Kenya continues to make significant strides in skills development with the launch of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Practitioners Level 2 Training at The Nairobi National Polytechnic. This pivotal event strengthens the country’s commitment to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the formal recognition of skills acquired in non-formal and informal settings, particularly within the vibrant Jua Kali sector.
The launch event was graced by Arch. Nyamai Wambua, CEO of the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations, who represented Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria, Principal Secretary, State Department for TVET. Dr. Glory Mutungi, Chief Principal of The Nairobi National Polytechnic, also officiated the ceremony.
“This training is about validating real-world experience and enabling skilled individuals to receive the certification they deserve,” said Arch. Wambua.
The RPL framework in Kenya allows individuals with prior learning—gained through work, life experience, or informal training—to be assessed and certified. The Level 2 training is designed to build the capacity of RPL practitioners, ensuring they can competently assess and recognize informal skills, especially in sectors like:
This initiative aligns with Kenya’s Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) strategy, which focuses on practical skills and measurable outcomes rather than time-based learning.
By expanding the pool of trained RPL practitioners, the program contributes to a more inclusive, accessible, and responsive TVET system. It empowers skilled individuals—many of whom have been excluded from formal employment or education due to a lack of certification—to gain nationally recognized qualifications.
The launch of the RPL Practitioners Level 2 Training at Nairobi National Polytechnic is not just a win for the education sector—it’s a major leap forward for Kenya’s informal workforce and national productivity.
Whether you're a policymaker, educator, or part of the Jua Kali sector, this initiative signals a brighter future where skills, not just certificates, open doors.
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