By Teddla Peninah

On July 18, a section of university students paid a visit to MAS Intimates Kenya as part of an industry field trip designed to expose them to potential career paths in the textile and manufacturing industries. This visit was organized by the Placement and Career Services (PACS) department in collaboration with MAS Intimates Kenya, a subsidiary of the globally recognized MAS Holdings.

Founded in Sri Lanka in 1987 with just 24 machines, MAS Holdings has grown into a multinational apparel manufacturer, partnering with top global fashion brands such as Victoria’s Secret, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Savage x Fenty, and Vanity Fair. The Kenya facility, established in 2020, represents the company’s strategic expansion into Africa, providing employment, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainability in the region.

The visit provided a hands-on learning experience where students were taken through the entire production process — from design and fabric cutting to assembly and quality control. They gained firsthand insight into how high-end fashion garments are brought to life with precision, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability.

Notably, students interacted with a USIU-Africa alumna who is both a full-time employee and a final-year student undertaking her internship at MAS Intimates Kenya. She shared her experience transitioning from student life to the professional world, offering relatable guidance and emphasizing the importance of internships in securing long-term career opportunities.

The trip not only enhanced students’ understanding of textile innovation and sustainable manufacturing but also gave them exposure to Kenya’s growing role in the global apparel sector. The firm’s welcoming culture and commitment to nurturing young talent were particularly evident, as MAS is currently hiring interns, intending to absorb them into full-time positions.

The experience left many students inspired to pursue careers in fashion technology, marketing, supply chain management, and industrial design, reaffirming the importance of industry-academia partnerships in preparing students for the job market.