PS Dr. Muoria Champions Industry-Driven TVET Training at Kabete National Polytechnic

by Stovia Carthy

2025-06-03 09:19:21.072718

In a significant move toward enhancing Kenya’s technical and vocational training landscape, the Principal Secretary for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Dr. Esther Muoria, reiterated the need for industry-aligned training during a press briefing held at Kabete National Polytechnic.

Dr. Muoria stressed the importance of training with the industry and for the industry, emphasizing that the goal is to produce competitive, job-ready graduates who meet the demands of a dynamic job market.

“We must move beyond training in isolation. We need to ensure our curriculum and training processes are aligned with the needs of industry, so our graduates can be absorbed directly into the workforce,” she said.

The briefing brought together key figures and stakeholders in the TVET and skills development ecosystem, including:

• Mr. Stanley Maindi, Director of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
• Dr. Patrick Muchemi, Principal, Kabete National Polytechnic
• Dr. Alice Kande, CEO, Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA)
• Arch. Wambua Nyamai, CEO, Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA)
• Mr. Kingsley, Representative, Affordable Housing Programme
• Principals from TVET institutions across the Nairobi region
• Other distinguished government officials

Strengthening Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The event placed a special spotlight on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as a vital mechanism for certifying informal skills — particularly for artisans and Jua Kali professionals. RPL is a cornerstone of efforts to formalize competencies and improve access to employment, entrepreneurship, and further training opportunities.

KNFJKA CEO Arch. Wambua Nyamai emphasized the Federation’s commitment to championing artisan empowerment through RPL and stronger industry-academic partnerships.

“By strengthening RPL, we validate and uplift skilled individuals within the informal sector — bringing them into the fold of formal employment and sustainable livelihoods,” Arch. Nyamai noted.

A Collaborative Approach for a Skilled Future

The presence of stakeholders from education, housing, and industry sectors underscored the cross-sector collaboration needed to enhance the quality and relevance of TVET in Kenya.

Dr. Alice Kande (KNQA) and Mr. Kingsley (Affordable Housing Programme) both spoke to the necessity of aligning national skills development goals with Kenya’s socio-economic priorities, including the ongoing Affordable Housing Initiative.

Conclusion

The press briefing at Kabete National Polytechnic marks a pivotal step in the journey toward industry-driven TVET reform in Kenya. With aligned partnerships, robust RPL frameworks, and shared accountability, the future of technical training in Kenya is poised to better serve learners, industries, and the nation’s economy.