Principal Secretary for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Dr. Esther Muoria, has underscored the government’s determination to transform Kenya’s skills development sector through sweeping reforms spearheaded under President William Ruto’s administration.
Speaking during an interview on KBC Channel 1, Dr. Muoria highlighted ongoing efforts to reposition TVET institutions as a key driver of national development, noting that the reforms are already reshaping the country’s socio-economic landscape.
“When I assumed office, we agreed with the technical team that TVET must be a space where we truly transform young lives,” she said. “This vision is being realized.”
Dr. Muoria credited President Ruto’s longstanding commitment to vocational education, noting that his initiative to establish a TVET institution in every constituency has led to the operationalization of colleges in 240 out of 290 constituencies. The remaining institutions are in various stages of implementation.
A major milestone in the reform agenda is the full adoption of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) since September 2023. Unlike traditional theory-heavy curricula, CBET emphasizes practical skills and industry readiness. “Our aim is to produce graduates who don’t need to be retrained by employers,” said Muoria.
To further strengthen the skills-to-industry pipeline, Kenya has adopted a dual training model modeled on Germany’s successful 50-50 approach, where trainees split their time between classrooms and industry placements. “These learners are absorbed directly by employers. It’s working,” she stated.
Recognizing the importance of Kenya’s informal economy, the government has rolled out the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy, which certifies practical skills acquired outside formal education systems. A new directorate based at Kabete National Polytechnic will oversee its implementation. “We’re acknowledging the skilled hands that have long sustained our economy,” Muoria said.
The reforms appear to be gaining traction among the public. Student enrollment in TVET institutions has more than doubled, from 300,000 to over 700,000, under Dr. Muoria’s leadership. This year alone, over 10,000 students who qualified for university opted for TVET programs instead.
“To the youth of Kenya: with a skill, you will never go hungry,” Dr. Muoria emphasized. “We are here to equip you for employment or entrepreneurship, at home and abroad.”
She concluded by expressing strong confidence in the administration’s development blueprint. “We’re on a path to transformation. Skills are the foundation, just like in South Korea, Germany, and other developed economies.”
Written By Rodney Mbua