The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) has come out strongly in support of Brian Mwenda Njagi, a young Kenyan who is making headlines for practicing law without traditional qualifications.
In a letter addressed to the public, COTU has resolutely endorsed the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) principle, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing knowledge, skills, and competencies acquired through unconventional learning paths.
This impassioned plea raises significant concerns regarding the accessibility and inclusivity of professions in Kenya.
Brian Njagi’s is reported to have earned his bread in the corridors of justice as an advocate, interestingly winning all the 26 cases that he appeared for clients.
However, he has no legal background as he is alleged to be a graduate of criminology, raising a furore on social media that has inclined to judge him as a fraud.
And yet the education ministry through the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) has been campaigning to have RPL mainstreamed in the education matrix.
His case has ignited a nationwide discussion about the conventional prerequisites for pursuing a career in law, and it beckons the question as to whether his demonstrated skills and competencies should be subjected to a fair and transparent examination to validate his expertise.
COTU maintains that Kenya is home to a wealth of highly skilled and talented youth who have honed their proficiency through practical experience, self-study, and non-formal educational avenues.
Regrettably, these individuals, despite their remarkable abilities, often find themselves marginalized in the formal sector, which traditionally prioritizes qualifications from established educational channels.
As the seasoned labour leader asserts, Mwenda’s situation is far from unique. Many accomplished professionals in various fields, including engineers, accountants, teachers, information technology experts, cyber security providers, social workers, creatives, and more, have garnered expertise in their respective domains without the conventional paper qualifications.
While some persevere through formal education to reinforce what they already know, the majority face discrimination and exclusion from opportunities.
COTU is now making a fervent call upon the government to seize this moment and implement the RPL in the country.
It argues that RPL, a proven mechanism for acknowledging the diverse learning pathways of citizens, holds the potential to tap into the vast pool of untapped talents that can propel the nation toward progress.
COTU extends a supportive hand to Brian Njagi, assuring him that it is ready and available to help him realize his dreams.
This hearty letter from COTU underscores the pressing need for reforms to recognize skills and competencies acquired informally, shedding light on the larger issue of inclusivity in professions throughout Kenya.
By Viola Chepkemoi
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