired during this period have prepared me for future career opportunities in
Information Technology and other related fields. The interaction with various individuals and
departments has enriched my understanding of the professional world, and I am confident in my
ability to apply these skills effectively in any future endeavors. The program allowed for
practical application of academic knowledge, offering exposure to real-world IT challenges and
solutions.

Major Strengths:

 Practical Experience: Provided hands-on experience in various IT tasks, bridging the

gap between theory and practice.
 Skill Development: Enabled the development of a broad range of technical and
professional skills, including troubleshooting, network management, and effective
communication.
 Professional Growth: Fostered professional skills such as responsibility, time
management, and adaptability.
 Supportive Environment: Benefitted from a supportive team and collaborative work
environment, which facilitated learning and skill development.

Major Weaknesses:

 Repetitive Tasks: Encountered repetitive tasks that sometimes lacked engagement.

 Limited Autonomy: Experienced limited decision-making autonomy, with most
decisions requiring approval from senior staff.
 Resource Constraints: Faced challenges with outdated or limited resources, which
occasionally impacted efficiency.

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Recommendations

a) For Improving the Industrial Attachment Program at MUST:

1. Structured Program: Develop a more structured attachment program with clearly

defined objectives, roles, and responsibilities to enhance the learning experience.
2. Diverse Exposure: Ensure that students are exposed to a variety of tasks and projects to
broaden their skill set and keep them engaged.
3. Feedback Mechanism: Implement a feedback mechanism for students to share their
experiences and suggestions for improvement, fostering continuous program
enhancement.
4. Mentorship Opportunities: Provide mentorship opportunities for students to receive
guidance and support from experienced professionals in their field.

b) For Improvement of Service Delivery in the Industry:

1. Resource Upgrades: Invest in upgrading outdated IT resources and equipment to

improve efficiency and support modern technological needs.
2. Enhanced Training: Offer continuous training and professional development for staff to
keep them updated on the latest technology trends and best practices.
3. Autonomy in Decision-Making: Empower attachment students and junior staff with
more decision-making autonomy to foster independence and innovation.
4. Regular Program Evaluation: Conduct regular evaluations of the industrial attachment
program to identify areas for improvement and ensure it aligns with current industry
standards and needs.

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References

Our functions & Mandate. (n.d.). Government of Makueni County. Retrieved July 31, 2024,
from https://makueni.go.ke/our-directorates/

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Appendices
Organizational structure:

Workbook(logbook)

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