At the Principals’ Quarterly Meeting held at Eldoret National Polytechnic on March 6, 2025, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba, EBS, unveiled an inspiring roadmap for enhancing Kenya’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector.
The CS emphasized on the adoption of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET). While progress has been made, Ogamba called for greater industry participation in training and assessment, stressing the need to align graduates’ skills with labour market demands through stronger industry linkages.
He pointed out the critical role of TVET institutions in tackling youth unemployment and equipping the workforce with essential skills for Kenya’s economic growth. He commended TVET leaders for their dedication and emphasized their contribution to making Kenya globally competitive.
“The significance of TVET in national development cannot be overstated,” Ogamba said.
This event brought together dynamic TVET principals and senior ministry officials creating a vibrant platform to celebrate achievements, tackle challenges, and chart a bright future ahead.
“You are at the core of Kenya’s skills revolution, and your dedication is pivotal to the country’s economic transformation.”
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He also pointed out the importance of integrating technology into TVET programmes, focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR). In collaboration with organizations such as ILO, UNESCO, and GIZ, the Ministry is driving this digital transformation. He encouraged TVET institutions to embrace these advancements by virtualising programmes and equipping trainers with modern digital skills.
The CS applauded the growth in TVET enrollment, now reaching approximately 700,000 students. However, he asked principals to enhance outreach efforts to attract more learners, particularly from the 962,512 students who sat for the 2024 KCSE exams. He encouraged using the Kenya Universities and Colleges Placement Service (KUCCPS) portal to boost applications.
Sustainability was another key focus, with Ogamba commending the Ministry’s Green TVET initiative. This programme promotes tree planting, renewable energy adoption—including solar and biogas projects—and incorporating environmental conservation into curricula. The Ministry aims for at least 50 TVET institutions to implement clean energy solutions.
To address student accommodation challenges, Ogamba partnered with the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP) to provide safe, affordable housing for TVET trainees, improving their welfare and learning experience. He urged institutions to collaborate with the State Department for TVET to leverage this initiative.
The CS also highlighted Kenya’s commitment to preparing TVET graduates for the international job market. He said that 631 trainees had already secured seasonal employment in the UK, with opportunities expanding in Germany and Belgium. To further enhance employability abroad, he encouraged TVET institutions to incorporate foreign language training into their programmes.
By Joseph Mambili
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