PS Muoria rallies TVETs to strengthen practical training, emphasises discipline among trainees

The Principal Secretary in the State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Dr. Esther Muoria, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Competency-Based Training (CBET) following an extensive inspection tour of Limuru Technical and Vocational College in Kiambu County.

The visit, which lasted nearly five hours, included a spot check of Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) assessments, where the PS evaluated trainees’ practical performance across multiple disciplines.

She interacted with staff, trainees, the institution’s Board of Management, and local stakeholders while assessing the college’s progress, quality of training, and infrastructural gaps.

Speaking during the tour, Muoria emphasised the importance of discipline, excellence, and commitment among trainees as the country seeks to build a highly skilled workforce.

“As we implement CBET, it is critical that our trainees demonstrate competence, professionalism, and practical expertise. These are the qualities that will enable them to thrive in today’s dynamic labour market,” she said.

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The PS inspected key departments including Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Hospitality and Tourism; Mechanical and Automotive Engineering; Computer Science and ICT; Welding and Fabrication; Catering and Hospitality; Plumbing; Carpentry and Building Technology; as well as Fashion Design and Dressmaking.

She expressed satisfaction with the level of hands-on skills demonstrated by trainees during practical sessions.

“It is encouraging to see trainees confidently applying what they have learned through hands-on training. This is a clear indication that our shift towards competency-based training is bearing fruit,” Muoria noted.

Reiterating the need to prioritize practical skills over theoretical instruction, she revealed that the State Department for TVET is in the process of developing an enhanced curriculum to further strengthen applied learning.

“Technical education must go beyond theory. We are formulating an improved curriculum that will deepen practical training and ensure our graduates are industry-ready and globally competitive,” she added.

Muoria also commended the institution’s leadership for establishing Income Generating Activities (IGAs) across various departments, noting that such initiatives are key to enhancing sustainability and providing trainees with entrepreneurial exposure.

“I commend the leadership of this institution for embracing innovative strategies such as IGAs. These initiatives not only support the college financially but also expose trainees to real business environments,” she said.

She further underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships between training institutions and industry players to ensure that training remains relevant to labour market demands.

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“Deepening institutional and industry partnerships will be critical in expanding opportunities for practical training and ensuring that our trainees acquire skills that are aligned with evolving industry needs,” she added.

Area Member of Parliament John Kiragu Chege, who was represented during the visit, welcomed the PS and lauded the government’s continued support for technical education.

“I sincerely thank PS Esther Muoria for taking the time to visit Limuru Technical and Vocational College and personally assess its progress. Her presence demonstrates the government’s dedication to strengthening institutions that play a critical role in empowering our youth,” said Chege.

He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to supporting the institution and collaborating with the State Department for TVET.

“We remain committed to working closely with the Ministry to ensure this institution continues to serve the people of Limuru and the nation by equipping trainees with practical skills that promote self-reliance, innovation, and quality workmanship,” he added.

By Our reporter