By Amoto Ndiewo
The East African community and Ethiopia are set to introduce a joint curriculum on technical and vocational education.
Experts from the East African Community met from 28th September 2021 under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) to harmonize a curriculum for the region.
Principal Secretary state department for Vocational and Technical Training Margaret Mwakima revealed that the harmonisation qualification would lay a strong foundation for the development of harmonization Occupational Standards and Competence Certification System.
The harmonization team is spearheaded under East Africa Transformation Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP) which is to be funded the World Bank.
Mwakima stressed that the process is aimed at improving the quality of TVET Programmes amongst the member states.
‘’This will go a long way in improving regional integration and reducing the existing hurdles,’’ she said.
She added that the state Department for Vocational and Technical Training revealed that it would also avail independence in decision making.
‘The harmonization has the potential of addressing competence gaps and shortages to support economic development in the region.’’ noted Mwakima.
She also said that the regional TVET Qualification Framework was an investment that would see increased access and progression as well as a base for mutual trust.
Inter- University Council for East Africa Executive Secretary, Prof Gaspard Banyankimbona noted that the move was part of a project on enhancing regional collaboration in TVET.
He revealed that they prioritized in manufacturing, Agro –processing, energy, transport and infrastructure and Information Communication and Technology.
‘’The institution participating in the programme will enjoy lots of benefits,’’ concluded Prof Banyakimbona
