The new dual Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) model has been hailed by stakeholders as a transformative approach to bridging the skills gap and enhancing food security in Kenya.
Speaking during a sensitisation forum for institutions in the Mt Kenya East and West regions, National Chair of the Kenya National Training Institution and Chief Principal of Nyeri National Polytechnic, Dr David Mwangi, emphasised the importance of the dual training model, which integrates classroom-based theoretical learning with hands-on industry experience.
“We are here as institutions for the sensitisation of the dual TVET model under the Competency Based Education and Training (CBET) approach. The model ensures that 50 per cent of the training occurs in TVET institutions and 50 per cent within industry.
Over 20 institutions are represented here, and we are urging stakeholders to offer placement slots for students ahead of their industrial training scheduled to start in January,” Dr Mwangi said.
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Dr. Mwangi praised the Ministry of Education, particularly Principal Secretary Dr. Esther Muoria and Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, for championing the implementation of the model.
According to stakeholders, the dual TVET approach aims to make vocational training more relevant and market-driven by aligning the curriculum with industry needs.
“For the first time, we have a curriculum developed in collaboration with industry players. Assessment will also take place both in institutions and the workplace. This will produce competent, job-ready graduates,” added Dr. Mwangi.
The model has also been linked to solving food insecurity by encouraging youth participation in agriculture.
“Farming used to be a reserve for the elderly. But with academic and industrial collaboration, youth trained under dual TVET will become passionate about modern agriculture, increasing productivity and food security,” noted the National Government’s County Director for Meru and Isiolo, Muhammed Hassan.
David Ralama from an agricultural dairy farm echoed the sentiment, highlighting that new technologies such as centre pivot irrigation and machine-based dairy operations require upskilled labour.
“Trainees must be equipped to handle modern equipment. These are the skill gaps we aim to close through this model,” he said.
Stakeholders say the new system also addresses the reluctance of youth to commit to long-term training programs.
“We have broken training into three-month modules where learners can be certified based on their level of competence. Youths no longer have to stay in school for years to get certified,” Dr. Mwangi said.
In addition, Dr. Mwangi lauded the government’s initiative to recognise and certify informal skills through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
“If you have a skill, go to your nearest TVET institution. If you can prove it, you will be assessed and certified. The fee has been significantly reduced from KSh 30,000 to KSh 1,500 or KSh 3,000 depending on the institution,” said Dr Mwangi.
Njoki from Mt. Kenya Dairy Milk noted that the model will reduce the number of questions asked to new graduates about their years of experience.
“With dual training, learners gain practical skills and industry experience, making them immediately employable. Universities should emulate this model,” Njoki said.
Jane Ngunjiri, representing the coffee sector, emphasised the holistic nature of the dual model.
“It equips learners with theory, practical skills, and the right mindset. This will improve productivity, boost the economy, and empower communities. These trained students will go on to train others,” said Ngunjiri.
While optimistic, stakeholders acknowledged initial resistance to the new system.
“Like all new programs, it faces acceptance issues. We need continuous induction of implementers to broaden understanding,” Hassan said.
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