TVET colleges turn to industry partnerships to boost youth employability

The partnerships are expected to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and workplace requirements by exposing trainees to practical experience, emerging technologies and skills demanded by employers.

Speaking at the 15th Annual International Research Conference, Hackathon, Innovation Challenge and Expo 2026 at Eldoret National Polytechnic, Director of Technical and Vocational Education and Training Tom Otieno said the government was prioritising industry-led training to make graduates more competitive in the labour market.

Otieno urged Kenyans, including young people who had dropped out of school, to consider technical training as an alternative route to employable skills. He said growing interest in vocational education reflected a shift in attitudes, with technical courses increasingly recognised as pathways to professional development and economic empowerment.(Education News Kenya — https://educationnews.co.ke/news/tvet-colleges-turn-to-industry-partnerships-to-boost-youth-employability)

He disclosed that about 26,000 students who qualified for university admission in the previous year chose to enrol in TVET institutions. He also cited ongoing renovation works at Kipchoge Keino Stadium as an example of how technical training can translate into practical contributions to infrastructure development.

The government has been pushing for closer cooperation between training institutions and employers so that graduates have competencies that respond to changing economic needs. The approach also emphasises involving industry in training, innovation and the development of skills that can support productivity and job creation.

Eldoret National Polytechnic Chief Principal Dr Charles Koech said the conference brought together research, innovation and practical learning through a hackathon, an innovation challenge and exhibitions showcasing best practices in agricultural extension services. 

He said the institution had organised activities to connect farmers with agricultural extension services, and that the conference also gave researchers, students and innovators a platform to exchange ideas.

Koech expressed optimism that the initiatives would improve training and give learners opportunities to apply their knowledge to real-life challenges.

The conference brings together researchers, industry representatives, innovators and other stakeholders to explore ways of advancing skills development and innovation.