A team of experts tasked with the responsibility to review a policy that will allow all students to progress from certificate to degree level is set to be inaugurated tomorrow (Monday) by Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu in Naivasha, Nakuru County.
According to a press release dated November 18, 2023, this 19-member committee is composed of experts from various educational institutions and bodies.
The initiative is aligned with the recommendations of the Presidential Working Party on Education Reform (PWPER), which identified Credit Accumulation and Transfer Systems (CATS) as crucial for educational reforms in Kenya.
The Committee, drawn from institutions such as the Kenya Nationals Qualification Authority (KNQA), Directorate of Quality Assurance, and University representatives, will focus on formulating the national policy on Kenya Credit Accumulation and Transfer (KCAT) systems.
This policy is a significant tool in contributing to lifelong learning and ensuring flexibility in educational pathways.
The move comes in response to the evolving economic landscape, with the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) prompting a revision and realignment of the policy to address emerging changes.
The KNQA, mandated by the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF) Act, is at the forefront of facilitating linkages, credit transfers, and exemptions across all levels of learning.
The Adhoc Committee’s tasks include reviewing the KCAT system policy, developing standards and guidelines, and undertaking functions incidental to these tasks.
Dr. Alice Kande, the Acting Director General of KNQA, emphasized the critical nature of the process, expressing determination to complete it promptly to promote lifelong learning.
Dr. Kande highlighted that 49% would be capped for progression under KCATS, and the agency would collaborate with other institutions to prepare them for implementing the CATS system upon approval.
This development is a significant stride for the education sector, following the National Assembly Education Committee’s call to expedite the implementation of the presidential working party’s recommendations.
The committee report, presented to President William Ruto, emphasized the need for awareness creation on Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Accumulation and Transfer Systems.
Recommendations included developing a framework for linkages among Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to eliminate duplications and create centres of excellence.
President Ruto has directed the immediate implementation of these recommendations.
The ongoing review of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy, already submitted to the Education Ministry, is part of the comprehensive approach to education and training reforms.
Credit accumulation involves aggregating credits within defined programs, while credit transfer allows movement of credits vertically, diagonally, or horizontally, promoting lifelong learning and linking skill development to the labour market.
Dr. Kande emphasized the demand for mobility, necessitating addressing the compatibility, comparability, and transferability of qualifications within and beyond borders.
The Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) system, in line with UNESCO’s Addis Convention, emerges as a crucial tool for quantifying and validating qualifications.
Education Cabinet Secretary Machogu stressed the importance of robust linkages between TVET institutions and the industry, driving a responsive and effective education system benefiting both individuals and the broader economy.
Recognizing prior learning, certifying skills acquired through industry experience, is integral to this approach, reflecting a commitment to a dynamic and holistic education and training system.
Machogu outlined earnest efforts in implementing recommended reforms, including hiring and retooling trainers and shifting the curriculum from theory-based to practical-based training.
This proactive approach aims to create a seamless progression in education, valuing both prior learning and industry experiences.
By Our Reporter
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