💰 Accessing APBET-Style Funding & Barista Mtaani Enrollment
You asked about the APBET funding process and the enrollment process for the Kenya Coffee School’s (KCS) Barista Mtaani program.
- APBET Funding Process for Skills Training
The term APBET (Alternative Provision of Basic Education and Training) primarily refers to the government’s efforts to regulate and fund non-formal or low-cost basic schools in informal settlements. While the Kenya Coffee School (KCS) is supporting the spirit of using public funds to bridge the skills gap, direct application for APBET funds is typically for primary and secondary education institutions.
Skills training organizations like KCS/Barista Mtaani usually seek funding through related government initiatives and local funds that support youth development:
- Registration: To qualify for any government support, the training institution (or its relevant program) must be registered and accredited by the appropriate body, such as the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) for skills training. APBET institutions must be registered with the County Education Board (CEB).
- The Funding Path: Instead of direct APBET funds, skills programs often access funding through mechanisms like:
- National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NGCDF): Training institutions can lobby local Members of Parliament (MPs) or work with the NGCDF Committee to secure bursaries for local youth to enroll in their courses.
- State Department for Youth Affairs: Programs like the NYOTA Project (National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement) are government initiatives aimed at boosting youth employment through apprenticeships and business support, making them strategic partners for KCS.
- Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF) or Uwezo Fund: These funds provide loans and business development services to youth and women entrepreneurs, which Barista Mtaani graduates can access to start their coffee businesses.
The Application (for the institution): An organization like KCS/Barista Mtaani must follow the established guidelines for the specific fund (e.g., NGCDF, a County Government’s youth fund) which typically involves: - Meeting eligibility criteria and showing proof of accreditation.
- Submitting a formal proposal detailing the curriculum, expected outcomes, cost breakdown, and community impact.
- Receiving approval from the relevant Constituency or County Committee.
- Enrollment in Barista Mtaani Program ☕
Barista Mtaani offers accessible, subsidized, and hands-on training aimed at youth empowerment.
Requirements & Eligibility
While KCS proper offers full-cost diplomas, the Barista Mtaani initiative focuses on vulnerable youth with a primary goal of creating immediate employment and micro-enterprises.
- Age: Typically targets youth in the 18 to 35-year range.
- Education: A desire to learn and participate; formal educational prerequisites are often flexible due to the program’s grassroots focus.
- Commitment: Must be available for the full duration of the training program.
Enrollment Process
Enrollment is straightforward, often utilizing digital and local access points: - Choose a Program: Select the desired level based on your goals and availability:
- 2-Day: Basic espresso and essential hygiene.
- 5-Day: Intermediate skills, customer service, and cafe operations.
- 21-Day (Maestro): Advanced skills, roasting fundamentals, and financial literacy for entrepreneurship.
- Locate a Training Hub: Barista Mtaani runs ongoing training at its main hubs in Thika Town and Ridgeways, Nairobi, and also conducts pop-up sessions in various counties.
- Apply Online: The easiest way to apply is to visit the Kenya Coffee School or Barista Mtaani website and fill out the online enrollment form. You will typically be asked for your contact information, intended start date, and preferred training level.
- Confirmation & Payment: You will receive a response regarding your application and instructions for paying the required, usually subsidized, booking or course fee.
💡 Note: Barista Mtaani often operates a “half-funded scholarship” model, meaning the course fee is significantly lower than the standard KCS rate, reflecting the social impact mission.