Strengthening Technical and Vocational Education in Nakuru County

Strategic Insights -

The County Government of Nakuru is revamping Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to support the transition to the new Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET) policy. This shift aims to tackle youth unemployment by equipping learners with relevant and market-driven skills, said Ms Zipporah Wambui, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, ICT, and e-government. The focus on TVETs is crucial in providing graduates with practical skills needed in the country's evolving job market.

Key Takeaways:

  • The County Government of Nakuru is prioritizing TVETs to address youth unemployment and equipping learners with relevant and market-driven skills.
  • The emphasis on technical education marks a shift towards competency-based learning, reinforcing its role in national development under Vision 2030.
  • TVETs are essential in ensuring that graduates acquire the practical skills needed in the country's evolving job market.
  • The County government is working with the national government and other stakeholders to strengthen technical and vocational education, focusing on practical training that enhances the county's capacity to offer training services.
  • The Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) aims to accelerate economic growth by investing in critical pillars that create employment for millions of skilled youths.
  • Governor Kihika has committed to working out public-private partnerships to boost investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, to increase enrolment in TVETS and polytechnics.
  • The national and County governments have invested heavily in TVET infrastructure to stimulate economic growth and equity in the country.
  • There is a growing need for students to pursue technical education in light of the rising number of high school graduates.
  • The country is facing a shortage of skilled technicians, and students are urged to explore technical fields critical to shaping Kenya's healthcare and economic future.
  • The County administrtion is focusing on strengthening the ties between vocational training and industry needs to address the critical issue of youth employability.
  • The devolved unit's administration is championing for a dual Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) program that combines theoretical classroom instruction with practical workplace training.

Statistics:

  • The County of Nakuru has 24 youth polytechnics spread across the 11 sub counties.
  • There are two accredited public TVET institutions in the county, the Dairy Training Institute in Naivasha and the Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology in Njoro.
  • The Technical Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) has accredited a total of 20 TVET institutions in the county, consisting of two public and 18 private institutions.
  • The National Government has rolled out new technical and vocational courses as part of the Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET) policy framework.

Sources:

  • Kenya News Agency, 15 May 2025
  • Technical Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA)