Stakeholders in education sector root for industry-led training

The government has renewed its commitment to offer hands-on training to trainers in technical vocational education training institutions across the country.

Through a partnership with the private sector, the German and Finland governments, the state has embarked on dual TVET, an initiative aimed at linking industries with training institutions to offer learners hands-on experience necessary to fit in the modern job market.

Speaking during a 3-day national TVET Conference in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Education Ezakiel Mochogu noted the importance of TVETs in the future of Kenya’s labor market.

He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to working with the institutions, the private sector, and the donor community to realize hands-on training.

“We are going to equip the institutions with an additional 2000 trainers with better working terms necessary in boosting morale, the terms will be much better in the coming days,” he said.

“The ministry has also recruited dedicated personnel in each TVET institution to act as a linkage between the institutions and the industries, this will ensure that trainees acquire practical skills besides the theory,” he added.

Deputy German Ambassador to Kenya Alexander Fierley noted that each year one million young Kenyans enter the labor market, the majority of whom lack the hands-on experience to meet the evolving work environment.

“These bright and eager minds hold immense potential, but they require the necessary skills and training to excel in an ever-evolving world. The responsibility for equipping young individuals with the essential skills they need to thrive, addressing youth unemployment, and ensuring socio-economic stability within the nation lies primarily with the education sector, notably TVET," he said.

"However, it is equally vital for companies and business membership organizations to play their role in the skill development of the country's youth. They should collaborate closely with the TVET sector, both at the organizational level and on a broader scale,” he said.

“Only by shaping TVET in partnership can we collectively cultivate a competitive and employable workforce. This effort is not just a responsibility but also a vital interest for both companies and the nation as a whole.”