MURANG’A — Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has announced the implementation of the Dual Training System in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions as a strategic move to mitigate poverty and narrow the skills gap among Kenyan youth.
According to Kenya News Agency, this innovative approach aligns with the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) model, emphasizing the integration of practical skills and industry knowledge into the curriculum, alongside traditional theoretical instruction.
The announcement came during the 5th Graduation ceremony of Michuki Technical Training Institute in Murang’a County, where a total of 1673 graduates were awarded diplomas and certificates across various disciplines. The event, which took place on Friday, saw State Department for TVET Principal Secretary Esther Muoria delivering Machogu’s speech on his behalf, highlighting the importance of the dual training system in equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in the job market.
Machogu outlined the government’s commitment to reforming the TVET sector through the CBET framework, aiming to address unemployment and bridge the skills gap among the youth. By fostering partnerships with industries, the government plans to ensure that students spend 50 to 70 percent of their training time within the industry, gaining practical experience and exposure.
The initiative seeks to provide youth with apprenticeships and internships, enabling them to acquire hands-on skills, understand work conditions, and benefit from mentorship by qualified professionals. Machogu emphasized the critical role of TVET in driving innovation, scientific and technological advancements, and overall economic growth, stating that the sector is pivotal in creating equitable education opportunities for all youth, regardless of background.
Graduates were encouraged to leverage their education in fostering innovation and creating employment opportunities, marking their graduation as the beginning of a journey to apply their acquired skills in contributing to national development. Dr. Muoria echoed the benefits of the dual training system, noting its effectiveness in equipping trainees with practical skills and industry exposure, thereby revolutionizing the TVET sector and enhancing the young workforce’s productivity.
The department has reportedly received numerous requests from countries with aging populations for skilled young workers, prompting the creation of an industrial liaison database to facilitate job placements for graduates. The institute’s strategic plan for 2023-2027 aims to bridge the academic and practical skills gap, with Chief Principal Anne Mbogo highlighting the institution’s commitment to the CBET curriculum and the dual training system’s role in enhancing employability.
The institute has seen a significant increase in student enrollment, attributed to government support and dedication to implementing strategic initiatives, underscoring the institution’s long-standing reputation for producing skilled graduates who contribute significantly to various sectors in the country.