Principal Secretary for TVET Dr. Esther Muoria has urged technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions to shift their focus from mere enrollment and graduation to equipping students with industry-relevant skills that enable self-employment and economic independence. Speaking at the inaugural graduation ceremony of Kaelo Technical and Vocational College (TVC), Muoria stressed that training programs must be designed with clear objectives to ensure graduates can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the national economy.
Muoria highlighted the importance of aligning curricula with industry needs, stating that institutions must first identify market demands before developing training modules. “We cannot continue doing things the same way for years and expect different results,” she said, emphasizing the government’s push for intentional, outcome-driven education. She challenged TVET principals to maximize the use of workshop equipment to generate income while training learners, citing examples like producing hinges and hardware for affordable housing projects as potential revenue streams.
The government has allocated Sh13 billion in additional equipment to TVET institutions nationwide, a move Muoria described as critical to modernizing training facilities. She also encouraged research into practical solutions using locally available materials, such as using sisal for hair extensions, to foster innovation. “Get a real problem to solve, research it, and deliver a solution,” she urged, stressing that the goal is not just to produce graduates but to ensure they have viable career paths.
Muoria announced that a dedicated TVET recruitment team had already secured 37 Kaelo TVC graduates employment opportunities abroad, with partnerships like the one with Consolidated Bank of Kenya facilitating financing for young people seeking international employment. She emphasized the need for TVET institutions to adopt a “training from industry, with industry, and for industry” approach to ensure graduates remain competitive in the job market.
Kaelo TVC Principal Joseph Kimathi outlined the institution’s expansion plans, including admitting 800 new students for the September intake and aiming to reach 3,000 trainees by 2027. The college has commissioned a community garage in Laare and plans another in Maua to extend technical services. Kimathi reiterated the institution’s commitment to quality training, including recognition of prior learning (RPL) to validate existing skills.
Igembe North MP Julius Taitumu praised Kaelo TVC’s progress, urging parents to view TVET qualifications as pathways to entrepreneurship rather than just employment. He criticized the politicization of the institution and called for community support to ensure equipment and resources are utilized productively. “Idle equipment is a wasted opportunity,” he said, stressing the need for collaboration to strengthen technical education in the region.
Graduates were encouraged to return for further training as needed, with Muoria stating, “We are prepared to upskill you.” Kimathi urged them to leverage their skills to create enterprises and drive community development, while Taitumu emphasized collective responsibility in advancing technical training. The ceremony underscored the transformative potential of TVET in addressing Kenya’s youth unemployment crisis and fostering economic resilience.