Government upgrading TVETs for job market readiness, Mudavadi

The government is upgrading and modernizing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to enhance their capability and relevance in responding to manpower needs in the country.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said TVETS must build skilled, adaptable and innovative workforce ready to meet the demands of the industries and job market.

He said the government is in the process of undertaking progressive reforms in realizing the productivity of TVETS.

“As part of the reforms, the Cabinet approved the dual training policy, which formalizes integration of theoretical learning and hands-on training in industries,” he said.

“This historic decision is a game changer since it will ensure that trainees, who have been constrained by skills mismatch with the needs of our industries, can now graduate with cutting edge skills for entrepreneurship or local and international labor markets,” he added.

He said policies and programs are being rolled out to grow and develop the TVET sector, to produce skills that will support Kenya’s priority sectors and enhance its global competitiveness.

Mudavadi was speaking when he presided over the 1st graduation ceremony for Kaiboi National Polytechnic in Nandi.

He said the reforms focus on enhancing the quality of education and training, improving access to TVET programs, and ensuring that what is taught in these institutions directly addresses the needs of the labour market.

Mudavadi said the government has also set up a policy framework that will enable the TVET institutions to fully implement the robust Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum that was rolled out in September 2023.

The training focuses on practical skills and outcomes that ensure TVET trainees are knowledgeable and highly skilled in the areas most needed by industries.

“The Government has further made substantial investments in upgrading of TVET institutions’ infrastructure, including providing modern equipment and learning tools. It has also enhanced investments in the training and development of TVET instructors, particularly in new technologies and methodologies.” said Mudavadi.

“We have recently recruited 2,000 trainers to bridge the trainer deficit in the TVET sector, while enhancement of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework has formalized the competencies of artisans who have gained skills through work experience or informal learning.” he added.

Mudavadi appreciated the significant strides made in reforming the TVET sector to ensure it is aligned with global trends, industry standards and the needs of the global growing workforce.

Mudavadi, also the cabinet secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, further reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to enhance the contribution of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector to economic and social development.

The first graduation ceremony of Kaiboi National Polytechnic since it was upgraded from a technical training institute last year saw the first 1,614 graduands celebrate with various accomplishments in artisan, craft and diploma categories.

“We recognize you for your hard work, dedication and achievements. Your graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of new, exciting opportunities ahead that will shape your future.” landed Mudavadi.

Mudavadi also challenged the management of the institution led by Principal Tiony Abdi, to remain focused as they have a great opportunity to position the institution in Kenya’s socioeconomic transformation journey by developing mutually beneficial linkages with the local community and the industries.