Kisumu: At least 12,000 trainees across the country have already gone through the dual Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme, signalling growing momentum in efforts to align technical education with industry needs. The dual training model allows trainees to split their time between classroom instruction and practical training in industry, ensuring graduates acquire hands-on skills required in the job market.
According to Kenya News Agency, the programme is implemented through partnerships between training institutions and companies and has so far attracted about 3,700 industries nationwide, as reported by TVET officials. Regional TVET Director for Kisumu and Siaya, Audrey Monica, highlighted that the initiative is steadily transforming skills training by exposing trainees to real workplace environments while still in school. She spoke in Kisumu during the Western Region Dual TVET Week at Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology, where institutions and companies showcased technical programmes and innovations to students, industry players, and education stakeholders.
Monica emphasized the commitment to producing a skilled workforce that is relevant locally, nationally, and internationally. She noted that the growing involvement of industry players has strengthened the programme, benefiting companies directly by reducing labor costs and shaping trainees' skills. Monica added that the programme supports the government's Kazi Majuu initiative by producing technically competent graduates capable of competing in the international labor market.
The Western Region Dual TVET Week also attracted junior and senior secondary school learners, offering them an opportunity to explore technical career pathways before making education choices. Monica stated that early exposure to technical fields helps learners make informed decisions and avoid mistakes associated with choosing unsuitable courses. Participants at the event toured exhibitions showcasing programmes in various disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, building and civil engineering, plumbing, ICT, cosmetology, hairdressing, and food and beverage.
Shamberere National Polytechnic Principal Dr. Elisha Nyamu mentioned that the collaboration between TVET institutions and industry partners had helped bridge long-standing gaps between training and labor market requirements. He noted that the partnership has equipped trainees with requisite skills, making them industry-ready and enabling a growing number of students to secure employment opportunities even before completing their studies.
Easter Ndichu, Senior Project Manager of Vocational Training Services at AHK Eastern Africa, stated that the dual TVET concept, introduced in Kenya in 2019, had proven effective but required greater awareness among stakeholders. Ndichu explained that the initiative was inspired by Germany's dual training model and is designed to strengthen collaboration between training institutions and industry. She stressed the need to create more traction and awareness around the dual TVET model to ensure its success.
The Western Region Dual TVET Week is the second such event in the country, following the inaugural edition held earlier in Nairobi and Kiambu counties, as stakeholders seek to expand industry linkages and strengthen Kenya's technical workforce pipeline.