Kenya and China have launched the China-Kenya Craftsman Academy at the Technical University of Kenya, a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training.
Speaking during the unveiling of the programme, Education CS Julius Ogamba hailed the academy as a critical step in strengthening Kenya-China education collaborations.
“This launch is a continuation of a fruitful partnership that has not only advanced capacity-building, but also provided our students with international exposure and access to modern technologies,” the CS said.
Additionally, Ogamba highlighted the success of the Africa Tech Challenge, which has trained over 700 participants from nine countries, and praised the academy as a symbol of Kenya’s growing commitment to industrial skills development.
Wang Lixia, the chairperson of the People’s Government of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, echoed the significance of the partnership, stating that the academy exemplifies China’s dedication to vocational cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
“This marks both a new beginning and a major milestone in our partnership. Inner Mongolia is ready to work closely with our Kenyan counterparts to share China's vocational education successes and build a shared future through skills,” she said.
Tvet Principal Secretary Esther Muoria said the academy aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at modernising Kenya’s technical training.
“We have rolled-out 194 modular curricula across the country, adopted dual training models, and partnered with over 2,500 industries,” said Muoria, adding that this collaboration will further provide the Kenyan youth with globally competitive skills.
“Let this academy be a symbol of what can be achieved when nations unite in pursuit of skills, innovation and shared prosperity.”
Technical University of Kenya Vice Chancellor Prof Benedict Mutua, expressed pride in hosting the academy.
“This facility is more than infrastructure, it is a beacon of innovation, partnership and practical learning,” said the VC, stressing that TUK is committed to producing graduates who are not only job-ready, but also capable of designing and exporting technology.
Wang Junwei, Party Secretary of Inner Mongolia Technical College of Mechanics and Electronics, underscored the depth of cooperation, revealing that the partnership has led to the establishment of several vocational training centers in Africa and the training of over 1,500 instructors.
“Through 16 years of collaboration, we have built Africa’s largest eCNC Streaming Centre and developed over 400 bilingual teaching resources across five key technical areas,” he disclosed.
The Craftsman Academy aims to serve as a hub for hands-on training, cultural exchange, and industry-academic integration, particularly in fields such as equipment manufacturing and renewable energy.
It also underscores a shared vision to equip young people with market-driven skills, strengthen the link between education and industry, and promote inclusive economic development.
Positioned as a regional centre of excellence, the Academy is expected to enhance cross-border knowledge exchange, foster innovation, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of a skilled and competitive workforce across Africa.
