The Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) shows are evolving beyond their traditional role of showcasing livestock and farming tools to become practical learning hubs for students under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs.
Nakuru National Show chairman, Dr. Perminus Migwi said the shows offer a rare chance for learners to engage with real-world applications of classroom theory, ranging from sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation to digital innovation, value addition, and agri-business.
As the education system shifts to skills and competence, he said, CBC and TVET learners need practical exposure and that ASK shows provide this through exhibitions by government agencies, researchers, agritech and startups, offering hands-on demos, interactive displays, and real-time expert guidance.
He said the CBC curriculum is in top gear, now in Junior Secondary and next year will be Senior Secondary, it is expected of the teachers to take pupils to ASK shows to learn more that they could not get in classrooms but can be found there.
“What they have learnt in classroom is theory and should be complemented by experiential learning at the showgrounds. This is a one stop learning for CBC,” noted Dr Migwi during a media breakfast briefing and tour of various exhibition stands and plots across sectors.
The Nakuru ASK Show will run from Wednesday, July 2 to Sunday, July 6 at the Nakuru Showground, bringing together exhibitors and visitors for five days of innovation, agribusiness, trade, education, livestock displays, and family-friendly entertainment.
This year’s show, themed “Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth,” is expected to draw over 150 exhibitors and thousands of visitors from Nakuru, Kericho, Nyandarua, Baringo, Laikipia, Narok, Bomet, and beyond.
He said the government is prioritizing vocational training, and ASK shows provide a practical platform for learners to explore job opportunities aligned with their skills, connect with potential employers, and see firsthand how their training applies in real-world sectors.
“ASK shows are no longer just agricultural fairs, they’re turning into living classrooms and career hubs. We welcome schools, colleges, and even individual learners to use the platform to inspire innovation and practical skills, for national development,” he urged.
Dr. Migwi said the five-day event will feature cutting-edge technologies and emerging innovations, aligned with national goals to boost productivity and climate resilience. It remains one of the most important knowledge-sharing platforms for farmers, traders, and policy-makers across the Rift Valley and beyond.
The programme includes a series of pre-show activities, starting with an exhibitors’ briefing on June 20, followed by a pre-show on June 30. Trade stand judging will take place on July 1, ahead of the official business day and livestock judging on July 2. Farmers’ Day will be celebrated on July 3, with the official opening and Members’ Day slated for July 4. The event will wrap up with Family Days on July 5 and 6, promising entertainment and fun for all ages.
Beyond the exhibitions, visitors can enjoy live music, theatre performances, a military band, funfairs, and an amusement park, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment, culture, and learning experiences that cater to all age groups in a secure, festive and engaging atmosphere.
General admission is priced at KSh 300 for adults and KSh 250 for children. Special party rates apply to schools and farmers’ groups of 10 or more, with tickets priced at KSh 250 for adults and KSh 200 for children. Trade attendants will pay KSh 1,000, while an essential vehicle sticker goes for KSh 5,000. Membership badges are available at the Nakuru Branch Office.