Prove your practical garment-making skill with a nationally recognised NITA Trade Test.
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Level | Trade Test (Artisan) |
| Examining Body | NITA |
Course Overview
The NITA Trade Test in Fashion Design and Garment Making is a focused, six-month practical programme for learners who want a fast, skills-first route into the garment industry, certified by Kenya’s National Industrial Training Authority (NITA). It is ideal for those who already have some tailoring experience and want to formalise it, as well as beginners looking for hands-on, intensive training.
At Delight Technical College, this course emphasises hands-on garment construction practice, preparing learners specifically for NITA’s practical trade testing standards, which are widely recognised by employers across Kenya’s garment manufacturing and tailoring sector.
Why Choose This Course?
- A NITA-certified qualification, widely recognised by garment manufacturers and employers
- Practical, skills-first approach with minimal classroom theory
- Six-month format suited to learners who want to enter the workforce quickly
- Ideal for both beginners and those formalising existing experience
- Flexible study modes to fit around work or other commitments
Learning Outcomes
- Operate industrial sewing machines to a NITA-assessed standard
- Cut and construct a range of garments accurately and efficiently
- Apply consistent, professional finishing techniques
- Take accurate measurements and interpret basic patterns
- Meet the practical performance standards required for NITA trade certification
Course Modules (Detailed)
| Module / Unit | Hours | What You’ll Learn |
| Module: Machine Operation & Safety | core practical block | Safe, confident operation of industrial sewing machines and workshop equipment. |
| Module: Garment Cutting & Construction | core practical block | Cutting and constructing a range of garments to the accuracy and consistency required for trade certification. |
| Module: Finishing & Quality Standards | core practical block | Professional finishing techniques that meet NITA’s practical assessment standards. |
| Module: Trade Test Preparation | final assessment block | Focused practice and mock assessments to prepare learners for the NITA practical trade test. |
Practical Training
This programme is almost entirely hands-on. Learners spend the majority of their time at the sewing machine and cutting table, working toward the specific practical benchmarks assessed in the NITA Trade Test. Instructors run mock assessments throughout the course so learners walk into their official trade test with confidence.
Career Opportunities
- Certified machinist in a garment manufacturing company
- Self-employed tailor or dressmaker
- Alterations and repairs specialist
- Entry point into larger garment production and export businesses that require NITA-certified staff
Entry Requirements
KCPE or KCSE certificate of any grade. NITA Trade Test programmes are open to anyone with the passion and commitment to master a hands-on skill, regardless of academic background.
Documents Required at Application:
- A copy of your National ID, Passport, or Birth Certificate
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- A copy of your KCPE and/or KCSE result slip or certificate (where applicable)
Skills You’ll Gain
Industrial sewing machine operation • Garment cutting and construction • Professional finishing • Measurement-taking • Trade-test-standard quality and consistency
Certification
On successful completion of the NITA practical trade test, learners are awarded a NITA Trade Test Certificate in Fashion Design and Garment Making. A qualification widely recognised by garment manufacturers and employers across Kenya.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is a NITA Trade Test different from a TVET-CDACC course?
A: NITA Trade Tests are practical, skills-based assessments focused on hands-on competence, often preferred by manufacturing employers, while TVET-CDACC qualifications follow the broader Competency-Based Education and Training framework with more structured academic progression.
Q: Do I need experience to join?
A: No prior experience is required, though this course moves at a practical, skills-first pace suited to motivated beginners and those with some existing tailoring background.
Q: What is the entry requirement?
A: KCPE or KCSE certificate of any grade.
Q: Can I proceed to further studies after this?
A: Yes. Many learners use this qualification as a stepping stone into further TVET-CDACC fashion design studies at Delight.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Kenya’s creative and technical industries are actively hiring skilled, certified talent and Fashion Design and Garment Making (NITA Trade Test) at Delight Technical College is your fastest, most practical route to becoming one of them. With hands-on training, experienced tutors, flexible study modes, and a qualification recognised by NITA, you’ll graduate ready to work, freelance, or build your own business from day one.
Intake is currently in progress. Visit Delight Technical College on Muindi Mbingu Street, opposite Jevanjee Gardens, Nairobi, call or WhatsApp +254 722 533 771 / +254 724 566 088, email [email protected], or apply online at delight.ac.ke to secure your place on the Fashion Design and Garment Making (NITA Trade Test) programme today.