• Welcome to Umoja National Polyethnic

    Umoja National Polytechnic is a technical and vocational training institution that provides practical and professional education to students in different technical fields. The college focuses on equipping learners with hands-on skills, technical knowledge, and professional competence required in the job market.

    The Building and Construction department trains students in areas such as building technology, construction materials, drawing, site management, and masonry. The course combines theoretical classroom learning and practical workshop training to prepare students for careers in the construction industry.

    Graduates are able to work in construction companies, engineering firms, building sites, or start their own businesses in the building sector.

    Vision

    To become a leading institution in technical and vocational education by producing skilled professionals who contribute to national and global development.

    (Technical institutions in Kenya aim to be global leaders in TVET training and innovation.)

     Mission

    To provide quality technical and vocational training that equips students with practical skills, innovation, and knowledge needed in the modern workforce.

     Key Features of the College

    Some important features of Umoja National Polytechnic include:

    1. Practical Skills Training – Students gain hands-on experience in workshops and laboratories.

    2. Qualified Trainers – The institution employs experienced instructors in technical fields.

    3. Modern Training Facilities – Workshops and tools used for practical training in construction and engineering.

    4. Industry-Relevant Courses – Programs designed to meet the needs of the job market.

    5. Competency-Based Training – Students learn practical skills that prepare them for employment or self-employment.

    6. Supportive Learning Environment – The college encourages innovation, teamwork, and professional growth.

    Courses Offered

    Umoja National Polytechnic offers several technical and professional courses such as:

    Engineering and Construction

    • Building and Construction Technology

    • Masonry

    • Plumbing

    • Electrical Installation

    • Civil Engineering Technology

    ICT and Business

    • Information Communication Technology (ICT)

    • Computer Studies

    • Business Management

    • Accounting

    Hospitality and Other Skills

    • Catering and Hospitality Management

    • Fashion Design and Tailoring

    • Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy

    These programs are usually offered at Artisan, Certificate, and Diploma levels.

     Why Choose Umoja College

    Students choose Umoja National Polytechnic because:

    1. Practical and marketable skills for employment or self-employment.

    2. Affordable technical education compared to many universities.

    3. Industry-focused training relevant to construction and engineering careers.

    4. Opportunities for career growth in technical fields.

    5. Supportive environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.

Available courses

Construction materials

Unit Title: Construction Materials

Unit Code: [Varies by Institution]

Unit Overview:

This unit introduces students to the fundamental materials used in the construction industry. It covers the types, properties, selection criteria, and applications of building materials, providing a foundation for practical construction work and structural design. Emphasis is placed on understanding how materials influence the quality, durability, and sustainability of buildings.

Unit Objectives:

By the end of this unit, students should be able to:

Identify common construction materials and their properties.

Understand the methods of testing and quality assessment of materials.

Evaluate the suitability of materials for different building components.

Understand the impact of environmental and economic factors on material selection.

Apply knowledge of materials in practical construction projects.

Content/Topics Covered:

Introduction to Construction Materials:

Definition and importance in construction.

Classification: natural, artificial, and composite materials.

Properties of Materials:

Physical properties: density, porosity, thermal conductivity, water absorption.

Mechanical properties: strength, elasticity, plasticity, toughness, hardness.

Chemical properties: corrosion resistance, durability.

Common Building Materials:

Stone: types, properties, uses.

Bricks and Blocks: clay bricks, concrete blocks, AAC blocks.

Cement and Lime: types, composition, setting, and curing.

Aggregates: fine and coarse, grading, and quality tests.

Timber/Wood: types, seasoning, preservation, and applications.

Metals: steel, aluminum, iron – properties and uses.

Plastics and Polymers: applications in construction.

Glass: types and building applications.

Material Testing and Quality Control:

Standard tests for strength, durability, and moisture content.

Importance of quality assurance in construction projects.

Sustainable and Modern Materials:

Eco-friendly materials and innovations in construction.

Recycled and alternative materials.

Selection and Application of Materials:

Factors influencing material choice: cost, availability, function, aesthetics.

Case studies of material application in various building components (foundations, walls, roofs, finishes).

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of material types and properties.

Conduct basic material tests and interpret results.

Make informed decisions on material selection for construction projects.

Apply safety, environmental, and economic considerations in material use.